If you've put more than 300 to 500 miles on your athletic shoes, it's probably time for a replacement. And if you're ramping up training for a fall race, it's extra important to make sure that your sneakers are up to the challenge. After scouring the internet for secret sales, I'm here to report that right now is an especially great time to buy a new pair of running shoes — I'm seeing top-tested brands like Brooks, New Balance, and Hoka for up to 31% off.
As a former Division I track athlete and current marathoner, summer is one of my personal favorite (and most underrated) times to shop for sneakers. That's because most brands will mark down their best-selling models in spring and summer to get rid of old inventory and make room for new sneaker drops. Not to mention, Prime Day sales are right around the corner, so Amazon is ramping up its shoe sales right now.
Wondering which shoes are worth the investment? I created this list of the best running shoe deals using insights from the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab — where our experts assess factors like construction and support, and compile real-world feedback from consumer testers and staffers on comfort, fit, appearance and more.
Running shoes on sale this month:
Brooks Ghost Max 2
- Just under $100, the Brooks Ghost — which our editors named the best Brooks running shoe for everyday — is a stellar pick: its comfortable ride and middle-of-the-road cushioning make it a crowd-pleasing style for both walking and running. One of our consumer testers wore these shoes for over six hours and found that "their comfort while running will still keep me wearing them."
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
- The FuelCell Rebel is my personal everyday running shoe, and you can shop it for 21% off right now. Its responsive cushioning is quite bouncy, so I always feel like I have extra pep in my step, while its ridiculously lightweight design (5.9 oz, to be exact) keeps my feet from feeling clunky. I just bought my sixth pair of these sneakers last week while they were on sale — and you should too while they're still in stock in most sizes.
Brooks Ghost Max 2
- If you're looking for a little more cushioning for long runs (I'm looking at you, fall marathon and half-marathon runners!), opt for the Brooks Ghost Max 2. These chunky kicks offer thicker midsole cushioning to help absorb impact, while its subtle rocker shape is designed to help propel you forward with every step. As someone who typically hates a chunky workout shoe, these high-cushion sneakers are my go-to for long runs or long days on my feet.
Asics Gel-Kayano 31
- If you have low arches or flat feet, this sneaker might be for you. The Gel Kayano is one of our pros' top picks for flat feet since it's designed for overpronation — a common problem for those with low arches. On top of this design feature, the sneakers also have a mesh upper for breathability and gel cushioning in the rear for comfort. Our pros pointed out that they're equipped with a 4D guidance system that is meant to help provide more stability and balance between strides.
HOKA Arahi 7
- According to Grace Wu, GH Institute product reviews analyst, the Arahi 7 "helped correct my gait without feeling too stiff," — landing them a spot among our editors' favorite Hoka shoes. A great everyday trainer for anyone with arch issues, these chunky sneakers contain Hoka's "J-Frame technology," designed to prevent excessive inward rolling or overpronation.
Adidas Ultraboost 5X
- A previous version of the Adidas Ultraboost wowed our consumer testers with its “cloud-like” cushioning that supported them with each step, earning the shoes several accolades like our best treadmill running shoes and the best workout shoes for women. This upgraded "5X" model is over 2 ounces lighter than its predecessor while still boasting ample cushioning.
How to find the best running shoe for you:
According to Priya Parthasarathy, D.P.M., a podiatrist and partner at Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, not only can the right shoes decrease your risk of injury, they can also enhance your performance — while the wrong shoes may cause blisters, increased foot strain and knee, hip or back pain.
First, Emma Seymour, associate director of the GH Institute Textiles Lab suggests opting for running shoes with generous return policies so you can try the shoes on at home or on a treadmill to determine if they're comfortable for you. She also recommends keeping comfort top-of-mind; you should be able to wiggle your toes to ensure there’s enough room in the toe box — about half an inch. Keep in mind that feet tend to swell a bit as you walk or run, so don't be afraid to size up if needed.
Check out more of our favorite deals in June:
- I’ve Spent Years Covering Amazon Prime Day — Here Are the Early Deals Worth Shopping
- The Coveted Samsung Frame TV Is at Its Lowest Price Ever Ahead of Prime Day
- Amazon Prime Day Luggage Deals Just Landed
- 8 Expert-Tested Cookware Finds on Sale at Williams Sonoma This Month
Samantha is a lifestyle commerce editor at Hearst magazines, where she covers fashion, fitness gear, tech, and viral products. She has over six years of editorial experience, including writing, editing, and hands-on product testing for commerce stories—whether it be an in-depth running shoe review or a curation of the latest Prime Day deals. As an avid runner and former Division I athlete, Samantha has particular expertise in fitness gear, apparel, shoes, and tech. (In fact, when she’s not at her desk, she’s probably out for a run.)
You can find Samantha’s work in Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, House Beautiful, Country Living, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, PEOPLE, and more.
