What running shoes should I buy as a beginner?

Buy a pair of Brooks Ghost 17 ($140-150) as your first running shoe. It's the most consistently recommended beginner shoe across Runner's World, Fleet Feet, and Prevention.

Avoid minimalist or barefoot-style shoes (low cushioning, zero or low heel-to-toe drop) as your first running shoes. Stick with conventional neutral trainers until you have at least 6-12 months of consistent running experience.

Once you're running regularly, buy a second pair of running shoes (different model or brand) and alternate between them on different days.

Track your shoe mileage and replace running shoes every 300-500 miles, even if they look fine on the outside. Midsole cushioning breaks down before the outsole shows visible wear.

Try on 3-5 pairs of running shoes and pick the ones that feel most comfortable rather than relying on in-store gait analysis or pronation assessments to dictate your choice.

Consider the Hoka Clifton 10 ($140-150) if you want the most cushioned ride available. Its thick EVA foam stack absorbs impact exceptionally well while remaining surprisingly lightweight.