In this product guide:
How we selected
For this guide, we applied a strict below-$100 retail price to filter our recommendations. A more effective way to find affordable New Balance running shoes is to wait for seasonal sales, where a $130 or $140 model can often be purchased for under $100. With some patience, popular trainers such as the New Balance Rebel, 880, 860, and even the 1080 can be found for under $100 at both online and offline stores – including brand factory outlets, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls.
If you prefer waiting for sales to pick up an older colorway or version of a mid-range trainer at a lower price, then this buyer’s guide isn’t for you. We also recommend exploring other brands such as adidas and Nike for lower-priced trainers, as they offer better for money under $100. We used the following criteria for our picks:
- The full retail price should be under $100.
- Sufficient ride comfort for low-intensity runs.
- Decent outsole coverage for grip and durability.
- Preferably sold in additional widths.
- Easily available, online and in-store.
Each pick combines our own wear-test data with real-world observations of how these shoes perform on runners of all sizes, paces, and footstrike patterns.
Why it works (the basics)
- Fresh Foam midsole → functional everyday comfort.
- Forefoot + heel outsole → dependable grip and durability.
- Dense Pwrrun+ E-TPU → supports heavier runners.
- Mesh upper → increases ventilation.
- Heel and tongue padding → secure, comfortable fit.
- Optional 2E, 4E widths → accommodates wide feet.
🔍 Deep Dive
The Arishi V4 is not a high-performance running shoe. It’s built with basic materials, and its Fresh Foam EVA midsole and simple mesh upper result in a flat ride when compared to models like the Rebel or 880. It suffices for short, easy runs but doesn’t offer the cushioning comfort or refinement of higher-tier trainers.
Additional insights
- Firm cushioning; feels unlike typical Fresh Foam.
- Upper durability is poor (see images below) under rugged use.
- CM-EVA hardens in below-freezing temperatures.
- GTX version costs $20 more.
- Gum outsole can be squeaky.
Fit Notes
Runs small; buy a half size up. Narrow fit – 2E wears like a regular width.
Gallery
Also consider:
- Nike Revolution 8 = higher versatility.
- Nike Downshifter 13 = better outsole grip.
- Brooks Anthem 7 = softer cushioning.
Specs
- Drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 9.5 oz/268 gms
- Widths: Regular, wide, extra-wide
- Midsole: Firm CM-EVA foam
- Outsole: Gum rubber
- Insole: Removable.
Why it works (the basics)
- Fresh Foam midsole → comfort for daily runs.
- Articulated outsole → grip without added stiffness.
- Exposed under-heel foam → softer heel landings.
- Mesh upper with padded lining → Secure, comfortable fit.
- 8 mm drop → beginner-friendly and gentle on the Achilles.
🔍 Deep Dive
The 680 shares the general character with the 880 but is built to a lower price point. It handles short, everyday runs at easy paces (above 5:30 min/km or 8:50 min/mile) but lacks the cushioning depth needed for longer distances. The trade-offs are expected at this price tier, and runners looking for more protection may prefer stepping up to the 880 or Rebel.
Additional insights
- “80” series denotes neutral cushioning.
- Fresh Foam here is less stable than in the 880.
- Midsole heel shows wear sooner than the forefoot.
Fit Notes
True to size but slightly narrow. Basic heel and tongue padding; ventilation is decent.
Also consider:
- Nike Downshifter 13 = better outsole grip.
- adidas Questar 3 = higher stability and comfort.
- Asics Contend 9 = more durable upper.
Specs
- Drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 9.5 oz/268 gms (W)
- Widths: Regular, wide, extra-wide
- Midsole: Fresh Foam EVA foam.
- Insole: Removable.
Why it works (the basics)
- EVA foam midsole → provides stability and basic comfort.
- Articulated outsole → maintains on-road flexibility.
- Off-road outsole geometry → delivers grip on dirt and gravel.
- Toe-protect bumper → adds abrasion resistance.
- Hiking laces, midfoot strap → enables quick, secure lacing.
🔍 Deep Dive
The Dynasoft Nitrel V6 combines a rugged outsole, EVA foam cushioning, and an abrasion-resistant upper to deliver an entry-level road-to-trail performance. Its feature set suits light hikes, short-distance road and park runs, but the basic tech package makes it unsuitable for technical trails or longer efforts. It’s a practical option for mixed terrain at slower paces, not a dedicated trail-running trainer.
Additional insights
- Uses basic EVA, not Fresh Foam.
- Requires a short break-in period.
- Last eyelet supports a heel-lock lacing loop.
- GTX version adds $20.
Fit Notes
Runs half a size large and slightly narrow. Breathability is average.
Also consider:
- adidas Tracefinder trail = better grip and durability.
- Asics Venture 10 = for ground feel.
- Saucony Excursion TR17 = more stable ride.
Specs
- Drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 10.4 oz/294 gms
- Widths: Regular, wide, extra-wide
- Midsole: EVA foam.
- Insole: Removable.
Why it works (the basics)
- Dynasoft EVA midsole → firm cushioning for walks and short runs.
- Large outsole coverage → grip and stability on varied surfaces.
- Fused overlays → increases upper durability.
- Spacer mesh and foam padding → secure overall fit.
🔍 Deep Dive
Available only in women’s sizing, the CTLYST is a general-purpose trainer for walks, short runs, and low-intensity gym sessions. Its wide forefoot adds stability when in the gym, while the firm EVA midsole provides supportive cushioning for treadmill and short road runs. The platform prioritizes stability over softness, making it better suited for low-impact use than longer running efforts.
Additional insights
- Flat outsole geometry is based on training-shoe designs.
Fit Notes
Runs short and narrow due to the layered upper. Breathability is average.
Also consider:
- Nike Journey Run = softer ride, plusher fit.
- Nike Uplift SC = better value for money.
- Asics Excite 11 = more running-focused.
Specs
- Weight: 7.7 oz/218 gms (W)
- Widths: Regular
- Midsole: Dynasoft EVA foam.
- Insole: Removable.