9 Best Beach Running Shoes in 2024
Reviewed by: Ernesto Mendez (Orthopedic Clinical Specialist)
When it comes to shoes to run on the beach, you need a pair that can handle the unique challenges of sandy surfaces. That’s why we’ve handpicked the best beach running shoes for you. Whether you prefer long, leisurely jogs or intense sprints, our selection of top-rated beach running shoes will keep you comfortable and secure, enabling you to fully enjoy your beachside running experience.
In a HURRY? Skip to Our Pick
The Brooks Men’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe features an open-engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit Print technology. This innovative design provides strategic stretch and structure to the upper, ensuring a personalized fit that adapts to your foot.
Top 9 Best Beach Running Shoes Reviewed
- Brooks Men’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe – Top Pick
- HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Running Shoes – Best For Women
- Nike Women’s Jogging Cross Country Running Shoe – Best Cross Country Running Shoes
- ASICS Men’s GT-1000 10 Running Shoes – Best Shoes on a Budget
- New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe – Best For Trail Running
- Saucony Men’s Endorphin Shift – Best Cushioning
- Vibram Men’s Five Fingers – Best Sand Running Shoes With XS TREK Sole
- Adidas Men’s Ultraboost-21 Running Shoes – Best Color Diversity
- New Balance Men’s Minimus Tr V1 Cross Trainer – Best For Cross-Training
| Product | Average Score | Comfort | Breathability | Stability | Cushioning | Durability | Value for Money |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brooks Ghost 14 Neutral | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.8 | 4.9 |
| HOKA ONE ONE | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.3 |
| Nike Jogging Country Shoe | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.4 |
| ASICS GT-1000 10 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.8 |
| New Balance X Hierro V7 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 5.0 | 4.6 | 4.5 |
| Saucony Endorphin Shift | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 5/0 | 4.6 | 4.3 |
| Vibram Five Fingers | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.7 | 4.5 |
| Adidas Ultraboost-21 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.3 |
| New Balance Tr V1 Cross Trainer | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.8 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.5 |
1. Brooks Men’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe
Top Pick
Brooks Men’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe
With an open-engineered air mesh upper the Brooks Men’s Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe is a great option for your outdoor endeavors.
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The Brooks Men's Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe features an open-engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit Print technology. This innovative design provides strategic stretch and structure to the upper, ensuring a personalized fit that adapts to your foot.
What sets the Ghost 14 apart is its enhanced cushioning system. Combining Brooks' signature DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA technologies, these shoes offer incredibly soft and gender-friendly cushioning that extends beyond the heel.
- Brand: Brooks
- Material: Open-engineered air mesh upper
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outsole (tread feature): Soft-blown rubber with flex grooves
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: Black, white, gray + 30 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for men
- Waterproof: No
- Weight (one shoe): 9.9 ounces
- Special features: DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA cushioning
- Size: From 7 to 15
- Type: Neutral running shoes
What we like:
- Open-engineered air mesh upper with 3D Fit Print technology.
- Enhanced cushioning with DNA LOFT and BioMoGo DNA technologies.
- Optimal support with a soft-blown rubber outsole.
Could be better:
- Some users may find the 12 mm differential to be too high.
2. HOKA ONE ONE Women's Running Shoes
Best For Women
HOKA ONE ONE Women's Running Shoes
The HOKA ONE ONE Women's Running Shoes showcase a synthetic upper that provides breathability and durability.
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The HOKA ONE ONE Women's Running Shoes are definitely one of the best shoes for beach running. Crafted with a rubber sole, these running shoes provide exceptional durability and traction on various surfaces. The textile lining ensures a soft and cozy feel, while the synthetic outsole offers enhanced stability and support.
The textile and synthetic upper combines breathability and durability for long-lasting wear. Designed with a low top and an extended pull tab, these shoes offer easy on and off, allowing you to hit the ground running in no time.
- Brand: HOKA ONE ONE
- Material: Textile and synthetic upper
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outsole: Flexible traction outsole
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: Black, cantaloupe, summer song + 3 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for women
- Waterproof: No
- Weight (one shoe): 7.2 ounces
- Special features: Shock-absorbing lightweight midsole
- Size: From 6 to 12
- Type: Running shoes
What we like:
- Superior durability and traction for long-lasting performance.
- Engineered breathable mesh keeps feet cool and dry.
- Cushioned footbed provides excellent underfoot support.
Could be better:
- Not suitable for extreme weather conditions.
3. Nike Women's Jogging Cross Country Running Shoe
Best Cross Country Running Shoes
Nike Women's Jogging Cross Country Running Shoe
The Nike Women's Jogging Cross Country Running Shoe features the new Nike Flyknit technology that provides you with a comfort fit.
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Introducing the Nike Women's Jogging Cross Country Running Shoe, a remarkable companion for your running endeavors. Constructed with 100% synthetic materials, these shoes are built to last, providing durability and resilience throughout your running adventures.
The rubber sole offers excellent traction, ensuring a secure grip on various types of terrain. One of the standout features of this shoe is the Nike Flyknit upper technology. This innovative technology delivers a lightweight and breathable feel for your feet.
- Brand: Nike
- Material: 100% synthetic
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outsole (tread feature): Provides excellent traction
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: Black, white, multi + 13 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for women
- Waterproof: No
- Weight (one shoe): 10 ounces
- Special features: Nike Flyknit upper technology
- Size: From 5 to 12.5
- Type: Cross-country running shoes
What we like:
- Innovative Nike Flyknit upper technology for a personalized fit.
- Optimal cushioning reduces the impact on your feet and joints.
- Durable 100% synthetic construction ensures longevity.
Could be better:
- Synthetic materials limit breathability.
4. ASICS men's GT-1000 10 Running Shoes
Best Shoes On A Budget
ASICS men's GT-1000 10 Running Shoes
With the new FLYTEFOAM technology, the ASICS Men's GT-1000 10 Running Shoes are great at cushioning your feet.
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Step into a world of comfort and performance with the ASICS Men's GT-1000 10 Running Shoes. Constructed with a synthetic and mesh upper, these shoes boast excellent breathability, allowing your feet to stay cool and dry even during intense workouts.
Experience lightweight cushioning like never before with FLYTEFOAM Technology. This innovative feature provides exceptional cushioning, ensuring a responsive and comfortable stride throughout your run.
- Brand: ASICS
- Material: Synthetic and mesh
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outsole (tread feature): AHAR Plus Outsole
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: Soft sky, French blue, white + 7 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for men
- Waterproof: No
- Weight (one shoe): 9.8 ounces
- Special features: FLYTEFOAM Technology for lightweight cushioning
- Size: From 7 to 14
- Type: Running shoes
What we like:
- Lightweight cushioning provided by FLYTEFOAM Technology.
- Rearfoot GEL technology attenuates shock for a smooth transition.
- DuoMax Support System enhances support and stability.
Could be better:
- May run slightly narrow for those with wider feet.
5. New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe
Best For Trail Running
New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe
The Vibram Megagrip outsole in the New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe provides exceptional traction even on wet surfaces.
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The New Balance Men's Fresh Foam X Hierro V7 Trail Running Shoe combines innovative features to deliver optimal performance. The 8 mm drop, while approximate due to manufacturing variances, ensures a balanced stride and a smooth transition from heel to toe.
The Fresh Foam X midsole takes comfort to the next level, providing an unparalleled cushioning experience. Its plush composition not only absorbs impact, but also offers excellent responsiveness, allowing you to maintain a steady pace and push your limits further.
- Brand: New Balance
- Material: Synthetic and mesh upper
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outsole (tread feature): Vibram Megagrip
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: black, jade, truffle + 15 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for men
- Waterproof: Yes
- Weight (one shoe): 11.2 ounces
- Special features: Fresh Foam X midsole
- Size: From 7 to 17
- Type: Trail running shoe
What we like:
- Superior grip and traction with Vibram Megagrip outsole.
- Fresh Foam X midsole offers exceptional comfort.
- Breathable yet protected construction for a sleek fit.
Could be better:
- The 8 mm drop may not be suitable for some individuals.
6. Saucony men's Endorphin Shift
Best Cushioning
Made up of synthetic and mesh construction the Saucony Men's Endorphin Shift are not only light but also breathable for longer runs.
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Elevate your running experience with the Saucony Men's Endorphin Shift. Featuring synthetic and mesh construction, these sand running shoes are made with quality materials that ensure durability and breathability.
One of the standout features of the Endorphin Shift is its revolutionary SPEEDROLL Technology. This innovative technology propels you forward with a continuous feeling of momentum, enabling you to run faster and more efficiently.
- Brand: Saucony
- Material: Synthetic and mesh
- Sole material: Ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA)
- Outsole (tread feature): XT-900 with reinforced high-abrasion zones
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: Vizi orange, brick red, future black + 2 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for men
- Waterproof: No
- Weight (one shoe): 10.1 ounces
- Special features: SPEEDROLL Technology
- Size: From 9 to 15
- Type: Running shoes
What we like:
- Engineered sandwich-mesh upper keeps the shoe light.
- XT-900 outsole with reinforced high-abrasion zones.
- 4mm offset promotes a natural and efficient stride.
Could be better:
- Limited color options.
- Some users may find the 4mm offset uncomfortable.
7. Vibram Men's Five Fingers
Best Sand Running Shoes With XS TREK Sole
The Vibram Men's Five Fingers KSO EVO Cross-Training Shoes offer a state of the art Vibram sole that provides great traction on your runs.
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The Vibram Men's Five Fingers KSO EVO Cross-Training Shoes are crafted with a textile upper and offer a lightweight and breathable feel. The Vibram sole provides excellent traction and stability, making it suitable for a wide range of activities.
One standout feature of the KSO EVO Cross-Training Shoes is the XS TREK sole. This technical compound delivers outstanding flexibility and wet traction, allowing you to tackle various types of terrain with ease.
- Brand: Vibram
- Material: Textile (polyester mesh material)
- Sole material: Vibram XS Trek compound
- Outsole (tread feature): Provides excellent traction
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: black, blue, gray + 7 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for men
- Waterproof: No
- Weight (one shoe): 4.9 ounces
- Special features: Serrated blade lug design
- Size: From 5.5 to 19
- Type: Cross-Training shoes
What we like:
- Lightweight and breathable design for maximum comfort.
- Vibram sole offers excellent ground feel and traction.
- Adjustable upper design for a personalized fit.
Could be better:
- Need special socks with separated toes.
- Limited cushioning, compared to traditional athletic shoes.
8. Adidas Men's Ultraboost-21 Running Shoes
Best Color Diversity
Adidas Men's Ultraboost-21 Running Shoes
The Stretchweb outsoles on the Adidas Men's Ultraboost-21 Running Shoes flex naturally for an energized ride.
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Introducing the Adidas Men's Ultraboost-21 Running Shoes, one of the best shoes for beach running. Crafted with a 100% textile synthetic upper, these shoes provide a sock-like fit that hugs your feet for optimal support and comfort. The Adidas Primeknit upper enhances breathability while adapting to the shape of your foot, giving you a customized feel with every stride.
Featuring a midfoot cage and heel counter, the Ultraboost-21 offers excellent stability and support during high-intensity runs. The Boost midsole (a hallmark of Adidas technology) delivers a responsive and cushioned ride, giving you the energy you need to push your limits.
- Brand: Adidas
- Material: 100% textile synthetics
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outsole (tread feature): Stretchweb outsole
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: Gray, white, black + 42 other options
- Gender: Specifically designed for women
- Waterproof: Yes
- Weight (one shoe): 12 ounces
- Special features: Made with Primeblue recycled material
- Size: From 4 to 15
- Type: Running shoes
What we like:
- Sock-like fit and Adidas Primeknit upper for optimal support.
- Midfoot cage and heel counter provide excellent stability.
- Boost midsole delivers a responsive and cushioned ride.
Could be better:
- The snug fit may not be suitable for those with wider feet.
- Some users may find the shoe a bit heavy.
9. New Balance Men's Minimus Tr V1 Cross Trainer
Best For Cross-Training
New Balance Men's Minimus Tr V1 Cross Trainer
The New Balance Men's Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer features a full rubber midsole that provides extra cushioning during your outdoor activities.
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The New Balance Men's Minimus TR V1 Cross Trainer is a versatile shoe that combines comfort, support, and durability. Made from 100% synthetic materials, these cross-trainers boast a lightweight mesh upper that promotes breathability, allowing for enhanced airflow and a fresh feel throughout your workout.
The midsole of the Minimus TR V1 features full rubber coverage, providing exceptional cushioning for enhanced comfort and support. With every step, you'll experience a stable base and impressive shock absorption, reducing the strain on your feet and joints.
- Brand: New Balance
- Material: 100% synthetic
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outsole (tread feature): Underfoot rubber
- Season: Suitable for all seasons
- Colors: Black, light aluminum, blaze orange
- Gender: Specifically designed for men
- Waterproof: No
- Weight (one shoe): 8.1 ounces
- Special features: TPU-infused design
- Size: From 7 to 15
- Type: Cross trainer shoe
What we like:
- Full rubber midsole provides cushioning for enhanced support.
- Underfoot rubber outsole offers unmatched traction.
- Minimus construction allows for a natural range of motion.
Could be better:
- Limited color options.
3 Benefits of Running on the Beach
Running on the beach offers a wide range of benefits that make it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts. Let's explore some of the key advantages of running on the beach:
1. Scenic and Relaxing Environment
The sight and sound of crashing waves and the soft sand beneath your feet create a serene and calming atmosphere. This scenic environment can help reduce stress, enhance your mood, and provide a refreshing change of scenery compared to running in urban or indoor settings.
2. Increased Calorie Burn
The soft, uneven sand creates an unstable surface that engages more muscles in your legs, particularly the calves, quadriceps, and glutes. As a result, your body works harder to stabilize itself, leading to greater calorie burn.
3. Strengthens Muscles and Joints
As you navigate the soft sand, your feet sink and your leg muscles work harder to push off, which helps to strengthen the muscles in your lower body, including the ankles, calves, and hamstrings.
3 tips How to Choose Shoes for Running on the Beach
The sandy terrain, water exposure, and changing surface conditions of beach running require specific features in running shoes. To help you make an informed decision, here are some tips on how to choose the right sand running shoes.
1. Consider the Outsole Design
When selecting shoes for running on the beach, pay close attention to the outsole design. Look for shoes with a patterned or multidirectional lug pattern on the sole. These patterns provide excellent traction on loose sand, allowing you to maintain stability and prevent slipping.
2. Look for Lightweight and Breathable Materials
Opt for shoes made from mesh or other breathable materials that allow air to circulate freely, keeping your feet cool and comfortable. Lightweight shoes will prevent you from feeling weighed down and conserve your energy for an enjoyable beach run.
3. Consider Cushioning and Support
Look for shoes with responsive midsoles that offer good shock absorption, reducing the strain on your joints. Well-cushioned shoes will provide added comfort and protect your feet from the impact of running on uneven sand.
Is There a Difference Between Running Shoes and Beach Running Shoes?
There is a notable difference between running shoes and beach running shoes. Running shoes are designed to provide support, cushioning, and stability for running on various surfaces, like roads, tracks, and trails. They are built to handle the impact forces generated while running on harder, more stable terrains. Hence, there are no shoes specifically designed for running on sand.
If you want to run on sand, you need to chose the shoes which are good for the uneven and shifting surface. To this category one may belong trail or cross country running shoes. They provide excellent cushioning and better suit for running on the beach.
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3 Tips for Running on the Beach
Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, here are some tips to help you make the most of your beach running experience:
1. Choose the Right Footwear
Decide if you want to run barefoot or wear shoes on the beach. Running without shoes is an option, as the sand provides a soft surface. However, if you prefer wearing shoes, choose lightweight and breathable ones with good grip.
2. Warm Up and Cool Down
Before hitting the beach, perform a dynamic warm-up to prepare your muscles for the workout. Focus on dynamic stretches, such as leg swings, walking lunges, and high knees. After your run, cool down with a light jog or gentle walk, followed by static stretches.
3. Watch Your Footing
Be mindful of your footing, as the soft and uneven surface can increase the risk of ankle sprains or other injuries. Pay attention to your form, engage your core, and lift your feet slightly higher to avoid tripping over small obstacles.
Soft Sand vs Hard Sand for Running
When it comes to running on sand, there are two main types to consider: soft sand and hard sand. Each type offers unique benefits and challenges for runners.
Soft sand running requires more effort, due to the lack of stability and the sinking feeling with each step. Running on soft sand engages more muscles, particularly in the lower body, as they work to stabilize and propel the body forward.
On the other hand, hard sand provides a more stable surface for running. It offers better traction and reduces the sinking sensation experienced on soft sand. Running on hard sand requires less effort than soft sand, as there is less resistance with each stride.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Beach Running Shoes
Should I start running on the beach?
Running on the beach can be a great workout and provide a nice change of scenery. However, it may be more challenging than running on a solid surface due to the uneven terrain.
Is it better to run in the sand in running shoes or barefoot?
It's generally recommended to run in running shoes while on the sand. Running shoes provide better support, cushioning, and protection against potential injuries from sharp objects or uneven surfaces.
Is running on the beach better for your joints?
Running on the beach can be easier on the joints than running on hard surfaces like concrete or pavement. The sand offers more cushioning and absorbs some impact, reducing stress on the joints.
Is running in the sand good for your feet?
Running in the sand can provide benefits for your feet. It can help strengthen the muscles in your feet and ankles due to the increased effort required for stability on the uneven surface.
Final Thoughts on Best Beach Running Shoes
In conclusion, the nine best beach running shoes of 2024 provide an ideal combination of durability, traction, and comfort. Designed specifically for beach terrain, these shoes offer exceptional performance and protection, allowing you to fully enjoy your runs by the shore. Invest in Brooks Men's Ghost 14 Neutral Running Shoe today and enhance your running experience, leaving behind any worries of discomfort or slipping. Have you used any before? Please, share your opinion in the comments.
Also read:
- Best Running Hats
- Best Running Arm Sleeves
- Best Running Headbands
- Running Twice a Day
- Is Running in Place Effective
- Sub 20 5K Training Plan
- Best Running Shoes for Bunions
References:
- Effect of beach running on cardiovascular endurance, leg strength and speed among college football players // IJPNPE: https://www.journalofsports.com/pdf/2018/vol3issue1/PartX/3-1-302-158.pdf
- Sand training: a review of current research and practical applications // Taylor & Francis: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/02640414.2013.805239
- Barefoot Running: Does It Prevent Injuries? // Springer: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-013-0093-2
- Effect of sand versus grass training surfaces during an 8-week pre-season conditioning programme in team sport athletes // Taylor & Francis: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02640414.2013.879333
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I love the very comfortable and modern Asics GT-1000 10 sand running shoes. They were tested by me for running on the beach, off-road, and on the road. Asics GT-1000 10 have good looks, cool cushioning, and a good price. I’ve been running in Reebok sneakers before, but this time I decided to try something new, and so far I’m happy with it.