Running Shoes

I have a pair of asics, I bought them this summer when I was doing C25K and I love them!

I have Nike Free Runners from Lady Foot Locker-super light weight and super flexible. I love them

Congrats on the 5k goal! If you have a running specialty store nearby, ask for their help. The right pair of shoes will make a huge difference in your comfort & lack of injuries. Running shoes can run the gamut in cost, but most running stores have sale items or closeouts. Our local one often has $100+ shoes for as low as $20. Tell them your budget & they should be able to steer you to the right shoe.

good luck!

The ones that fit the best. Period. End of conversation.

Go to the outlets since you'll get a little more shoe for the money there (typically). Also check out places like Kohls, TJ Maxx/Marshals, etc.

Places like Famous Footwear or DSW have A TON of shoes to pick from, and all the shoes/sizes are on the floor so you can try on as many as you like without needing someone to constantly run in the back ot get your size. Places like that are a great way to find a shoe that fits well before you go buy it online. Personally, I don't do that (buy online) if someone helps me, either takes the time to fit me or just runs back and forth getting me sizes in a bunch of different shoes.

I just bought a new pair of ASICS last night. My friend told me that she really loved hers and had no problems with them before. I had to buy a bew pair because I had Sketchers and my feet and shins were killing me.
Good luck on your sneaker search!

I run in Asics because that's what the military prescribed for my feet (I have high arches). However, if you have flat feet, the military says you should get New Balance.

Also, another good shoe for high arches is Mizuno, but they are a little more expensive, and I go through shoes quickly.

I know it is really tough to do this with a budget, but take the time to go to a running store in your area and get fitted for a good pair of shoes. By running store I do not mean a big box store or department store. Of all things when starting C25K, do NOT skimp on the shoes. Not every shoe works for every person. An ill fitting shoe can make you miserable and even result in an injury.

Right now, last year's shoes are on clearance so you can probably get a good pair in your price range. Or get fitted for a shoe, make a note of it, let them know you need to think about it then search online. I just picked up two more pairs of my shoes (Asics 2160) on clearance for about $40 each. They are usually $100. I am hoarding them.

I'm a Saucony fan myself. I do suggest that you pick up a pair specific to your foot and stride. You could end up with knee injuries if you don't. Running shoes are not something you want to just pick any old pair - it's important that you get a good pair.

try ebay after fitting in store...I get my saucony's there for half off and they're awesome

You should try them on but I have found that the NIKE are the best for me.

Saucony! Turns out my mom has the same pair and we didn't even know it! My good guy friend also runs in Sauconys. I tried out a lot of different types of shoes before I got my Sauconys. They were $50 at REI. Good luck and be sure to try out lots of shoes in the store before you pull the trigger!

I'm a New Balance fan as well. I've used Nike, but didn't like them as much. I would also suggest at least getting fitted at a running store. One near me has a treadmill and cameras hooked up to it that they use to analyze your running - see whether you pronate or supranate (sp?) and if you're heel striking or running on the balls of your feet.
They can at least recommend what brand/style of shoe that will work best for you.
Overall though, you need to try them on (take them for a spin around the store) and make sure they're comfortable for you.
Good luck with your training!

Asics are great shoes. Depends on your foot. When I was running I wore asics. Go to a store that specializes in running shoes. Talk to a shoe tech. Try on all the good brands and the tech will watch how you walk and can advise you. So much depends on your weight, weather you suppinate or pronate etc. If you can't afford what they have at the moment get the number and brand of shoe that fits you and feels the most confortable. Go online to see if you can get them for less. Just make sure that you can return them if they are not right. www.roadrunnerssports.com/ is a great sight. I buy all my shoes from them. Right now they are having a 56% sale on running shoes. Good luck. Just make sure the shoes fit well or you can end up with knee and hip problems. Oh, road runner will except returns and if I remember correctly they pay shipping.

Some of you are mentioning a running store, I'm not sure what you mean? Like foot locker?

Yes, or call runners world. They are great for help. Most people I ran with used runners world to buy their shoes. That being said there are other stores that specialize in running shoes. I don't know what is in your area. Good luck and keep training.