Home > Buyer's Guide

The best trainers in Canada under $150

We curated the best performance trainers under $150 to meet your 2024 running goals, while staying on budget

saucony shift 3

With most running brands releasing an array of new shoe models with higher price points to match, it’s become increasingly difficult to balance high-quality products with accessible price points. Thankfully, there are still models available that offer value without sacrificing performance. The only roadblock is finding them in a seemingly never-ending expanse of running shoe options. That’s why we’re here–to help you in your search for the highest-value models available in 2024, we’re compiled the best trainers under $150 to kick off the spring.

Best for easy recovery miles

A fan favourite from Brooks, the Ghost 15 offers runners an exceptionally comfortable high-drop daily trainer made to handle everything from long runs to tempo sessions. Those who have enjoyed previous iterations of the Brooks Ghost will appreciate its familiarly comfortable upper and smooth ride.

Constructed to be slightly heavier than its previous model–the Ghost 14–Brooks delivered a firmer ride which, contrary to expectation, feels far more responsive as you pick up the pace. If you’re looking for a cushioned, comfortable and high-value neutral trainer to log heavy mileage, the Ghost 15 is the perfect choice.

Best for runners who want a comfy high-cushion trainer
Shift 3

Saucony Endorphin Shift 3

Add product description here.

The Saucony Shift series prioritizes stability over responsiveness, with a stiffer forefoot midsole giving way to a softer heel. The Shift 3 also features a more aggressive rocker stacked with PWRRUN cushioning, helping you to pick up the pace when needed while maintaining good comfort and cushioning.

Best grippy outsole

Like most Saucony models, the Axon 3 stays incredibly consistent with previous iterations. For most, the Axon 2 was a nearly perfect shoe and, thankfully, Saucony stayed true to its best attributes. It features an exceptionally bouncy PWRRUN material throughout the midsole, an aggressive “rocker” design and an improved outsole to elevate the bounciness. The re-imagined carbon rubber outsole also acts as a catalyst for grippier performance in wet or icy conditions.

Best for runners seeking a supportive ride
New Balance has remained one of the few running brands that consistently offers lower-budget alternatives. However, of all its price-conscious models, the 680 is the only model that has consistently remained a viable option for avid runners year-to-year. A neutral shoe with an emphasis on creating a smooth ride, the V7 has been updated with a dual-density Fresh Foam and EVA midsole to deliver supportive, cushioned rides for daily runs.
 
Most stylish
Under Armour HOVR™ Sonic 6

Under Armour HOVR™ Sonic 6

Undoubtedly one of the most stylish options for a daily trainer at an affordable price, Under Armour’s HOVR Sonic 6 is the brand’s most versatile daily trainer when it comes to performance. Combining soft HOVR foam with an EVA midsole to ensure the shoe doesn’t lose its integrity, the Sonic 6 prioritizes durability and comfort to maximize its value. When it comes to the upper, Under Armour’s penchant for comfortable fabric once again shines, as the seamless design ensures no ridges or extra weight interrupt your runs.

Best versatile trainer that can pick up the pace

Fit with a slightly narrower forefoot than usually found in a New Balance trainer, the Fresh Foam X Tempo v2 feels as sleek as the silhouette would suggest. As one of the quickest and most versatile shoes at this price point, it’s a trainer made to complement almost any runner, from those logging slow recovery miles to those stacking speedwork sessions on the track. For those who want to deviate from the trend of maximalist shoes with large stacks of foam to a lighter option, the Fresh Foam X Tempo v2 is one of the few shoes to offer minimalism and performance at any price point.

Most durable
The Winflo 9 Shield offers exceptional value for a weatherized road running shoe. Typically, the materials used for weatherproofing performance shoes jack up the price of the shoe, but Nike’s Air Winflo 9 Shield delivers the durability and dependability required to brave the elements without the inaccessible price point. Nike’s EA water-repellent finish and gussetted tongue work to help keep your feet dry while tire-like traction and full-length Air units provide grip and soft cushioning when conditions get slick. During an unpredictably rainy time of year, adding this cost-friendly weatherproof trainer to your rotation can keep you on the roads no matter the conditions.
 
Most responsive lightweight trainer

A key component to finding a “high-value” trainer is ensuring that–aside from just a modest price point–the shoe offers the requisite durability. Luckily, Reebok’s Floatride Energy 5 delivers no shortage of resilience. Featuring a sturdy outsole and a firm midsole to match, the Floatride Energy 5 is best used in moderate-to-easy miles. The stability of the midsole design stands out, allowing you to navigate sharp turns with ease.

Products reviewed in this article:

Best for easy recovery miles

Brooks Ghost 15

Brooks Ghost 15

Buy Now - Men's $143.99 (20% OFF)

Buy Now - Women's $143.99 (20% OFF)

Best for runners who want a comfy high-cushion trainer

Saucony Endorphin Shift 3

Shift 3

Buy Now - Men's $141.97 (25% OFF)

Buy Now - Women's $105.97 (20% OFF)

Best grippy outsole

Saucony Axon 3

Saucony Axon 3

Buy Now - Men's $139.99

Buy Now - Women's $139.99

Best for runners seeking a supportive ride

New Balance 680 v7

New Balance 680 V7

Buy Now - Men's $119.99

Buy Now - Women's $119.99

Most stylish

Under Armour HOVR™ Sonic 6

Under Armour HOVR™ Sonic 6

Buy Now - Men's $130

Buy Now - Women's $130

Best versatile trainer that can pick up the pace

New Balance Fresh Foam X Tempo v2

New Balance Fresh Foam X Tempo v2

Buy Now - Men's $111.97 (25% OFF)

Buy Now - Women's - $149.99

Most durable

Nike Air Winflo 9 Shield

Nike Air Winflo 9 Shield

Buy Now - Men's $149.99

Buy Now - Women's $149.99

Most responsive lightweight trainer

Reebok Floatride Energy 5

Reebok Floatride Energy 5

Buy Now - Men's $139.99

Buy Now - Women's $139.99

Check out the latest buyer's guide:

Best trail running gear for spring 2024

Explore our favourite trail running gear for short trips and longer treks, from watches to gaiters