7 Best Running Shoes for Running on the Beach- Ultimate Guide

7 Best Running Shoes for Running on the Beach – 2023 Ultimate Guide

Running on the Beach is a challenge, and the best way to tackle the variation of soft sand, wet sand, and divots is to get your feet in some running shoes designed for the Beach and similar terrain. Traction is a massive key to beach running shoes to gain momentum and have a chance to build up speed. When running on the Beach, I want to wear a pair of shoes with moderate to minimal cushioning that is also breathable and lightweight. This ensures that my feet don’t overheat in the hot sand and that my steps stay light when traversing the terrain.

Durability is also a key factor when selecting shoes for Beach running – they should be able to handle wet sand, dry sand, and any divots without wearing down. So next time you hit up your favorite Beach running spot, ensure you have the proper footwear!

My guide offers insight into the top picks for the nine best beach running shoes. These options are top of their class and provide good Beach, desert, and trail running support. Thanks for reading!

What are the BEST Beach Running Shoes in 2023

Every runner has unique running shoe requirements depending on experience and preferences. From a previous California native to Southern Utah Desert rat, I have lots of experience in soft sand and trail running; I can’t wait to share my top picks, so let’s get into the review!

SKIP TO INDIVIDUAL SHOE REVIEW

• Adidas: Terrex Speed Ultra Trail Running Shoes
• ENDORPHIN SPEED 2
• SENSE RIDE 4
• Altra: Superior 5
• Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX
• Hoka Zinal
• Brooks: Cascadia 16

#1 Adidas: Terrex Speed Ultra Trail Running Shoes

The top pick for Best Beach running shoes, but they can handle all terrain

Review:

These trail shoes are highly reviewed for good reason. Tom Evans, a British Pro Ultra runner, teamed up with Adidas to design these shoes. These lightweight Beach running shoes deliver traction with an outsole inspired by gravel bikes and comfort with midsole cushioning. They also provide a high-energy return—perfect shoes for running on soft sand because they are equipped for drainage and added breathability.

PROS:

• Co-created with elite runner
• BOOST midsole and Lightstrike cushioning: lightweight feel
• breathable
• drainage

CONS:

• Slightly Narrow
• It runs small, according to some reviews

SPECS

• Weight: 8.6 ounces
• Continental™ Rubber outsole
• Mesh upper with abrasion-resistant weldings

#2 Saucony: WOMEN’S PEREGRINE 12 ST

Alternate Views

Review: The lightweight but high-traction shoes you need for Beach running. Arm yourself against the elements with Peregrine 12 ST: dig-deep traction and a nimble ride that won’t back down. Conquer wet, wild terrain, knowing you have everything it takes to make it through whatever Mother Nature throws at you.

PROS:

• PWRRUN+ cushioned sockliner
• deep and wide outsole lugs
• Protective rock plate
• Debris-resistant upper and enclosed mesh to keep wet sand or mud out
• Speed laces to make quick adjustments

CONS:

• Speed laces are less familiar to some runners
• some reviews say they are hard to put in

SPECS

• Category: Trail Running Shoes
• Heel-to-toe Offset: 4mm (26.5mm heel/22.5mm forefoot)
• Weight: Women’s 8.7 oz (246g)
• Trail outsole lug height: 6.5mm

#3 Salomon: Sense Ride 4

Review:

Salomon Sense Ride 4 is an ideal shoe for running on the Beach due to its advanced design features. They offer standard cushioning and ProFeel Film, protecting sharp objects like rocks. The boots are versatile and make running more enjoyable with extra support and stability when traversing uneven beach terrain. With the lightweight construction and rugged soles, you can be sure your feet will stay comfortable no matter how far or hard you run on the Beach. Salomon Sense Ride 4 could be the perfect partner if you’re looking to enjoy a hassle-free run on the sand while keeping your feet safe and protected.

PROS:

• Contagrip outsole and ProFeel Film provide protection
• support and stability
• tough, reliable soles

CONS:

• less breathable

SPECS:

• Outsole: Rubber
• Drop: 8mm
• Lug Depth: 4mm
• Weight: 8.2 oz (235 g

#4 Altra: Superior 5

Review:

A great shoe for running on the Beach is this offering by Altra. Best for running races on the Beach, sand, or trails. This shoe can also handle long miles. The Altra Superior 5 offers speed, versatility, and grip. With multi-directional lug patterns and a removable StoneGaurd, this shoe can be your running companion on any beach or trail.

PROS:

• Outsole: MaxTrac: Traction
• Multi-directional Lug pattern: more traction support
• Speed and long miles

CONS

• runs slim and small
• less cushioning

SPECS:

• Weight: 7.5 oz / 215 g
• Stack Height: 21mm
• Drop: 0mm
• Standard Fit

#5 Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX

Review:

Experience the wildest trails even in wet weather with Nike Pegasus Trail 3 GORE-TEX. With its cushiony comfort, superior traction, and snug midfoot construction that gives you a secure, supportive fit – nothing can hold you back! Test yourself against Mother Nature’s fury when wearing this waterproof upper design to keep your feet dry no matter what conditions come up on your journey off the beaten path. So don’t let rain stop play; lace them up for an unstoppable adventure today!

PROS:

• The GORE-TEX layer keeps water out
• Gaiter on the collar to keep dirt and sand out
• Fit band system through midfoot for support
• Rubber Outsole for excellent traction

CONS:

• suits wide feet better
• the waterproof layer is still not perfected

SPECS:

• Pull the tab at the heel for easy on and off
• Offset: 9.5mm (Forefoot: 15mm, Heel: 24.5mm)

#6 Hoka Zinal

Review:

Conquer technical terrain with the confidence and agility of the Zinal! With its ‘gecko-like’ grip, this responsive trail runner is designed for shorter distances. Crafted from recycled yarn to create a stripped-back mesh upper with a gusset tongue to keep out debris, it’s equipped with PROFLY™ dual-density midsole providing ultralight foam comfort on top and rubberized EVA cushioning below. Finished off with Vibram® Megagrip Litebase construction outsole ensuring optimal traction while maintaining minimal weight – you have the perfect ally in traversing those winding trails!

PROS:

• Lightweight mesh upper
• Profile Midsole for support
• Max grip outsole

SPECS

• Toe Bumper for protection
• Recycled Materials
• Vegan
• Weight: 8.5 oz
• Heel Toe drop: 5.00 mm
• Stability: Neutral
• Cushion: Responsive

#7 Brooks: Cascadia 16

REVIEW:

Conquer the trail confidently in this updated shoe designed to provide superior stability – even on uneven surfaces: Perfect for running on the Beach! A new Ballistic Rock Shield offers protection from debris and rocks, while vertical grooves grant side-to-side adaptability for every terrain. With more release grooves than ever, midsole construction is flexible and molds quickly to ground-level conditions, along with TrailTack rubber outsoles granting reliable wet/dry traction combined Gaiter tab at the heel ensures extra security during your run or hike!

PROS:

• DNA LOFT v2 midsole makes the Cascadia 16 cushioning 5% softer and 20% lighter than the Cascadia 15. 
• DNA LOFT v2 midsole is super soft yet durable
• drainage ports
• All-terrain; light trails, sand, mountains, ultra trails
• Adaptability
• Universal fit

CONS:

• stiff

SPECS:

• Experience: Cushion
• Speed: Energize
• Midsole drop: 8mm (additional 2 mm from version 15)
• Weight: 9.5 oz/ 269.3 g

Beach Running FAQs

Should I Run Barefoot on the Beach?

Running barefoot on the Beach can provide a meditative experience that lets you connect with nature. Still, knowing all the variations in any sand dune is essential. Whether jogging for fun or recovering from an intense workout, running without shoes can be a rewarding way to enjoy your time by the shore. However, if you need quality miles and prefer to race on the Beach or sand, footwear should be worn to protect your feet from any rocks or unexpected terrain shifts. Simple and mindful is always best when enjoying a run near the ocean.