We're getting to that time of year when you can't step out of the house without getting caught up in crowds of sweaty, lycra-clad individuals pounding the local pavements. Yes, race season is here, with the major Boston and London Marathons both taking place this month (20th and 26th respectively).

If these very public displays of fitness have inspired you to embark on your own running journey, but you aren't quite sure where to begin, the logical place is with your feet. We test dozens of pairs of the best running shoes each year, and below I've rounded up our top recommendations for beginners.

These are capable, comfortable, stable and affordable all-rounders that are ideal for helping you find your running groove — at whatever pace, and for whatever distance suits you. Once you've figured out what works for you, you might want to progress to something more specialized, but when you're just starting out it makes sense to opt for something general-use that won't break the bank.

Standouts are the Saucony Ride 19 and the Nike Pegasus series. Fitness Editor Matt Evans calls the Saucony Ride 19 "a reliable set of daily trainers and consistently good value", and says they'll fit the bill for your "average running enthusiast doing six-to-10 miles on a weekend". Meanwhile, our reviewer dubbed the Nike Pegasus 41 "a brilliant beginner shoe", praising the comfort and heel support in particular. Ready to find your first running shoes? On your marks, get set...

Brilliant running shoes for beginners

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