Whether you’re training for a fall marathon, looking to upgrade your sneaker rotation with the latest styles, or in search of a trusty pair of walking shoes, I have good news: Labor Day weekend brings some of the steepest savings of the year on sneakers.
As a shopping editor who is obsessed with running and constantly tracks the latest sneaker trends, I’m always on the lookout for hidden shoe deals—and I’m already spotting noteworthy sales on top brands like Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and more.
Plus, since many brands unveil their latest sneaker lineups in the spring and fall, you can often find deals on last year's models as they try to get rid of old inventory. That includes plenty of styles tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab—like the Brooks Ghost and HOKA Clifton.
What sneakers are on sale for Labor Day?
Brooks Ghost 16
- This best-selling shoe is top-tested in the Textiles Lab for its comfortable support and stable fit that makes it great for walking and running alike. Our consumer testers love the Ghost series for its ample cushioning and comfortable heel, while our pros named it the best running shoe for plantar fasciitis in a recent roundup because of its moderately cushioned midsole and a segmented traction. This popular sneaker has been consistently on sale for a few months—and since Brooks debuted its upgraded Ghost 17 shoe earlier this year, you're running out of time to save on last year's style.
Reebok Nano X5
- Hit the gym in this editor-loved sneaker that's great for cross-training. We have tested multiple versions of the Reebok Nano over the years; our experts were impressed by the firm yet flexible base and responsive footbed. "They have a firm base great for lifting, but flexible enough for cardio workouts," says Textiles Lab Associate Director Emma Seymour.
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4
- If there's a shoe I'm willing to buy again and again, it's the FuelCell Rebel. While it hasn't been tested in the Lab yet, this lightweight and bouncy sneaker is my personal favorite for everyday jogs and long runs alike. Despite having ran in nearly 100 different shoes as a former college track athlete and current marathon runner, this is the style I keep coming back to for its crowd-pleasing balance of cushion and bounce—I'm on my fifth pair!
Adidas Cloudfoam
- This Amazon's Choice sneaker is one of the steepest Labor Day deals I've seen so far at just over $50. While we haven't tested this style in the Lab, thousands of Amazon reviewers claim they are lightweight and supportive for gym sessions and walking alike.
New Balance 574
- Your search for a stylish yet comfortable sneaker is over: The suede-wrapped New Balance 574 is having a major moment on TikTok right now for its 90s-inspired style and cushioned midsole, and it's on a rare sale. The brand is one of our experts' top footwear brands for its variety of supportive designs and extended size range.
HOKA Clifton 9
- If you want to capitalize on the latest chunky shoe trends for a bouncy stride, our consumer testers loved how supportive and stable the Clifton 9 is. One tester said, "It feels like I'm walking on clouds." The subtle rocker shape is great for both walking and running, since it'll help propel you forward with every step. Plus, our pros named it the best overall HOKA sneaker.
Nike Dunk Low
- Calling all sneakerheads: This coveted Nike style is rarely on sale, but I spotted it for under $100 in this blush pink hue ahead of Labor Day. It's among the best Nike shoes for women because of its casual style and responsive foam midsole that's still comfortable.
Nike Pegasus 41
- One of the most stylish running sneakers on the market (according to our testers), this shoe packs in a lot of features your feet will appreciate while out on a run. We've tested a variety of Nike styles over the decades, and one tester logged a total of 42 miles when trying out the Pegasus 41. After embarking on 3- to 5-mile runs on streets and sidewalks, they reported that the shoe provided "good support." While sales on this style are rare right now, you can shop a few different sizes and colors on sale at Dick's Sporting Goods.
Skechers Go Walk Joy
- Not only are the Skechers Go Walk Joy sneakers best sellers on Amazon (with over 13,000 five-star reviews and counting), but they're also praised by experts on our Textiles Lab. Home & Apparel Reviews Analyst Amanda Constantine wore them for "hours" while working, and she noted how comfortable they felt (and how easy they were to clean in the washing machine). They were named the best slip-on shoes you can find on Amazon after testing.
How to find the best running shoe for you
Priya Parthasarathy, D.P.M., a podiatrist and partner at Foot and Ankle Specialists of the Mid-Atlantic, previously noted how choosing shoes that fit correctly can enhance your performance while helping reduce injury risks. For instance, shoes that don't fit properly may result in blisters as well as pain in the knees, hip, and back.
In order to first try sneakers on at home (or on a treadmill), Seymour recommends buying shoes with "generous" return policies—all while prioritizing comfort. She says that, while wiggling your toes, you should have about half an inch of room in the toe box. Sizing up is also an option, per Seymour, since feet can swell while working out or running.
Samantha is a lifestyle commerce editor at Hearst magazines, where she covers fashion, fitness gear, tech, and viral products. She has over six years of editorial experience, including writing, editing, and hands-on product testing for commerce stories—whether it be an in-depth running shoe review or a curation of the latest Prime Day deals. As an avid runner and former Division I athlete, Samantha has particular expertise in fitness gear, apparel, shoes, and tech. (In fact, when she’s not at her desk, she’s probably out for a run.)
You can find Samantha’s work in Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, House Beautiful, Country Living, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, PEOPLE, and more.
