Whether you’re gearing up for your inaugural marathon or already boasting a selection of running shoes, the quest for the perfect marathon footwear can be overwhelming. Factors like the frequency of use, the need for every day versus racing shoes, and even potential size adjustments for distance running all come into play. To simplify your search for marathon shoes catering to various training needs and skill levels, we’ve compiled a list of the best road running shoes designed for long distances, along with a bonus recommendation for trail running enthusiasts. For those feeling a bit lost in the pursuit of the ideal marathon shoe, worry not – we’ve included a set of tips to guide you. Explore our top 9 marathon running shoes and crucial insights into what defines a stellar marathon shoe. And for a more detailed understanding, dive into our comprehensive shoe reviews. Best Marathon Running Shoes.
At Runner’s Lab, our commitment to providing reliable insights on road running shoes and trail running shoes dates back to 2017. Through thorough reviews and curated feedback, we analyze a diverse array of personal experiences and assessments from both seasoned professionals and passionate amateurs. Our goal is to identify the consensus on the best running shoes across various categories.
However, we go beyond mere consensus. In our evaluation of marathon shoes, we delve into the outliers, aiming to understand the unique challenges faced by runners during their marathon training and how they select their long-distance footwear. Recognizing that what works for one runner may not be suitable for another, we take into account diverse perspectives, whether it’s for cushioned running shoes or sleek, streamlined options.
Furthermore, our scrutiny extends to verifying brand claims through scientific research. We meticulously examine the correlation between elite runners’ performance and shoe technology, stack height, cushion levels essential for enduring long-distance runs, and more. At Runner’s Lab, we strive to provide comprehensive and accurate information to guide runners in their pursuit of the perfect marathon shoe.
Best Marathon Running Shoes
1. Saucony Endorphin Speed 3: the Queen of Speed
This versatile daily trainer effortlessly transitions into an exceptional marathon racing shoe, delivering an exhilarating experience during long runs with its remarkable features: a nylon plate, soft PEBA foam, and a rockered design. The Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 excels not only as marathon running shoes but also as a reliable companion for speed workouts or more leisurely road runs, such as recovery sessions. Best Marathon Running Shoes.
The shoe’s adaptability and exceptionally comfortable ride stand out, accentuated by a spacious toe box and plush maximal cushioning. Despite its luxurious feel, the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 remains impressively lightweight, creating a sensation akin to flying.
In summary, the Saucony Endorphin Speed has firmly established itself as a prominent name in road training, promising a swift and enjoyable experience in both marathon training and racing.
Pros:
- Exceptionally comfortable cushioning
- Remarkably lightweight for the level of support
- Stylish design
- Versatile performance
Cons:
- Traction may be lacking on wet surfaces
- Comes with a premium price tag
2. Hoka Mach 5: Best for Comfort to Speed Ratio
Hoka One One has a well-known reputation for crafting cushioned shoes that seamlessly blend soft, comfortable designs with spacious toe boxes, creating a consistently enjoyable running experience. The Hoka Mach 5 stands out as one of the premier marathon running shoes, boasting an impressive cushioning-to-weight ratio and delivering a responsive yet plush ride. Best Marathon Running Shoes.
Notably versatile, the Mach 5 proves suitable for a variety of training runs, from roads to hard-packed trails, making it an excellent choice for those who train while on the go or wish to save space in their shoe collection. The shoe’s standout feature lies in the well-balanced combination of ample cushioning and a responsive, lively midsole that adds an extra spring to your stride during faster runs.
Compared to the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3, the Mach 5 is slightly lighter due to its smaller stack height, providing a more responsive and dynamic feel while running. This characteristic makes it a recommendation for more experienced runners or those seeking a heightened sense of the ground during their workouts.
Pros:
- An impressive balance between soft cushioning and a responsive ride
- Lightweight design suitable for any distance
- Versatile enough for trail running
Cons:
- Potential rigidity under the forefoot
- Tight fit may lead to increased heat during runs
3. New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12: Best for First-Time Marathoners
New Balance has earned acclaim for its lineup of moderately cushioned shoes that deliver a commendable blend of responsiveness and stability. The Fresh Foam 1080 v12 represents a substantial improvement over its predecessors, especially addressing concerns raised about the v11’s design (further details available in our comprehensive review). This model is particularly well-suited for first-time marathon runners seeking a stable, albeit less responsive midsole, and reliable comfort throughout their workouts. Best Marathon Running Shoes.
While not groundbreaking in terms of innovation, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080 v12 offers a seamless and comfortable ride, featuring a robust design capable of enduring many miles and providing effective protection against the elements. Tailored for individuals with wider feet and catering to the needs of heavier runners with its high stack height and substantial cushioning, this running shoe is a dependable choice.
Feedback from runners highlights excellent comfort levels extending from the upper to the Fresh Foam X midsole, offering a slightly livelier bounce. The rockered-shape midsole not only enhances comfort but also assists many in refining their running form, maintaining a neutral profile that accommodates a wide range of athletes.
Pros:
- Durable and long-lasting build
- High comfort levels from the upper to the midsole foam
- Neutral design suitable for various foot types
- Particularly well-suited for wider feet
Cons:
- Potential warmth during runs
- Higher weight compared to some alternatives
4. Salomon Ultra Glide: Top Pick for the Trails
For seasoned runners venturing onto the trails, the Salomon Ultra Glide presents a compelling option, blending the cushioned feel of road marathon designs with trail-specific technology. Launched in 2021, this new addition to the Salomon lineup stands out for its responsiveness relative to its weight, defying its initial appearance of being heavy on paper.
The shoe offers a snug fit, catering to those with narrower feet, but features a wide toe box to ensure comfort during extended off-road runs. While the outsole provides excellent grip on technical trails, it inherits the common limitation of Salomon shoes when it comes to wet rocks.
Despite being Salomon’s most cushioned running shoe, the Ultra Glide maintains a connection with the trail, with many runners attesting to its responsiveness, comparable to some of the brand’s more technical racing shoes, such as the S/Lab Ultra 3. This achievement positions it as a highly recommended choice for those embarking on their first off-road marathon.
Pros:
- Comfortable off-road experience
- Excellent price-to-quality ratio
- Well-fitting upper
- Convenient Quicklace system for trail use
Cons:
- Limited performance on wet terrain
- Reported lack of durability, with outsole lugs wearing down quickly
5. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39: marathon running shoes on a budget
While Nike is renowned for its premium and cutting-edge footwear, the Air Zoom Pegasus 39 stands out as a more budget-friendly daily trainer in their lineup. Released recently, these shoes are designed for daily training, featuring cushioning from Nike Reach foam and Zoom Air units that provide effective shock absorption for urban runs. The newer model showcases a lighter and more streamlined design compared to its predecessors, ensuring a precise fit suitable for various running styles. Best Marathon Running Shoes.
Despite Nike’s claim of a technical mesh upper for enhanced ventilation, several reviewers note that the shoes tend to heat up considerably during summer runs. Additionally, the Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is acknowledged for not being the most responsive, making it a better fit for less experienced runners.
Pros:
- Good value for the price
- Versatile for everyday running
- Lightweight considering the level of cushioning
- Suitable for a wide range of runners
Cons:
- Limited breathability
- Less responsive compared to some alternatives
6. Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2: Futuristic Tech Meets Speed
Eliud Kipchoge’s record-breaking performances in the iconic Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next% have solidified their reputation as the ultimate marathon running shoes. Now in their second version, these trainers feature a slightly wider platform, enhancing stability for athletes. Constructed from Nike’s lightweight and breathable AtomKnit 2.0 material, the shoes incorporate forefoot Zoom Air pods in this iteration, aiming for improved shock absorption.
The ZoomX foam in the midsole, coupled with a full-length carbon fiber plate, ensures substantial energy return. However, the reduction in forefoot stack and an ensuing higher drop has led some users to find the overall feel less bouncy compared to the initial version. Notably, the original Alphafly had a heel stack height of 40 mm (the limit accepted by World Athletics) but a 4 mm drop, and the new version has significantly reduced forefoot cushioning. Best Marathon Running Shoes.
While the impact of this change on long-distance running remains to be fully understood, it’s likely to be noticeable to most runners. Prospective buyers should approach with caution, considering both the substantial cost and potential impact on running form.
Pros:
- Wider heel for increased stability around corners
- High-speed performance
- Improved padded tongue
- Remains the benchmark for high-tech, super-fast racing shoes
Cons:
- Reduced forefoot cushioning compared to the previous version
- Extremely expensive
- Limited availability in stores
7. Asics Gel Nimbus Lite 3: The Most Versatile Everyday Training Shoe
ASICS has gained renown for their gel-infused running shoes, catering to individuals of all ages and fitness levels, facilitating entry into running. The Gel Nimbus Lite 3, an extension of this legacy, elevates the overall stack height by a significant 10 mm compared to the Lite 2, delivering exceptionally comfortable cushioning suitable for daily training.
Equipped with a robust, solid rubber outsole, these shoes prove valuable for both speed workouts and extended runs, maintaining a balance between responsiveness and comfort. Positioned within the middle weight range, they offer a livelier feel than ASICS’s well-established Nimbus line, owing to the utilization of FlyteFoam in the midsole instead of the more conventional EVA foam.
Pros:
- 10 mm heel-to-toe drop, providing comfort for the Achilles tendon
- Versatile for various types of runs
- Lighter and more responsive compared to the Nimbus counterpart
- Overall excellent comfort
Cons:
- Some reviewers find the forefoot cushioning insufficient
- Grip performance could be improved
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8. Brooks Glycerin 20: The Best Vegan Shoes
Brooks stands out for incorporating vegan-friendly materials in their running shoes without compromising on comfort or versatility. The Glycerin 20, their soft and cushioned road running shoe, exemplifies this commitment, making it an ideal choice for marathon training, especially for long runs and racing, particularly for beginners prioritizing comfort and stability over speed on race day.
The midsole features a novel nitrogen-infused DNA Loft V3 foam, combining softness and responsiveness. Reviewers commend the rubber outsole with flex grooves, providing excellent grip on wet surfaces, perfect for training in adverse weather conditions. The Glycerin 20 is further praised for its well-padded heel collar and tongue, coupled with a breathable mesh upper that ensures comfort in all weather conditions.
Although it is the lightest shoe in Brooks’ range, it falls into the middle-weight category for long-distance running shoes due to its design and absence of particularly groundbreaking technology. Despite lacking standout features, the Glycerin 20 shines as a dependable option for marathon training across all skill levels, promising a super comfortable experience during training runs.
Pros:
- Lighter than its predecessors
- Breathable and comfortable upper
- Excellent grip on various surfaces
- A well-balanced mix of cushioning and responsiveness
Cons:
- Lacks particularly innovative features
9. Topo Athletic Phantom 2: marathon racing shoes for wide feet
Topo Athletic, renowned for catering to wider feet, presents the Phantom 2 as their long-distance road running shoe that embraces this characteristic. Boasting a soft and comfortable upper, a sufficiently cushioned midsole for extended runs, and a roomy and breathable toe box, this shoe aligns with the brand’s commitment to accommodating diverse foot shapes.
Notably, the Phantom 2 features a low drop of 5 mm, a deliberate design choice aimed at discouraging overstriding and promoting midfoot landings, reducing the risk of potential shockwave-related injuries. In comparison to its predecessor, this version offers more room without sacrificing a sleek feel, maintaining a comfortable and relatively enjoyable ride.
Additionally, the Phantom 2 incorporates bonus stability features, including a wider platform, secure lacing, and an external TPU heel counter, further enhancing the overall stability and support.
Pros:
- Comfortable and stable
- Ample room inside the shoe
- A relatively lightweight feel considering its volume
Cons:
- Slightly clunkier, but the comfort justifies it
In conclusion, the quest for the best shoes for marathon training goes beyond simply selecting the latest cutting-edge model with the hope that technology alone will enhance race day performance. True success in finding the ideal marathon shoes comes after a considerable amount of training and experimentation to discover the footwear that suits you best.
This guide serves as a foundational step toward recognizing shoe models specifically crafted for long distances that align with your running style and preferences. It’s advisable to have at least one pair of racing flats optimized for energy return during speed sessions and another pair that provides ample space and cushioning for longer runs. Begin logging those daily miles in one of these pairs and utilize our search criteria to pinpoint your ideal marathon shoes through a process of trial and refinement.
