Are you ready to conquer your next marathon? Lace up your shoes and get ready to hit the pavement with the best marathon shoes on the market. Whether you're seeking superior cushioning, explosive speed, or unbeatable stability, we've got you covered. Prepare to be captivated as we unveil the top contenders, from the Nike ZoomX Invincible 3 Cushioned Running Shoes to the Altra Lone Peak 7 and everything in between. Get ready to level up your running game with the best marathon shoes that will have you crossing that finish line in record time.
How to Choose the Best Running Shoe
When selecting a running shoe, there are certain factors to consider. One important factor is the weight of the shoe. Research indicates that heavier shoes require more energy to run in. On the other hand, lighter shoes usually have less cushioning but can feel faster. However, advancements in midsole foams now allow for a plush ride without adding much weight to the shoe. If you'll be running long distances, it may be beneficial to choose a shoe with extra cushioning to absorb impact.
To test a shoe's softness, our Shoe Lab takes individual measurements of both the heel and forefoot. This is because the overall experience can vary depending on where a runner lands and pushes off. Cushioning scores are given on a scale of 1 to 100, with 1 representing the firmest feel. It's worth noting that a harder-feeling shoe doesn't necessarily mean it lacks cushioning. In fact, certain research suggests that a midsole that's too soft can actually increase peak impact forces. In addition to cushioning, we also evaluate a running shoe's stability features, flexibility, and energy return to help you find the perfect fit.
Saucony uses an EVA-based Pwrrun midsole with a TPU-based Pwrrun sockliner for optimal cushioning. Adidas's Boost foam maintains its bounce even in cold weather. It's also important to consider a running shoe's heel-to-toe drop, which refers to the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. A higher drop can lead to more heel striking and transfer strain to the knee, while a lower drop shifts the load to the calf and Achilles. Neither option is superior, as personal running mechanics and injury history should be taken into account. Keep in mind that while most shoes have a drop between 8 and 12mm, some minimalist designs have no drop at all.
Altra's Superior has an equal height for the heel and forefoot, resulting in a zero-drop shoe. In contrast, Brooks's Ghost has a 12mm heel-to-toe drop. When making a purchasing decision, it's helpful to try on different shoes and choose the one that feels most natural and comfortable for your running style.
Lastly, let's talk about some specific shoe recommendations. The Nike ZoomX Invincible 3 Cushioned Running Shoes are known for their softness and comfort. They are ideal for daily training and long-distance running. The Nike ZoomX Invincible Run Flyknit 2 offers similar features, including a weight of 286g for men and 224g for women, an 8mm heel-to-toe drop, and a road/neutral type. The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is another great option, providing a balance of cushioning and responsiveness.
For racing purposes, the Nike Vaporfly 3 is widely regarded as the best racing shoe. It offers a lightweight design and excellent energy return. The Nike ZoomX Streakfly is specifically designed for 5K and 10K races, featuring a lightweight, low-profile, and springy ride. The Nike Air Zoom AlphaFly Next% 2 is an updated version of the shoe worn by the first person to run a sub-2-hour marathon. It focuses on energy return, cushioning, and reduced weight.
Moving on to Brooks, the Glycerin Stealthfit 20 is a versatile option that combines cushioning with responsiveness. It's suitable for steady runs and offers a comfortable fit. The Brooks Glycerin Stealthfit GTS 20 is a stability running shoe that provides a secure fit and support. The Brooks Ghost 15 is known for its cushioning and is considered a reliable daily trainer.
Remember to choose a running shoe that fits well and meets your specific needs. Happy running!
Saucony Tempus
Price: £165
Weight: 252g (Men), 207g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Stability
Saucony's latest stability shoe, the Tempus, incorporates key features from their highly regarded Endorphin series. At the heart of the Tempus is Pwrrun PB, the same PeBa-based 'superfoam' used in their popular super shoe, the Endorphin Pro. Testers were particularly impressed with the cushioning provided by the Tempus. One tester, who runs 55 miles per week, praised the shoe's ability to absorb impact and make running on concrete pavements more comfortable.
While Saucony categorizes the Tempus as "structured cushioning" rather than stability, runners with both neutral and overpronating gaits found the shoe supportive. The curved, EVA-based Pwrrun frame located under the midsole and heel provides stability and support. Testers who experience lateral knee pain and overpronation appreciated the added support from the shoe. The Tempus is a great choice for runners seeking extra support and stability.
Saucony Triumph 19
Weight: 290g (Men), 259g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Neutral
Approaching its 20th iteration, Saucony's Triumph series continues to impress with its cushioning and performance. Despite its weight, the Triumph 19 feels light and responsive. This is thanks to the Pwrrun cushioning, which is 28% lighter than previous models. Testers compared the sensation of running in the Triumph 19 to "big, spongy paws" that were both solid and soft.
The Triumph 19 maintains the smooth heel-to-toe roll and beveled heel and toe spring from its predecessor, ensuring a comfortable and stable ride. The updated mono-mesh upper improves breathability and provides a roomy toebox, secure midfoot fit, and supportive heel. The Triumph 19 offers exceptional comfort and versatility, making it an ideal choice for recovery runs, long training sessions, and even races.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
Price: £165
Weight: 232g (Men), 187g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Neutral
The Endorphin Speed 3 is Saucony's training shoe counterpart to the race-focused Pro 3. It features the same Speedroll technology and Pwrrun PB midsole. Testers noted a significant improvement in stability compared to the previous version, thanks to the winged nylon plate. The Speed 3 offers a more balanced and secure ride.
While not as powerful as the Pro 3, the Speed 3 is versatile and suitable for various types of workouts. Testers appreciated the firm yet comfortable ride provided by the nylon plate, which offered support without causing discomfort. Whether it was slow recovery runs, long training sessions, or even shorter races, the Speed 3 proved to be a reliable and standout shoe.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
Price: £210
Weight: 204g (Men), 176g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Performance
The Endorphin Pro series has established a solid reputation for helping runners achieve personal bests in longer races. The Pro 3 builds upon its predecessors, offering a lighter and more responsive experience. Despite its slightly thicker sole, the Pro 3 maintains its signature bouncy and propulsive sensation, courtesy of the carbon-fiber plate and Pwrrun PB foam cushioning.
The Pro 3's significant weight savings come from perforated holes in the tongue and a thinner outsole. Testers initially had concerns about the shoe's thickness, but they found the ride to be cushioned and smooth. The Pro 3 is designed for speed and encourages runners to go fast, making it an excellent choice for racing.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 Race Shoe
Lightest Saucony Racing Shoes
Adidas Adizero Pro 3
Price: £220
Weight: 230g (Men), 181g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 6.5mm
Type: Road / Performance
The Adizero Pro 3 represents the high-performance end of Adidas' carbon-racing shoes. It has garnered impressive results at the elite level of running. Testers praised the shoe's firmer ride, dynamic toe-off, and unique energy rods instead of a single carbon plate. These features differentiate the Pro 3 from other high-end shoes, providing a more responsive and propulsive feel.
Despite its firmness, the Pro 3 remains forgiving and offers a wider and more stable platform for comfortable running. Some testers experienced challenges with the shoe's fit, particularly in adjusting the laces and the movement of the tongue. However, for those seeking top-notch performance, the Pro 3 is an exceptional choice that may require a minor sacrifice in comfort.
Adidas Adistar
Weight: 325g (Men), 290g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 6mm
Type: Road/Neutral
The Adistar from Adidas is a maximal shoe with functional differences that make it stand out from the crowd. Notably, the Adistar offers a firmer ride compared to other heavily cushioned shoes. This is achieved through the midsole's Repetitor foam, which utilizes 15% recycled material and provides stability and security at the rear of the shoe, along with a softer and cushioned front end. The shoe's rocker profile enhances stability, especially for heel strikers. Testers praised the supportive upper and secure midfoot fit, which made the shoe feel like a natural extension of the foot. The Adistar is an excellent option for those seeking a larger shoe with a firm ride and added propulsion.
Salomon S/Lab Phantasm CF
Price: £200
Weight: 228g (Unisex)
Heel/toe drop: 9mm
Type: Road / Performance
Salomon's first high-powered road shoe, the S/Lab Phantasm CF, embraces its Lab heritage by offering a lightweight and rigid underfoot experience designed for competitive runners. The shoe features a composite fiber plate, providing a rocker-like effect that facilitates a smooth and effortless toe-off. The Phantasm CF's foam in the back end may feel thin for heel strikers, but testers with a forefoot strike appreciated the shoe's softness and enjoyable ride.
Decathlon Kiprun KS900
Price: £99.99
Weight: 256g (Men), 216g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Neutral
Decathlon's Kiprun KS900 is their premium road shoe, offering a plush and cushioned running experience. Testers were impressed with the shoe's soft foam midsole, providing a comfortable and pillowy ride. The wide midsole and prominent heel spur contribute to the shoe's stability and secure feel. Added foam in the ankle collar and tongue enhances the overall comfort, making the KS900 feel like a slipper. On the road, it delivers excellent grip, even in wet conditions. While not the most responsive model, the KS900 offers exceptional cushioning and comfort in a lightweight package at an unbeatable price point.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 25
Best Value Cushioned Running Shoe
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Asics Metaspeed Sky
Price: £225
Weight: 204g (unisex)
Heel/toe drop: 5mm
Type: Road / Performance
Asics' Metaspeed Sky, along with its twin the Metaspeed Edge, is one of two super shoes designed for different types of runners – those who take longer strides for speed, and those who take more strides. The Sky is specifically tailored for "stride" runners, but both models provide a boost. To make a decision between them, consider which one sounds more enjoyable to you, instead of analyzing cadence and pace data from your Garmin.
Both shoes feature more of Asics' Flytefoam Turbo foam compared to their predecessors, but the Sky also includes a carbon-fiber plate positioned higher in the midsole. This allows the foam between the plate and outsole to compress more, storing more energy and giving "stride" runners extra height during toe-offs. Testers found no issues with traction, even on wet pavement. The mesh uppers fit snugly like a second skin, securely locking your foot in place.
Buy now, unisex
Read full review
Asics Gel-Nimbus 24
Won: Best In Test – Spring 2022
Weight: 290g (M), 247g (W)
Heel/toe drop: 13mm
Type: Road / Neutral
The Gel-Nimbus 24 is the 24th version of this shoe and retains the Nimbus spirit while incorporating noticeable changes. The updated model impresses both loyal Nimbus fans and new admirers. The FlyteFoam Blast midsole material is lighter and softer than before, providing excellent energy return. Testers praised the cushioning and responsiveness, describing the ride as plush and energetic. The shoe offers comfort throughout, with a stretchy knit tongue construction that secures the foot without feeling constrictive, a plush heel, and a comfortable ankle collar. The Jacquard mesh upper feels secure and breathable. The outsole material is lighter and more durable, offering great traction on various surfaces. While the shoe is lighter and more fast-paced than its predecessor, it is still best suited for long runs and everyday comfortable miles rather than speed sessions or short races.
Buy now - men's
Diadora Equipe Atomo
Rowan Fee
Price: £170
Weight: 250g (M), 200g (W)
Heel/toe drop: 5mm
Type: Road / Neutral
The Atomo is a smooth and relatively light trainer that performs well on dry roads. It may not offer any particularly exciting features, but the overall combination of elements works effectively. The midsole consists of an expanded EVA blended with a rubber-based polymer, resulting in a lightweight and responsive shoe that is more durable than traditional EVA alone. Diadora aimed to ensure that the shoe maintains its performance throughout its lifespan, even at mile 400. Testers were pleased with the firmness of the midsole, which provides a cushioned but not overly plush ride. One tester even described it as a shoe they would wear for a half marathon. The forefoot fit, especially for individuals with bunions, received positive feedback and caused no issues. It's worth noting that the shoe runs slightly small, so it is recommended to choose a larger size if unsure.
Buy now - men's
Buy now - women's
New Balance Fresh Foam X 860 v13 Running Shoes for Stability
Speediest Feeling Stability Shoe
New Balance Fresh Foam X Vongo V5
Weight: 280g (M), 222g (W)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Stability
The Vongo V5 is New Balance's stability shoe, offering premium cushioning and additional support for mild overpronators. This version introduces the Fresh Foam X midsole, which provides an ultra-cushioned and lightweight ride. The knitted upper features varying areas of thickness and support, with a thin and elasticated toebox for flexibility and breathability, complemented by perforated mesh. The embroidered logo under the N wraps around the midfoot, ensuring a secure fit. The shoe's foam is slightly firmer on the medial side, creating subtler support and a smooth transition for overpronators. Despite its stability features, the Vongo V5 remains fairly lightweight and responsive, making it a versatile option for comfortable long runs and speed workouts.
Buy now - men's
New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080 V12
Won: Highly Commended – Autumn 2022
Weight: 292g (M), 234g (W)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Neutral
The 1080 is a premium-quality shoe and one of New Balance's bestsellers. It offers top-of-the-line performance for all types of runners, whether you're training or simply going for a casual run. The latest version, the V12, features several updates that elevate the shoe's performance even further. The ankle collar has been redesigned with a more comfortable foam collar, replacing the previous rubber ankle collar. The Fresh Foam X midsole provides a softer and more plush ride, while the Hypoknit upper offers stretchiness and breathability. The wider forefoot shape allows for natural foot movement without any discomfort. The shoe's cushioning effectively absorbs impact and provides a smooth ride, making it suitable for various terrains.
Shop now - men's
Shop now - women's
New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3
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New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer
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Lululemon Blissfeel 2 Cushioned Running Shoe
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Puma Deviate Nitro 2
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Under Armour Hovr Machina 3
Weight: 301g (M), 269g (W)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Neutral
The Hovr Machina 3 from Under Armour stands out as a slightly heavier shoe among its lighter counterparts. Weighing just over 300g for a men's neutral shoe, it leans towards the more durable side. However, its weight does not translate to a heavy feel while running. The Machina 3 has actually increased in weight compared to its predecessor, due to the removal of a Pebax plate in the midsole. Instead, it features a dual-density foam midsole that combines a firmer and more responsive forefoot with a softer heel.
During a run, this design allows for ample cushioning and support, especially for heel strikers. The forefoot provides a firmer and more energetic toe-off, surprising given the shoe's weight. It is built solidly and offers a comfortable fit, thanks to generous foam around the tongue and ankle, as well as a seamless engineered mesh upper that eliminates any chance of irritation. An external TPU heel wrap adds stability. Overall, the Hovr Machina 3 is impressively durable, able to handle daily training sessions and pick up the pace when needed.
Buy now - men's
Buy now - women's
Under Armour Hovr Infinite 4
Weight: 298g (Men), 232g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road / Neutral
In previous models, Under Armour used a mesh called Energy Web to wrap the entire foam midsole of the Hovr Infinite, limiting how much the foam expands and increasing energy return. However, in the Infinite 4, they have only used a small patch of webbing on the lateral edge of the foam. The shoe still provides soft and plush cushioning, but it feels denser and not overly soft. Heel strikers will benefit the most from the cushioning, but the shoe offers a smooth ride for all types of foot strikes. The outsole of the Infinite 4 has deep flex grooves, providing better flexibility and grip on pavement. The shoe is also durable, thanks to its carbon-rubber outsole.
Buy now - men's
Buy now - women's
Under Armour Flow Velociti Wind 2
Weight: 238g (Men), 192g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 8mm
Type: Road/neutral
The second version of the Flow Velociti Wind from Under Armour features a UAWarp upper stitched to a one-piece Flow sole. The shoe uses a foam compound called Flow instead of a separate outsole, providing exceptional traction. The shoe runs slightly short, so wide-footed runners may want to size up. Overall, the Flow Velociti Wind 2 is a capable option for both training and racing.
Buy now - men's
Buy now - women's
Veja Marlin LT V-Knit Ouro Pierre
Weight: 288g (Unisex)
Heel/toe drop: 6mm
Type: Road / Neutral
The Veja Marlin LT V-Knit Ouro Pierre is made with 60% recycled materials, including a fully-recycled polyester upper. While not a performance shoe in terms of weight, it still offers a comfortable and responsive ride. The shoe has a firmer cushioning, but it is still capable of absorbing impact well. The breathable mesh, roomy toebox, and foam-padded ankle collar add to the overall comfort of the shoe. It's a solid option for eco-conscious runners.
Buy now - women's
Buy now - men's
Reebok Floatride Energy X
Weight: 258g (Unisex)
Heel/toe drop: 6mm
Type: Road / Performance
The Reebok Floatride Energy X is a versatile shoe designed for both training and racing. It offers excellent cushioning and stability, with good energy return. The slightly firmer ride of the Floatride Energy midsole appeals to larger runners, providing a well-cushioned yet stable experience. The shoe has a soft internal gusset for a secure fit, but some smaller runners may find the carbon-fibre forefoot too hard. Overall, it delivers an energetic ride.
Buy now - unisex
Topo Athletic MT-4 Trail Running Shoe
Best for Rocky Terrain
Altra Lone Peak 7
Best Zero-Drop Trail Shoe
Hoka Mafate Speed 4
Best Overall Trail Running Shoe
Hoka Mach 5
Our Favorite Hoka Trainer
AllBirds Tree Dasher 2
Price: £125
Weight: 290g (Men), 243g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 11mm
Type: Road / Neutral
The AllBirds Tree Dasher 2 is a running shoe with a focus on sustainability. It is made with recycled materials, including an upper made from eucalyptus tree fiber and a midsole made from sugarcane. The shoe offers a comfortable and responsive ride, with good impact absorption. It's a great option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint while still enjoying a quality running shoe.
Buy now - men's
Buy now - women's
On Cloudneo
Price: £25 per month
Weight: 255g (Men), 205g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 9mm
Type: Road / Neutral
The On Cloudneo is part of On's subscription service for recyclable running shoes. The shoe is made with sustainable materials and can be returned to be used as raw materials for new products. It features a single-piece undyed yarn upper for a minimal look. The new foam offers lightweight cushioning and the CloudTec hollow pods provide a comfortable ride. The only downside is a lack of grip in wet weather. Overall, it's an impressive and sustainable shoe.
Buy now - men's
Buy now - women's
Introducing Cloudmonster
Rowan Fee
Price: £150
Weight: 275g (Men), 230g (Women)
Heel/toe drop: 6mm
Type: Road / Neutral
This appropriately named giant represents the Swiss brand's foray into the world of maximalist shoes, designed to provide ample cushioning for long or easy runs. It features the largest CloudTec elements (the hollow pods in the midsole) of any On shoe. In fact, they're so big that you can fit your fingertip in them. Sitting atop these pods is the Speedboard, a sturdy plastic plate that serves as a solid platform for push-off.
The ankle collar is well-padded, securely locking the foot in place. The laces are wide, making it easy to find the perfect level of tightness and comfort across the top of the foot. When running at slower speeds or striking the heel or midfoot, the shoes offer cushioning. However, they feel firmer when running on the forefeet. While they are softer than other On shoes, they are not as pillowy as some other maximalist shoes. Nonetheless, they provide a smooth and comfortable ride, with enough responsiveness to accelerate when desired.
Buy now - men'sBuy now - women's
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best marathon shoes, there is no shortage of options. Whether you prioritize cushioning, stability, speed, or sustainability, the list above offers a diverse range of choices to meet your specific needs. From the top-of-the-line Nike ZoomX Invincible 3 to the eco-friendly AllBirds Tree Dasher 2, each shoe on this list has been carefully selected to deliver the comfort, performance, and durability required for those long-distance runs. So lace up, hit the pavement, and let your marathon dreams become a reality with the perfect pair of running shoes on your feet.
