High-mileage runners require their shoes to have several qualities. They must be soft enough to cushion harsh pavement, firm enough to provide sufficient push-off over many miles, and durable enough to endure hours of pounding. However, they should also be lightweight to prevent the negative feeling of a difficult and tiring journey.
With the amount of time you’ll be wearing these shoes, it is important to consider durability and comfort to avoid purchasing a new pair every month. Our testing has determined that these shoes are the best for the job, whether you are training for a marathon or simply increasing your mileage for enjoyment and the thrill of the challenge.
Why It’s Important to Find the Right Marathon Running Shoes
The importance of having the correct running shoe is significant due to the possibility of developing problems such as ankle pain or knee pain during running, which frequently occurs over long distances.
Not only do weak hips and glutes contribute to foot pain when running, but wearing inappropriate running shoes is also the leading factor.
Firstly, at the basic level, your aim is to locate a shoe that:
- has enough room in the toe box for your feet to spread and potentially swell over the miles
- allows you to change the lacing to provide more room or lock in your heel
- keeps your arch from dropping in which places pressure on knees and ankles
What To Look For In Marathon Running Shoes?
When you are thinking about which running shoes to choose for covering all the training miles of over 26.2, there are some important aspects that you should investigate. The objective is to discover a shoe that can be used for the majority of training, allowing for an easy transition into race day by acquiring a new pair.
Comfort
When choosing your marathon running shoes, the main priority should be that they are comfortable. Running the distance of 26.2 miles is no laughing matter, and it is crucial to give importance to comfort. At this point, personal preferences may heavily influence the decision.
If a shoe is uncomfortable, it is usually an indication that it is causing your body to move in ways that are not preferred or may cause problems, such as blisters.
Cushioning
The level of cushioning in your marathon shoes is crucial for both comfort and maintaining proper running form.
The Hoka Bondi, being a super plush shoe, may cause you to sink slightly during a run, potentially resulting in lower back pain. This occurrence, although unexpected, is not rare. However, it is exactly for this reason that I appreciate using the shoe on my recovery days.
Endurance events can be really hard on the feet and joints when going with minimal cushion, which is the flipside.
Some Flexibility
When it comes to selecting the appropriate distance running shoes, support is an exceedingly crucial factor to consider.
When we run long distances, our muscles eventually grow tired, leading to a decline in our form. Wearing supportive shoes while tired can contribute to running for a longer duration and maintaining proper form, which is crucial during a marathon.
Durable Outer Sole
For long-lasting shoes, it is crucial to prioritize a solid rubber outsole rather than one constructed of blown rubber in terms of durability. By doing so, you can guarantee that your shoes will endure beyond a few long-distance runs.
Taking into account that a rougher outsole may result in additional weight, it is still worth considering, particularly when running in the summer on scorching concrete or asphalt.
Breathability
I suggest choosing running shoes that offer excellent breathability because when we run, our feet tend to sweat and become swollen. By allowing heat to escape, we can effectively minimize the formation of blisters or hotspots.
The additional breathability will be crucial for your comfort on race day, especially when running for 26.2 miles.
When searching for shoes that offer high breathability, consider looking for styles that feature mesh uppers in order to minimize skin friction and prevent blisters.
Type of Feet
When considering the shape of your foot, it is particularly important to take into account the height of your arch.
The reason why your foot strikes the ground a certain way when you run is because of your arch, as it affects your gait.
The various types of walking patterns influence the specific areas of the foot that need greater support, which in turn determines the level of arch support to seek in your footwear.
People with flat feet or low arches often observe that their feet roll inward, a condition referred to as overpronation, while they are running.
Runners who are considering stability shoes should think step by step, as these shoes offer extra support from the midsole to the heel, thus helping prevent injuries.
Neutral shoes are most suitable for individuals with high arches because they require ample cushioning, especially in the midfoot area.
Ample Space in the Toe box
When considering, it is important to search for a shoe that has enough room in the toe area.
Typically, there should be a gap equal to the length of a thumb between the shoe box and the longest toe. This gap is important because it avoids the repeated impact of the toe against the toe box, which can lead to issues such as runner’s toe.
To guarantee enough space for our toes to move, we need to ensure that there is ample room for foot swelling during the race. If you are experiencing numbness in your feet while running, it indicates that your shoe size is inadequate.
In addition, if the shoe is too wide, it could lead to movement of your foot within the shoe and cause friction between your toes and the toe box, potentially causing blisters or other problems.
Fits the Terrain
The marathon shoes that are most suitable for you will also depend on the type of terrain you will be running in.
The type of shoes required for trail marathons will differ greatly from the type of shoes needed for road marathons.
Road runners will require ample cushioning, whereas trail runners will require outsoles that provide a strong grip.
Other Things to Consider
Although one pair could suffice for completing all of your training, it is possible that it might become worn out to the point where you would prefer not to wear it on race day.
If you have found a pair of shoes that you really like during your training, make sure to get a new pair approximately one month prior to the race.
Knowing when to replace your running shoes is definitely important.
When deciding which marathon shoes to purchase, it’s also important to ask yourself other questions.
- Do you have pronation issues that you can’t correct with strengthening exercises?
- Do you want a pair specifically for race day that is lighter? (consider them your race shoes)
- Do you need a wide shoe? (feet swell the farther we run and in heat, so know your foot)
The Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Putting in the Miles
Asics Gel-Nimbus Lite 3 Long-Distance Sneaker
In order to have an Asics Gel-Nimbus, it is necessary to have the gel component. The Lite version still retains gel in the heel and forefoot, although it is not visibly protruding. Additionally, it maintains a considerable amount of rubber beneath the foot, enhancing its durability. Despite these factors typically adding weight to a shoe, they have not affected the overall feeling of the Lite 3.
One tester provided feedback, stating that the best aspect of the shoes is their overall weight. They feel speedy and agile during runs, particularly in speed workouts. Furthermore, during longer runs, the shoes do not fatigue the tester’s legs due to the absence of heavyweight.
Although the shoe is not excessively comfortable, a few testers desired a bit more softness in the area beneath the forefoot. If you desire a plush feeling, consider the standard Nimbus. Nevertheless, the Lite’s more energetic ride can be attributed to the FlyteFoam, which is notably lighter in comparison to traditional EVA.
Topo Athletic Phantom 2 Running Sneakers for Long Distance
Retaining its essential qualities, the updated Phantom offers a comfortable fit with ample space for the toes. Some testers were critical of the wide appearance of the toebox, but acknowledged its ability to prevent black toenails and blisters. However, the most impressive feature is the divided midsole, which delivers sturdy cushioning and shock absorption, making it ideal for long distances and runners with a vigorous pace.
One tester, who describes themselves as a heel striker, remarked that the cushioning from front to back was excellent. They compared it to running in a comfortable moccasin that provided secure foot support and minimal movement. The Phantom is on par with the Brooks Glycerin and Altra Paradigm in terms of comfort. Additionally, it offers stability features such as an external TPU heel counter, wider platform, and secure lacing system, making it a versatile trainer that keeps the foot secure and protects against ankle rolling.
HOKA Mach 5 Long-Distance Running Shoes
Runner-in-chief Jeff Dengate considered the Mach 4 as the superior version after conducting tests. The Mach 5 continues where its predecessor left off, with Hoka making adjustments to the midsole construction to enhance the shoe’s speed.
The Mach now utilizes the bouncy Profly+ foam, which is a modified version of the previously utilized Profly material. This alteration enhances the rebound of energy and provides a slightly more responsive experience when running at faster speeds. The initial Meta-Rocker design, which features a curved sole shape, remains unchanged and continues to facilitate swift heel-to-toe transitions. Consequently, the shoe offers ample cushioning without impeding your running performance. While some individuals may prefer the addition of an oversized heel pull tab (similar to that of the Mach Supersonic) for easier foot entry, its absence contributes to a weight reduction of nearly half an ounce in the 5 drop version.
Mizuno Wave Rider 25 Long-Distance Sneaker
The Rider has reached a significant milestone with twenty-five models of this shoe produced by Mizuno. One tester, who has been with the brand for a long time, proclaimed this version as his favorite. Another tester stated that it is undeniably the most cushioned and softest one yet. The reason behind this is Mizuno’s fulfillment of their promise from the Rider 24, which was a full-length layer of luxuriously soft Enerzy foam in the midsole. In previous versions of the Rider, Mizuno utilized a variety of foams, including firmer U4ic and U4icX, both above and below the wave plate.
While the shoe’s ride may feel slightly disjointed with messy transitions due to the combination of multiple foams, the use of solely Enerzy foam ensures a smoother and more consistent ride. This is particularly true when combined with the new castor bean-based wave plate in the 25’s.
The Rider 24’s plate is flatter, which results in a higher amplitude and enables it to return more energy with each footstrike. Additionally, its shape perfectly aligns with the arch, providing a more comfortable experience. According to one tester, this shoe offers a smooth and springy feel, making it ideal for endurance work and longer runs where you will be on your feet for extended periods of time.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 Long-Distance Running Shoe
Remaining true to its renowned reputation as a reliable and efficient running shoe, the 39th Peg can aptly be described as a “hardworking powerhouse in flight.” Similar to its predecessor, the Pegasus 38, this edition incorporates the use of a React foam midsole, which provides a moderate softness and a reasonable level of flexibility, although it lacks the lightness and elasticity characteristic of ZoomX. The most significant alteration to the midsole is the addition of an air unit in the heel of the shoe, complementing the one in the forefoot. This not only enhances the cushioning by introducing a lighter feel, but also assists in reducing the weight that was gained in the 38th version. As a result, the Peg 39 is now lighter and feels more capable in terms of accommodating regular training distances and quick-paced exertions.
According to a tester, this trainer is suitable for all distances and workouts due to its durability. The tester used the Peg shoe for various types of runs, including long and easy runs at a pace of 8:30 per mile, fast speed workouts at a pace faster than 7:00 per mile, and everything in between. The tester noted that the 39 version of the shoe felt slightly softer compared to the previous version. However, the tester’s only complaint was that the toebox felt narrow and tight.
New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v12 Long Distance Running Sneaker
Recently, professional steeplechaser Emma Coburn informed us that the Fresh Foam 880 holds the title as her favorite running shoe for everyday mileage. The reasons behind this choice are evident. The 880 serves as the perfect trainer, being durable, comfortable, and providing a secure fit. With the addition of a new two-layer midsole, the twelfth version offers even greater softness. The upper section offers comfort and is well-suited for individuals with wide feet. Additionally, the ample blown rubber outsole effectively handles extensive marathon training, particularly for those who primarily run on slippery surfaces such as roads and sidewalks.
While not the lightest, the shoe is still agile enough to ensure a smooth and effortless run, even for long distances. Additionally, New Balance has recently adjusted the firmness of the Fresh Foam X cushioning, making it feel slightly softer than before. If you frequently transition from running to extended periods of standing, this shoe is an excellent choice as it can effectively cater to both activities.
