In the past, marathon runners who were at the top of their game achieved record-breaking results by wearing racing flats. These shoes resembled a thin piece of foam attached to a mesh upper. Recently, a new advancement in footwear called carbon-plated racers has emerged.
If running shoes do not make any difference, then what is the purpose of this guide?
If you are not a top-tier athlete and you are running a marathon in flat shoes, wouldn’t you prefer more cushioning after mile 10? Imagine having a running shoe that is gentle on your feet and has an upper that provides enough space for your toes instead of tightly constricting them.
Unless you’re on an incredibly scenic route, marathons have the potential to become dull after one or two hours. The least desirable situation would be having shoes that lack excitement for running.
Even if you have trained diligently for over six months before participating in a marathon, every little improvement matters, including the quality of your running shoes.
Although experienced runners may not have any difficulties running longer distances in flats, the majority of us will find the additional comfort to be appreciated.
The racing shoe landscape has also changed over time. Ten years ago, a road racer was typically a racing flat, which is a running shoe with minimal cushioning.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is comparable to the Speed 3, yet it incorporates numerous enhancements that elevate its performance as a top-notch marathon shoe.
The Speed 4 is both softer and weighs over 10% less than the Speed 3, specifically 7.2 ounces. Additionally, the upper area of the shoe has ample ventilation to ensure the feet remain cool throughout a marathon. While the upper is constructed to securely hold the foot like a racer should, it still maintains a high level of interior comfort.
The ride of the Pro 3 is made softer by the one-piece Pwrrun PB midsole. In addition to this, the Pro 3 has a feature that the Speed 3 lacks – an insole comprised of Pwrrun+ foam.
The presence of windows that reveal the Carbon plate also aids in reducing weight and contributes to the cushioning.
The Pro 3 is the perfect choice for participating in marathons due to its comfort and speed. Its PEBA foam midsole provides constant comfort throughout the marathon, while the Carbon plate functions as a springboard beneath the heel and a rocker beneath the forefoot.
Here is our comprehensive review of the Endorphin Pro 3, which is an exceptionally comfortable marathon racer that is also capable of accelerating quickly when necessary.
Nike Vaporfly 3
The running shoe called Vaporfly 4% was responsible for transforming the racing shoe market by replacing low-profile flats with Carbon plates and PEBA midsoles.
The VF 4% contained a Carbon plate within its ZoomX (PEBA foam) midsole, providing the desired spring-like sensation we have all grown to appreciate.
The V3 remains similar at its core, despite the significant redesign. Its lightweight and high-volume midsole serves as a deep cushioning reservoir, aiming to alleviate the fatigue during marathons and potentially enhance the experience. It goes without saying that marathons are generally not meant to be enjoyable, unless one possesses superhuman abilities.
The Vaporfly 3 effectively utilizes its plate to deliver a pleasing rearfoot snap and quick forefoot transitions, showcasing its ability to combine highly responsive cushioning with a speed-friendly demeanor. In this version, the plate is partially exposed, visible through cutouts in the midsole and outsole.
Nike maintains the fundamentals of the upper fit and does not change them. The top-down pressure is alleviated by the asymmetrical lacing system, and the lightweight upper disappears over the foot due to the deconstructed design. Despite these features, it still provides a secure grip.
The Vaporfly 3 has a lightweight outsole, which is the only aspect that we dislike. From the beginning, the Vaporfly was not a shoe known for its durability, and the V3’s thinner rubber lugs make it even less durable. If you prioritize durability, it would be better to opt for the Vaporfly 2 instead.
Nike Zoom Fly 5
The Carbon-plated Nike Zoom Fly 5 presents two convincing arguments for being an excellent choice as a marathon shoe.
When considering the factors, the price is clearly important. With a price tag of $160, it offers significant savings compared to the $250-300 super-shoes, and it even comes in $10 cheaper than the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3.
In addition, the Zoom Fly 5 offers a significant degree of stability due to its construction. Its wide midsole, which is of a firmer density, encloses a soft ZoomX core, making it an ideal choice for marathoners.
In addition, the midsole includes molded ‘scoops’ for structural support, and the outsole rubber also provides coverage over a wider contact area.
Even the top part of the shoe has a closer resemblance to a typical trainer. For instance, both the heel and tongue are provided with padding, which is considered a luxury that is often sacrificed by most marathon runners.
In our perspective, the Zoom Fly 5 provides an ideal combination of advantages. It offers the marathon-appropriate cushioning comfort of the Carbon plate and ZoomX core, while also providing the familiar stability found in traditional trainers. Furthermore, the price of the shoe is not excessively high.
You should be aware that the Zoom Fly 5 operates in a completely different manner compared to the Zoom Fly 4. We have provided a detailed review of the Zoom Fly 5 for you to peruse.
Hoka Rocket X 2
The Rocket X 2 improves upon the shortcomings of the initial Rocket X by incorporating several enhancements. The shoe features increased stack height, measuring 36 mm in the heel and 31 mm in the forefoot. Additionally, it boasts a new Peba midsole and an assertive meta-rocker design, facilitating a seamless transition throughout your stride. The shoe has garnered positive feedback from our team members. Both Robbe and Thomas successfully utilized it during their 800m repeats and were pleased with the results. Even Meg expressed contentment with the Rocket X 2, although her positive experience may have been influenced by testing the shoe in sunny San Luis Obispo, while the weather in Baltimore remained cold and rainy.
Regardless of the surroundings, Robbe is likely the most complimentary. He has been a dedicated supporter of the Metaspeed Edge+ for over a year and confidently stated that the Rocket X 2 enhances all the positive aspects of that shoe. It’s not too shabby, in our opinion. Frankly, the only slight issue we have with the shoe is that it could benefit from a bit more heel structure. While it is a choice for race days, where weight is crucial, we still prefer some support at the rear.
New Balance SC Trainer v2
When we saw the SC Trainer v2 at The Running Event last December, we were a bit scared because it lost an ounce and 7 mm from the stack height. Despite being a bit heavy, we absolutely loved the underfoot cushion of the first version, so we were nervous about these changes.
Our concerns were relieved when we tested the shoe and discovered that it was not the same large foam cushioning. However, the SC Trainer v2 is still flexible and offers ample comfort during the run. While some of us enjoyed the stretch knit upper from last year, there were many people who disliked it. Luckily, the updated version solves the problem of heel abrasion and still offers a comfortable and breathable fit.
Although it may have changed from its original state, it remains an excellent shoe that allows you to increase your speed. It is an ideal choice for those running a marathon for the first time or for anyone in search of a versatile shoe.
Adidas Boston 12
The Boston used to be our preferred choice for running shoes, but that changed. The shoe’s last two versions were bulky, rigid, and did not provide a satisfactory experience. This was especially evident when you could easily switch to any other running brand and find a superior shoe.
Great news: the Boston has made a triumphant comeback. The Lightstrike 2.0 midsole now offers a pleasant cushioning effect without any feeling of sinking. Moreover, it weighs almost an ounce less than its previous iteration. Additionally, the Boston boasts a fresh EnergyRod structure that closely resembles the one seen in the Adios Pro 3.
We wanted and hoped for the Boston 12 to be the perfect complement to the Adios Pro 3, and when running, it feels fun and fast while on the go, just as we desired.
Adidas Takumi Sen 9
Without a doubt, this is the finest shoe in terms of tempo that can be purchased with money, and it effortlessly competes with leading brands in any distance less than a half marathon.
The shoe’s perfect combination of features, including the Lightstrike Pro midsole, fiberglass EnergyRods, and Celermesh upper, result in an exceptional product. Its speed, lightweight nature, and comfort make it feel like pure running.
Asics Magic Speed 3
There can be significant changes within a year. We had little appreciation for the Asics Magic Speed 2, which made us anticipate the Magic Speed 3 with little enthusiasm. However, it is essential to acknowledge that both shoes and circumstances can alter, and such changes can bring about positive outcomes.
The latest edition of the shoe includes a complete carbon fiber plate, a full Flytefoam Blast+ midsole, and a Motion Wrap upper, resembling the high-end race day shoes. These features work together to produce a lightweight trainer that is both springy and responsive. It is suitable for a range of activities, such as shorter-distance races, tempo work, and everyday training. Hopefully, it maintains its current reliable performance in the future.
Skechers GoRun Ride 11
Despite being criminally underrated for almost ten years, Skechers Performance continues to be categorized in this way, although we are unsure why.
The GoRun Ride 11 has the potential to be considered one of the top daily trainers of this year, possibly even the best according to our senior editor, Robbe. In terms of running shoes, the supercritical Hyper Burst Ice midsole is likely the most outstanding option in terms of supercritical midsoles, as it offers just the right amount of cushion and energy return, making running in the shoe a truly enjoyable experience. Additionally, Skechers has finally mastered the art of creating a decent upper, ensuring a good fit and lockdown for runners, despite it possibly being slightly warm. Furthermore, the Goodyear outsole is highly durable and can last for extensive distances, potentially reaching hundreds of miles.
