men’s 10): 7.8 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Construction: Carbon fiber plate, EVA foam
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The best marathon shoes are also an excellent option for speed workouts on the track. Photo: iRunFar/Alli Miles
Pros:
Cons:
Very expensive
Not an everyday running shoe
If you’re chasing a personal best or any qualifying standard, the Nike Alphafly 3 is the shoe that will give you every performance edge on race day. Nike was the first running brand to introduce a super shoe with the Vaporfly in 2016. Nike’s Alphafly launched in 2020; the second iteration was in 2022. The third — and latest — was released in April 2024. Compared to the Vaporfly, the Alphafly has more cushion and stability, making it ideal for longer distances like the road marathon.
This shoe features two Nike Zoom Air pods in the forefoot to smooth the heel-to-toe transition and provide a feeling of forward propulsion as you push off your toes. Nike changed a few things about the latest version of this shoe. First, at 7.6 ounces, it’s gotten lighter, which we obviously dig. A wider carbon plate adds stability to the shoe, and Nike changed the upper to its AtomKnit material, which improves the breathability compared to previous versions. All this adds up to the best overall marathon shoe we tested, as it’s fast, responsive, and lightens the load on the legs over 26.2 miles.
Our testers felt like they could launch into space in these shoes — they immediately noticed the bounce that this shoe provides. Yet, for all that bounce and cushion, this shoe feels stable. The ZoomX cushion felt soft yet springy — never mushy — making workouts and tempo runs feel fast and effortless. The only real downside of this shoe is that it is among the most expensive running shoes currently available and will not withstand as many miles as the typical running shoe. As a result, we recommend using it as a specialized shoe for workouts and races. If you are new to running or aren’t training for a marathon time goal, it doesn’t make much sense to invest in this one.
[Editor’s Note: The Nike Vaporfly 3 is another popular super shoe that scored well in testing. However, it was edged out in overall ratings and thus excluded from this guide. Compared to the Alphafly 3, the Vaporfly is slightly lighter and better suited to shorter distances in addition to the marathon.]
Claimed Weight (U.S. men’s 10): 7.6 ounces (215 grams) | Drop: 8 millimeters | Construction: Carbon fiber plate, two Nike Zoom Air pods, Nike ZoomX foam
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The Nike Alphafly 3 is our favorite marathon racing shoe for the roads. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi
Pros:
Very responsive
Durable (for a super shoe)
More versatile than Nike Alphafly
Cons:
Wasted on slow, easy runs
The Hoka Rocket X 2 was a favorite among our testers for its responsiveness at high speeds. Built with a carbon fiber plate layered between two pieces of highly responsive foam, this shoe achieves an ideal balance between lightweight cushion and snappiness. The mesh upper is smooth, comfortable, and provides a sufficiently locked-in feel. Hoka’s MetaRocker design supports forward movement when you hit your stride.
Our testers noted that they felt the shoe’s propulsion the most at their fastest paces. As a result, this is the type of shoe that will thrive in workouts and high-turnover efforts. It’s not your slow-plodding, everyday easy run shoe, and if you’re not the type of runner to do speed workouts or race, you’d be wasting your money on the Rocket X 2. On the other hand, if you decide to invest in this shoe, you’ll be pleased to know that our primary tester has put 200 miles on their pair and reports that they’re still holding up well.
We also like the aesthetics of this shoe — it’s a super shoe without screaming that it’s a super shoe, especially compared to the Alphafly above. Since we first published this guide, Hoka launched another road racing shoe — the Cielo X 1. We’re actively testing this shoe, but so far, our initial impression is it’s not quite on par with the Rocket X 2. Our main observation is the Cielo doesn’t provide the same responsiveness, smoothness, and explosiveness, especially at marathon pace and faster.
Actual Weight (U.S. men’s 10): 7.8 ounces | Drop: 5 millimeters | Construction: Carbon fiber plate, EVA foam
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The Hoka Rocket X 2 is another super solid marathon racing shoe for the roads. Photo: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi
Pros:
– Versatile
– Comfortable
– Excellent durability and value
Cons:
The Nike Pegasus 41 is one of our favorite all-around running shoes. It is versatile and approachable, making it a great choice for beginner marathon runners. The cost is reasonable at $140, and the neutral support and moderate stack height make it suitable for a wide variety of runners.
The engineered mesh upper is comfortable and breathable, while the ReactX foam midsole is highly responsive, making it ideal for long runs and tempo workouts. The waffle-inspired rubber outsole provides excellent grip on various surfaces.
The Nike Pegasus 41 is a workhorse shoe that can handle ultra-marathon distances. It is also versatile enough to be worn in casual settings. Overall, it is a highly recommended shoe for marathon beginners and experienced runners alike.
Actual Weight (U.S. Men’s 9): 9.9 ounces (281 grams) | Drop: 10 millimeters | Construction: Engineered mesh upper, ReactX midsole foam, waffle-inspired rubber outsole
The Nike Pegasus 41 is a highly versatile running shoe at a good cost. Photo: iRunFar/Nathan Allen
Pros:
– Cushioned yet responsive
– Comfortable
– More versatile than a super shoe
– Good value
Cons:
The Saucony Kinvara Pro is a moderately priced shoe that combines super shoe technology with everyday training capabilities. It features a partial carbon plate between layers of responsive and durable PWRRUN foam, providing the rebound needed for speed workouts and races, as well as the comfort for daily training.
The shoe offers plush comfort and stability, but testers noted some early tread wear. It is estimated to last about 250 miles, making it less durable than traditional shoes but more than a true super shoe.
Claimed Weight: 9.5 ounces (269 grams) | Drop: 8 millimeters | Construction: Three-quarter carbon plate between two layers of Saucony’s PWRRUN foam
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 is a lightweight and bouncy racing shoe that is more versatile than a super shoe. It lacks a carbon plate but still provides plenty of bounce and energy return with the FuelCell foam. The no-sew upper construction helps prevent hot spots and gives the shoe a sleek look.
The shoe is great for daily running, workouts, and racing, especially for newer runners and first-time marathoners. It is a budget-friendly option that offers good value.
Claimed Weight: 7.5 ounces (212 grams) | Drop: 6 millimeters | Construction: New Balance’s FuelCell foam
Drop – The height difference between the heel and the forefoot of a shoe.
Midsole – The layer of material between the outsole and the upper of the shoe that provides cushioning and support.
Outsole – The outermost layer of the sole of a shoe that comes into contact with the ground, providing traction and durability.
Vibram Megagrip – A high-performance rubber compound used in outsoles to provide excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces.
Carbon Plate – A stiff, lightweight plate made of carbon fiber that is inserted into the midsole of a shoe to provide energy return and propulsion.
ZoomX Foam – Nike’s proprietary foam material known for its lightweight and responsive cushioning.
Vaporweave Mesh – A lightweight and durable mesh material used in the upper of Nike running shoes.
ProFly X Midsole Foam – Hoka’s midsole foam that offers a balance of cushioning and energy return for a smooth ride.
Rockered Profile – A curved shape in the sole of a shoe that helps facilitate a smooth and efficient heel-to-toe transition.
Gaiter – A protective covering worn over the shoe and lower leg to keep out debris and moisture in trail running.
For longer distances like the marathon, more cushioning can help reduce fatigue and impact on your legs and feet. However, too much cushioning can feel bulky and disconnected from the ground, making it harder to feel your footing and maintain stability. It’s a balance between protection and ground feel, and the best marathon shoe for you will depend on your personal preferences and running style.
Our testers rated the Hoka Rocket X 2 as the best marathon shoe for cushioning, with its thick midsole providing ample protection and comfort for long distances.
Heel-to-Toe Drop
The heel-to-toe drop is another factor to consider when choosing a marathon shoe. This measurement, usually in millimeters, indicates the height difference between the heel and forefoot of the shoe. A higher drop means that the heel is higher than the forefoot, which can encourage a heel-striking gait and provide more cushioning for the heel.
Conversely, a lower drop means that the heel and forefoot are closer to the same height, promoting a more natural midfoot or forefoot strike. This can help improve running efficiency and reduce strain on the lower legs. Some runners may prefer a higher drop for longer distances to reduce strain on the calf muscles, while others may prefer a lower drop for a more natural running form.
Ultimately, the best heel-to-toe drop for you will depend on your running style and preferences. Our testers found the Nike Alphafly 3 to have a moderate heel-to-toe drop that suited a wide range of runners.
Outsole
The outsole of a shoe is crucial for traction and durability, especially in a marathon shoe where you’ll be covering long distances on various surfaces. The outsole material and pattern can affect how the shoe grips the ground, providing stability and preventing slips and falls.
Durable rubber outsoles are common in marathon shoes to withstand the high mileage of training and racing. Look for a shoe with a pattern that provides good traction on both wet and dry surfaces, as well as on roads and trails if you plan to run on varied terrain. Our testers found the Saucony Endorphin Speed to have an excellent outsole that provided reliable traction in all conditions.
Upper
The upper of a shoe is responsible for securing your foot in place and providing a comfortable fit. Breathable materials and seamless construction can help prevent hot spots and blisters, while a secure lacing system ensures a snug and supportive fit. Look for an upper that is flexible yet supportive, allowing your foot to move naturally while providing stability and lockdown during your run.
Our testers rated the Asics Metaspeed Sky as having the best upper, with its lightweight and breathable design providing a comfortable and secure fit for long distances.
Ultimately, the best marathon shoe for you will depend on your individual preferences and running style. Consider factors like cushioning, heel-to-toe drop, outsole traction, and upper comfort when choosing a shoe for your next marathon. With the right shoe, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle 26.2 miles and achieve your goals on race day.
The Nike Alphafly 3 is a great option for those looking to maximize their performance in a marathon. It offers excellent breathability, cushioning, and support while also being lightweight. Ultimately, the best marathon shoe for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Do I need different shoes for training and racing a marathon?
While you can technically use the same pair of shoes for both training and racing a marathon, some runners prefer to have different shoes for different purposes. A comfortable everyday trainer may be better for long training runs and recovery days, while a lightweight racing shoe can help you achieve your best performance on race day.
Should I rotate between multiple pairs of shoes for marathon training?
Rotating between multiple pairs of shoes for marathon training can have its benefits. Different shoes offer different levels of cushioning, support, and durability, which can help prevent overuse injuries and keep your feet feeling fresh. It’s like having a toolbox of options to choose from based on your training goals and the surfaces you run on. This could be anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, depending on how your feet feel in the new shoes. It’s important to not wear brand-new shoes on race day to avoid any discomfort or potential blisters.
If you’re planning on switching to super shoes for your marathon, it’s recommended to start running in them a few weeks before the race to ensure they work well for you and that you can avoid any potential injuries. This will also give you time to adjust to the different feel and gait that super shoes can create.
In conclusion, super shoes can definitely improve your performance in a marathon, but it’s essential to make sure they work for you before committing to using them in a race. Having multiple pairs of running shoes in rotation, including traditional and super shoes, can help you stay prepared for any type of run and ensure you have the right shoes for each occasion. And always make sure to replace your shoes when they show signs of wear and tear to prevent injuries and discomfort during your runs. Suponiendo que sea uno con el que estás familiarizado, es probable que sepas mejor cuánto tiempo te lleva amoldar un nuevo par, y podría ser tan corto como una semana o dos antes de tu carrera.
Por otro lado, si estás cambiando de marca o modelo de zapatos, querrás darte al menos unas semanas para correr con tus nuevos zapatos a través de carreras fáciles, entrenamientos y carreras largas para asegurarte de que sigan proporcionando un ajuste excelente y suficiente comodidad mientras los amoldas.
Algunos zapatos pueden sentirse bien al principio y causar problemas más adelante, por lo que debes darte suficiente tiempo para superar el período de adaptación. Es importante tener en cuenta que los superzapatos como el Nike Alphafly 3 se desgastarán más rápido que los zapatos tradicionales, por lo que no debes hacer demasiado con ellos antes del día de la carrera.
Una consideración final es monitorear los zapatos que has estado usando durante tu bloque de entrenamiento para asegurarte de que no se desgasten justo cuando se acerca el día de la carrera. Si has estado usando el mismo par de zapatos durante varias semanas o meses mientras entrenas, estima la cantidad de millas que pondrás en esos zapatos antes de tu carrera y planifica cuándo comprar un par nuevo si es necesario.
¿Cuáles son los mejores zapatos de maratón para principiantes?
Los mejores zapatos de maratón para principiantes son aquellos que se sienten cómodos y rápidos. Probablemente se trate de un zapato moderadamente acolchado y ligero que sea elástico pero estable y que se ajuste bien a tu pie. Si bien algunos principiantes o corredores de maratón por primera vez pueden tener un objetivo de tiempo, la mejor manera de prepararte para el éxito es usar zapatos cómodos que te den confianza. Debido a su comodidad y versatilidad, recomendamos el Nike Pegasus 41 como un excelente zapato para maratonistas principiantes.
Un zapato como el Topo Cyclone 2 también proporciona una cantidad razonable de amortiguación, tiene buena durabilidad y es bastante cómodo, lo que lo convierte en una excelente opción para muchos corredores principiantes. Cuando estás corriendo tu primer maratón, quieres poder absorber la energía y disfrutar de la experiencia completa, ¡esto es difícil de hacer si estás experimentando puntos calientes o dolor en los pies!
¿Cuáles son los mejores zapatos de maratón para corredores lentos?
Hay un montón de zapatos para correr que pueden funcionar bien para corredores “lentos”. Si bien los superzapatos no están fuera de cuestión para corredores más lentos, es posible que no valga la pena la inversión si no estás compitiendo hacia un objetivo de tiempo específico o un estándar de clasificación. En su lugar, la comodidad puede ser más importante.
Zapatos como el New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 o el Topo Cyclone 2 podrían valer la pena considerar, ya que son zapatos cómodos y ligeros que se desempeñan bien en la distancia de maratón. Además, un zapato parcialmente con placa como el Saucony Kinvara Pro podría ser una buena opción ya que proporciona un buen equilibrio entre capacidad de respuesta y comodidad.
Puedes encontrar la combinación adecuada para tus necesidades en nuestra selección de los mejores zapatos para correr en carretera. Muchos de los zapatos en esa guía funcionarán bien para el uso diario y para correr maratones.
¿Entrenas y corres maratones? ¿Cuál es tu zapato de referencia?
¿Has corrido con superzapatos? ¿Han impactado en tu rendimiento en carrera?
Volver a Nuestras Mejores Selecciones de Zapatos para Correr Maratones
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La formación de maratón puede ser un desafío. Siempre es buena idea tener un compañero de entrenamiento para hablar y darte masajes en los hombros. Foto: iRunFar/Eszter Horanyi