Best Running Shoes for Marathons

Choosing the right marathon shoe can make a real difference to both your performance and how you feel at 35km. The market has never been better, from full carbon plate racers to plush long-distance trainers, there is something for every runner.

We have broken this guide into two camps: race day shoes for runners chasing times, and comfortable endurance shoes for those focused on finishing strong.

Best for racing: carbon plate shoes

The Nike Vaporfly 4 remains the benchmark for marathon racing. Its ZoomX foam and carbon fibre plate combination delivers exceptional energy return mile after mile. It is what the majority of podium finishers wear at major marathons worldwide.

The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is the closest rival. With its Lightstrike Pro midsole and carbon rods, it offers a slightly more stable ride than the Vaporfly while still delivering elite-level performance. Many runners find it more forgiving over longer distances.

If budget is a concern, the Adidas Adizero Boston 13 punches well above its price point. No carbon plate, but the Lightstrike Pro foam alone makes it one of the fastest non-plated options available.

Best for comfort and endurance

The Hoka Clifton 10 is a favourite for runners who want maximum cushioning without sacrificing too much pace. Its Meta-Rocker geometry keeps you moving efficiently even when fatigue sets in late in a race.

The Asics Gel-Nimbus 26 is another excellent choice for longer distances. The FF Blast+ Eco foam provides a plush, responsive ride that holds up well across 42km. Runners with a heavier footstrike often prefer it to the more aggressive race options.

New Balance's 1080v14 rounds out our recommendations. It's slightly heavier than the carbon options but delivers outstanding comfort and a smooth, forgiving ride that many marathon runners swear by for training and racing alike.

What to look for

Stack height and cushioning matter more in a marathon than a 5km. Your joints will thank you later. Look for shoes with at least 30mm of stack height if you're running your first marathon.

Carbon plate shoes have a learning curve. If you've never trained in a plated shoe, wear them for a few long runs before race day. The propulsive feeling takes some getting used to and uses different muscles to traditional trainers.