You know a big part of my philosophy is that you need to rotate your running shoes, which means having shoes for different kinds of runs.
Today we’re talking about marathon running shoes.
What’s going to have enough cushion, enough structure and enough life to get you through training.
More than that, there’s something that gives you a mental boost when you find the right shoe. It just feels good to put it on, it carries you through the miles and come race day you’re confident in that running shoe.
Best Marathon Running Shoes
While every runner is different, there are a few commonalities that will make most runners happy. And of course, it’s important to know when to replace your running shoes!
While one pair could get you through all of training, it might be run down enough that you don’t want to wear it for race day. If you’ve found a pair that you love during training, then grab a new pair about a month before the race.
What to consider with marathon shoes?
- Do you have pronation issues that you can’t correct with strengthening exercises?
- Do you want a pair specifically for race day that are lighter? (consider them your race shoes)
- Heavier runners or those with a larger frame (hello my very tall male friends) may want a more cushioned shoe
- Do you need a wide shoe? (feet swell the farther we run and in heat, so know your foot)
I’ll be sharing one from each of the major running shoe brands. Each brand has a slightly different fit and feel, so if you’ve tried a shoe from them previously now you’ll know which model will go the distance.
Click on any marathon shoe name below to see complete details.
You’re in luck because I recently tested out this shoe and did a full review! It’s been a long running favorite for many, which is why they’re up to the 27th model. It’s a more structured and cushioned shoe that for many strikes the balance of cushion, fairly light and enough structure to keep their foot strike in line.
- Stability running shoe
- Higher heel to toe
- Long time favorite to many runners
- Cushioned, but not overly soft
I ran in the very first model of this shoe and was surprised just how much I loved the maximal shoe. It was cushioned without being heavy and and feeling clunky.
- Neutral running shoe
- 5mm heel to toe
- Great cushioning
- 7 oz
In fact, since then I’ve tested out and compared Hoka models many times over the years.
A lot has been said about the Vaporfly 4%, but they aren’t the shoe I’d recommend for most runners. Some folks seem to run in to trouble with the carbon fiber plate. Assuming this uses the same foam as the React, I LOVE the cushioned feeling it provides.
