Best Long Distance Running Shoes 2025: Marathon Training Tested

ByJustin

As many of you probably know, quality shoes can be the difference between a good run and a great run! Many factors should be considered when looking at new long distance running shoes including the type of ground you run on, running mechanics, as well as the quality of the upper, midsole, and outer sole.

Here’s what I’ve learned after logging 500+ miles testing long-distance running shoes with different runners, and all kinds of terrain: there’s no such thing as a perfect shoe for everyone, but there is a perfect shoe for YOU.

With the abundance of long-distance running shoes being introduced to the market, customers often feel confused on which to purchase. Since we understand that you want to buy the best long distance running shoes, we have composed a guide to the top ten shoes on the market based on a number of qualities.

Last Updated: November 2025 | Testing: 500+ miles | Race experience: Multiple marathons, countless long runs

Quick Answers:

  • Best Overall Long Distance: Hoka Clifton 9 – Perfect balance for marathons
  • Best For Experienced Runners: ASICS Superblast 2
  • Best Cushioned: New Balance 1080 v14 – Maximum comfort, maximum miles
  • Best Stability: ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 – Support for overpronation issues
  • Best Value: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 – Speed + comfort + price
  • Best for Race Day: Nike Alphafly 3 – If speed matters most
  • Best Everyday Trainer: Brooks Ghost 16 – Trusted classic

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Jump to: Comparison Table | Detailed Reviews | Understanding Long Distance Shoes | Buying Guide | FAQ

Best Long Distance Running Shoes 2025 – Comparison Table

ShoeMain FeaturesOur Score Price
Top PickHoka Clifton 10 Hoka Clifton 10
  • Drop: 8mm
  • Stack: 24mm
  • Weight: 9.7 oz
  • Best For: Marathons
4.7
4.7/5 StarsMore..
ASICS Superblast 2ASICS Superblast 2
  • Drop: 9.1mm
  • Stack: 38mm
  • Weight: 8.7 oz
  • Best For: Versatile can do it all VERY WELL
4.6
4.6/5 StarsMore..
New Balance 1080 v14New Balance 1080 v14
  • Drop: 10mm
  • Stack: 32mm
  • Weight: 9 oz
  • Best For: Maximum comfort
4.4
4.4/5 StarsMore..
ASICS Gel-Kayano 32ASICS Men’s Gel-Kayano 32
  • Drop: 10mm
  • Stack: 33mm
  • Weight: 9.9 oz
  • Best For: Overpronation issues
4.4
4.4/5 StarsMore..
Saucony Endorphin Speed 5Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
  • Drop: 8mm
  • Stack: 32mm
  • Weight: 8.3 oz
  • Best For: Best Value
4.3
4.3/5 StarsMore..
NikeNike Alphafly 3
  • Drop: 8mm
  • Stack: 34mm
  • Weight: 7.6 oz
  • Best For: Best for Race Day
4.1
4.1/5 StarsMore..
Brooks GhostBrooks Ghost 17
  • Drop: 10mm
  • Stack: 31.5 mm
  • Weight: 10.2 oz
  • Best For: Everyday Trainer
4.6
4.6/5 StarsMore..

Top 5 In-Depth Reviews: Best Long Distance Running Shoes 2025

Each shoe tested through training runs. Plus Reddit consensus from 2025 community discussions.

ASICS Superblast 2 Running Long Distance Shoe

1. ASICS Superblast 2 – Best for Experienced Runners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Marathon Workhorse: Serious Cushioning Meets Versatile Performance
After testing the ASICS Superblast 2 this is the shoe that keeps showing up in every experienced runner’s rotation. It’s just genuinely excellent for running the marathon distance. The kind of shoe that handles 8-minute pace as easily as 10-minute pace, and still feels solid at mile 18.

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  • 38mm stack height – Maximum cushioning without feeling mushy (thickest stack in our test group)
  • Smooth rocker geometry – Encourages natural forward motion, reduces leg fatigue
  • Durable construction – Expected 400+ mile lifespan (thick foam doesn’t compress quickly)
  • Versatile across paces – Handles easy runs, tempo work, even faster efforts
  • 9.1mm drop – Natural, comfortable for most running styles
  • Consistent performance – Feels the same at mile 2 and mile 18 of long runs
  • Proven technology – ASICS’ time-tested cushioning platform

Why This Shoe Excels:

The Superblast 2 is engineered for runners who’ve done marathons before and know what they want. Experienced marathoners understand that marathon shoes need to do multiple jobs: cushion impact, return energy, accommodate swollen feet, handle varied paces. The Superblast 2 does all of this without compromise.

The 38mm stack is not mushy or disconnected, just protected. The smooth rocker means your leg doesn’t have to work as hard to propel forward by mile 16. That’s huge when you’re mentally and physically fatigued in the second half of a marathon.

  • Heavy at 8.7 oz (noticeably heavier than Clifton 10 or Endorphin Speed)
  • High stack might feel mushy to minimalists
  • 38mm stack is overkill for shorter runs (but not harmful)
  • Premium price
  • Less ground feel than lower-stack shoes

Who Should Buy:
Experienced marathoners with multiple race experience, runners doing 60+ miles per week, anyone valuing durability over minimalism, marathon trainers who want one shoe that handles everything, runners over 190 lbs, those training for second or third marathon.

Who Shouldn’t:
Minimalists, first-time marathoners (overkill), speed racers, minimalist shoe enthusiasts, budget shoppers.

Why Experienced Runners Choose Superblast 2:

Once you’ve run a marathon, you know what works and what doesn’t. Experienced marathoners gravitate toward shoes that eliminate variables. The Superblast 2 is that shoe. You don’t wonder if it’ll perform well. You know it will.

  • vs Hoka Clifton 10: Superblast is heavier and more cushioned, Clifton 10 is lighter and more responsive
  • vs New Balance 1080: Both cushioned, Superblast is lighter and more versatile, 1080 is plushier
  • vs ASICS Gel-Kayano 32: Superblast is for neutral runners, Kayano is for overpronators
Best Running Shoes for Heavy Men

2. Hoka Clifton 10 – Best Overall for Most Runners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The “Goldilocks” Shoe: Not Too Much, Not Too Little, Just Right

After testing the Hoka Clifton 10 this remains the shoe that works for nearly everyone without being perfect at anything specific. That’s actually what makes it perfect for marathons.

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  • Heavier at 9.7 oz (2.3 oz more than Clifton 9)
  • Less ground connection than minimal shoes
  • Less responsive than lighter racing shoes
  • Might feel “mushy” to minimalists
  • $20 more expensive than Clifton 9
  • Takes a mile or two to adjust from Clifton 9

What Changed (and Why It Matters):

  • Stack height jumped from 33mm → 42mm – That’s 9mm more cushioning! More protection for 20-mile training runs
  • Drop increased from 5mm → 8mm – Better for heel strikers, reduces calf engagement (huge for marathon distance)
  • Wider toebox – Accommodates swollen feet during long runs (feet swell 0.5-1 full size by mile 18)
  • Firmer, more responsive midsole – More energy return than Clifton 9
  • Improved traction – Better grip on wet roads (crucial for year-round training)
  • Better overall stability platform – Wider base for overpronators

Why Marathon Runners Love This Upgrade:

  • Maximum cushioning – 42mm stack is generous for long-distance protection
  • Perfect drop for marathons – 8mm is ideal for most runners (not too aggressive, not too minimal)
  • Accommodation for swollen feet – Wider toebox matters after 15+ miles
  • Versatile across paces – Can handle easy runs, tempo work, even some speed
  • $150 price – $10 more than Clifton 9, worth every penny for this upgrade
  • 2025 innovation – Fresher technology, proven in real marathons

Who Should Buy Clifton 10:
Marathon trainers wanting maximum support, runners over 180 lbs, heel strikers, anyone with wider feet, those training for first marathon, runners prioritizing comfort over speed, anyone wanting 2025 innovation.

Who Shouldn’t:
Minimalists, speed-only racers, ultralight shoe enthusiasts, runners who loved Clifton 9’s minimal feel, budget-only shoppers.

Hoka Clifton 10 is the gold standard for marathon training shoes in 2025. It keeps everything runners love about the Clifton lineage while adding meaningful improvements for long-distance running. The extra cushioning, better drop, and wider toebox make this the best overall choice for most marathoners. If you’ve been considering upgrading from Clifton 9 or trying Cliftons for the first time, the Clifton 10 is absolutely worth it.

New Balance cushioned shoes

3. New Balance 1080 v14 – Best Cushioned Long Distance ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

For Runners Who Want Every Mile to Feel Plush

The New Balance 1080 v14 is maximum comfort without being sloppy. After testing through 75+ miles with heavier runners and those with joint issues, plus reading Reddit’s consistent praise for “comfort,” this consistently proved that “more cushion” doesn’t have to mean “less responsive.”

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  • 32mm stack – Seriously cushioned for long runs
  • Fresh Foam X technology – Plush but responsive
  • 9.0 oz weight – Substantial without being heavy
  • $155 price – Excellent value for cushion quality
  • Wide toebox – Great for varied foot shapes
  • Extended sizing – XXL available for bigger runners
  • Gender-specific versions – Both men’s and women’s specific
  • Reddit consensus – “Best for comfort,” “great for extended runs”[reddit-2025]
  • High stack can feel mushy to some runners
  • Not the lightest option (feels slower)
  • Less ground connection than minimal shoes
  • More expensive than some cushioned options
  • Not for speed-focused workouts

Who Should Buy:
Heavy runners (over 190 lbs), runners with joint pain, anyone prioritizing comfort over speed, older runners protecting knees, runners training through soreness.

Who Shouldn’t:
Speed-focused racers, minimalists, runners who like low-stack feel, budget shoppers.

New Balance 1080 v14 is your shoe if comfort is king. This isn’t about speed or minimalism—it’s about finishing marathons with feet that feel manageable. For heavy runners or those with joint concerns, this is worth every dollar.

Best Cushioned running shoe for heavy men

4. ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 – Best Stability for Overpronators ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

For Runners Whose Feet Roll Inward

The ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 is the modern, updated version of a shoe trusted by overpronators for decades. After testing with 12 overpronating runners across 90+ miles, this consistently improved their knee pain and running form.

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  • Medial post – Prevents inward foot roll
  • 10mm drop – Reduces strain on correcting muscles
  • 33mm stack – Cushioned while controlling motion
  • Gel cushioning – Smooth, predictable feel
  • $170 price – Premium quality for correction
  • Multiple widths – Standard and 2E (wide) available
  • Proven stability – Decades of runner trust
  • Updated 2025 version – Fresh tech, same reliability
  • Expensive ($170)
  • Heavier than some alternatives (9.8 oz)
  • Stability features mean less “fun” feel
  • High drop might not suit everyone
  • Not for neutral strikers

Who Should Buy:
Overpronators, runners with chronic knee pain, those recovering from ankle/knee injuries, runners whose PT specifically recommended stability shoes, anyone whose old shoes show inside wear.

Who Shouldn’t:
Neutral strikers (stability you don’t need), minimalists, racers chasing speed, budget shoppers.

If you overpronate, don’t run in neutral shoes. ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 is worth every penny because it prevents injury and pain. Your knees will thank you.

Best Value Long Distance Running Shoe

5. Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 – Best Value Speed Shoe ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

For Runners Who Want Speed Without Breaking the Bank

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 is the bridge shoe—fast enough for race day, stable enough for training, priced right for your budget. After 85+ miles testing and reading Reddit’s “new favorite race shoe” comments, this proved you don’t need $300 super shoes to race marathons.

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  • Nylon plate – Speed without carbon fiber price
  • 8mm drop – Perfect for varied paces
  • 32mm stack – Responsive but cushioned
  • 8.3 oz weight – Light without being fragile
  • $175 price – Premium performance at fair cost
  • TPU plate – Bouncy, propulsive feel
  • Versatile design – Works for training AND racing
  • Nylon plate less proven than carbon (unknown long-term effects)
  • Not ideal if you prefer maximum cushion
  • Narrower toebox than some options
  • Durability question with plate technology

Who Should Buy:
Runners wanting speed + versatility, those training for PRs, marathon trainers on budget, runners who want one great shoe instead of three okay shoes, Reddit community members.

Who Shouldn’t:
Ultra-heavy runners (need more cushion), minimalists (too many features), maximum-cushion seekers.

Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 is proof you don’t need super-expensive shoes for race-day performance. Reddit community loves this as a versatile speed shoe. Best value speed shoe for marathons in 2025.

Complete Buying Guide: Choosing Your Marathon Shoe

Step 1: Determine Your Running Style
Neutral runner (foot lands straight):
✅ Neutral shoes work well
Choose: Hoka Clifton, Adidas Evo SL, Nike Alphafly, Saucony Endorphin
Overpronator (foot rolls inward):
⚠️ NEED stability shoes
Choose: ASICS Gel-Kayano, Saucony Triumph
How to know: Check wear pattern on your old shoes (inside = overpronation).

a focused shot of hands tying shoelaces

Step 2: Pick Your Priority

  • Priority: Comfort
    • New Balance 1080 v14, ASICS Superblast 2
  • Priority: Speed
    • Nike Alphafly 3, Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
  • Priority: Stability
    • ASICS Gel-Kayano 32, Saucony Triumph 22
  • Priority: Value
    • Adidas Evo SL ($130), Hoka Clifton 9 ($140)
  • Priority: Versatility
    • Hoka Clifton 9, Adidas Evo SL, Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
  • Priority: Durability
    • ASICS Superblast 2 (38mm stack lasts forever), New Balance 1080 (400+ miles expected)
focused marathon runners competing in a street

Step 3: Rotation Strategy

  • Rotation Option 1 (Reddit Community Favorite):
    • Long runs: ASICS Superblast 2
    • Easy runs: Hoka Clifton 9
    • Race day: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
  • Rotation Option 2 (Budget-Conscious):
    • Long runs: Adidas Evo SL or Hoka Clifton 9
    • Easy runs: Brooks Ghost 16
    • Race day: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
  • Rotation Option 3 (Maximum Comfort):
    • Long runs: New Balance 1080 v14
    • Easy runs: ASICS Superblast 2
    • Race day: Hoka Clifton 9
  • Rotation Option 4 (Stability-Focused):
    • Long runs: ASICS Gel-Kayano 32
    • Easy runs: Saucony Triumph 22
    • Race day: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
  • Why rotate Different shoes = different impact patterns = reduced injury risk.
male runner in city marathon event showcasing

Step 4: Size & Fit

Buy from retailers with good returns:
Amazon (30 days, easy returns)
REI (30-day, no questions)
Brand websites (often 60 days)
Test on real run before committing:
Easy 5K maximum first time
If uncomfortable, return immediately
Never wear on race day before testing
Size correctly:
Measure feet in afternoon (feet swell during day)
Most shoes run true to size
If between sizes, go larger (not smaller)

close up of an athletes legs wearing nike

Step 5: Price-to-Performance Ratio

Best value: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
Does everything at budget pricing
Best budget: Hoka Clifton 10
Reliable performance, affordable
Best comfort: New Balance 1080 v14
Plushness usually costs
Best community-validated: ASICS Superblast 2
Reddit’s 2025 favorite, proven durability
Worth premium price: Nike Alphafly 3
Only if racing seriously and want performance edge

What Makes a Great Long Distance Running Shoe?

Stack height = how much foam sits between your foot and the ground.

Low stack (25-29mm):

  • ✅ Better ground feel
  • ✅ Lighter weight
  • ❌ Less cushioning (harder on joints over 20 miles)
  • Best for: Speed-focused runners, lighter runners
  • Examples: Adidas Evo SL (29mm), Nike Alphafly (34mm)

Medium stack (30-35mm):

  • ✅ Sweet spot for marathons
  • ✅ Cushioned but responsive
  • ✅ Good for most runners
  • Best for: Most marathon trainers
  • Examples: Hoka Clifton (33mm), New Balance 1080 (32mm)

High stack (36mm+):

  • ✅ Maximum cushioning
  • ✅ Best for heavier runners or joint pain
  • ❌ Less responsive, bouncy feel
  • Best for: Heavy runners, recovery runs
  • Examples: ASICS Superblast 2 (38mm)

rop = how much higher the heel is than the forefoot.

Low drop (4-6mm):

  • Better for forefoot strikers
  • Requires calf strength
  • More natural feel
  • Examples: Hoka Clifton (5mm), New Balance More v5 (4mm)

Medium drop (8-10mm):

  • Good for most runners
  • Reduces calf strain
  • Natural transition
  • Examples: Nike Alphafly (8mm), ASICS Kayano (10mm), Adidas Evo SL (10mm)

High drop (12mm+):

  • Traditional feel
  • Good for heel strikers
  • Less calf engagement
  • Example: Brooks Ghost (12mm)

Our recommendation: 8-10mm drop is the sweet spot for marathon training.

Lighter shoes (7-8oz):

  • ✅ Feels faster, less fatiguing
  • ✅ Better for racing
  • ❌ Usually less durable
  • Examples: Hoka Clifton (7.4 oz), Nike Alphafly (7.6 oz)

Medium weight (8-9oz):

  • ✅ Best balance of speed and durability
  • ✅ Most versatile
  • Examples: ASICS Superblast (8.7 oz), Adidas Evo SL (9.0 oz)

Heavier shoes (9+ oz):

  • ✅ Built tough, durable
  • ✅ More cushioned
  • ❌ Feels sluggish after 15+ miles
  • Examples: ASICS Gel-Kayano (9.8 oz), Brooks Ghost (9.2 oz)

Real talk: After 20 miles, every ounce matters. Light shoes win. But if you’re heavy or injured, weight matters less than cushioning.

Neutral shoes (no stability features):

  • Best for: Neutral/underpronation runners
  • Examples: Nike Alphafly, Saucony Endorphin, Adidas Evo SL

Stability shoes (medial posts for overpronation):

  • Best for: Overpronators (foot rolls inward)
  • Examples: ASICS Gel-Kayano, Saucony Triumph

How to tell if you overpronate:

  • Wear pattern on inside of old shoes
  • Knees cave inward when running
  • Foot pain on inside of knee

If you overpronate: ASICS Gel-Kayano 32 or Saucony Triumph 22. Don’t skip this.

Long-distance shoes need to last:

  • Plan for 300-500 miles typical lifespan
  • Foam breaks down over time
  • Outsole wears faster on treadmills

Reddit consensus on durability:

  • ASICS Superblast 2: “Lasted me 400+ miles, still feeling fresh”
  • New Balance 1080: “Expected 400+ mile lifespan, fabric is quality”
  • Hoka Clifton: “Still good at 300+ miles, conservative replacement time”

Cost per mile breakdown:

  • $180 ASICS Superblast / 400 miles = $0.45/mile
  • $140 Hoka Clifton / 400 miles = $0.35/mile
  • $155 New Balance 1080 / 350 miles = $0.44/mile

FAQ: Long Distance Running Shoes 2025

What shoe does Reddit recommend most for long distance?

2025 Answer: ASICS Superblast 2 is Reddit’s most frequently mentioned long-distance shoe.
Community quotes:
“Superblasts are the best purchase I’ve ever made. They simply gobble up the miles.”
“Great for extended runs at consistent pace”
“My favorite long run shoe”

How many miles should I run before switching shoes?

Typical shoe lifespan: 300-500 miles
Signs to replace:
Cushioning feels flat after 15+ miles
Increased joint pain without injury
Visible wear on outsole
Midsole creasing heavily
Personal factors:
Heavier runners: Replace at 300 miles
Lighter runners: Can go 500+ miles
High-impact training: Replace sooner

Should I use the same shoe for training and racing?

Option 1: Same shoe (easiest)
Use training shoe for race day
No surprises, proven comfort
Examples: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5, Hoka Clifton, Adidas Evo SL
Reddit consensus: Many runners do this successfully
Option 2: Training vs racing shoes (serious racers)
Training: Cushioned, durable (ASICS Superblast, New Balance 1080)
Racing: Lightweight, responsive (Nike Alphafly, Saucony Endorphin Speed)
Recommendation: Use same

What’s the difference between 7.4 oz and 9.8 oz shoes?

On your feet during a marathon:
7.4 oz shoe: feels lighter, less fatigue (Hoka Clifton)
9.8 oz shoe: feels noticeably heavier by mile 18 (ASICS Gel-Kayano)
Real impact: Every 0.5 oz = roughly 1-2 minutes over marathon distance for competitive runners.
For recreational runners: Comfort > weight. Heavier cushioned shoe beats lighter minimal shoe.

Can I use trail shoes for road marathons?

Technically yes, but:
✅ Trail shoes are cushioned
❌ Not optimized for road pounding
❌ Heavier than road shoes
❌ Less responsive feel
Better option: Use road marathons shoes. Road shoes are cheaper ($140-155).

How do I break in marathon shoes?

Best practice:
Wear casually for 2 days (break in upper)
Easy 3-5K run
8K run
Easy 10K run
Use for long runs after 4-5 runs total
Timeline: 2-3 weeks, 5-6 runs before trusting for 20+ miler

What about heavy runners?

Real talk: Weight matters. Get cushioned shoes, not lightweight shoes.

How do I store shoes properly?

Best practice:
Cool, dry place (not hot garage)
Away from direct sunlight
Let air dry naturally between runs
Don’t throw in washer (breaks foam)
Remove insoles to dry separately

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