Which running shoes can help you win the race? Which one can bring exciting running movements? You can find out one from these 10 best long-distance running shoes here
The best pair of long-distance running shoes must fit your running style as well as the shape of your foot for a comfortable run. If this is what you are looking for, this article can provide you with the top 10 products that can meet these requirements at a reasonable price.
Please take a look at the 10 best long-distance running shoes & buying guide below:
Top Rated Long Distance Running shoes
After learning the typical demands of runners, we make the list of the best long-distance running shoes below:
1. New Balance 1080v9 Fresh Foam - The unique design
Compared to the predecessor, New Balance 1080v9 has been improved with many new features, a better construction, especially its design.
It has not only a sleek look but also a compelling performance. That means that you can run for miles comfortably with this attractive look.
The manufacturer has removed the synthetic overlays from the old version, so now, this product has a minimal look in place of a bulky design. It doesn't decrease the durability of the upper. This thing is because of the lycra-like material at the heel, and the jacquard meshes material in the forefoot.
The minimal design never reduces the support, function, and construction of these shoes. Please take a look at some pieces of evidence:
The drop in these long-distance running shoes is 8mm, which is less than the other 10mm drop shoes. Thus, this cushioned sneaker is so lightweight, providing you with comfortable movements.
When it comes to stability, while the thick rubber outsole keeps your feet stabilized to grip the ground comfortably, your heel is stabilized thanks to the thick fresh foam midsole.
Unlike two flex grooves of the old version, this new model has five flex grooves in the forefoot for better flexibility. Therefore, you will have a smooth run and transition.
This jacquard mesh with pores is designed in the front part of the shoes for excellent breathability. This type of material offers good airflow and accommodates your foot for the best comfort.
Here is my favorite feature:
This pair of running shoes is applied to the no-sew technology, which can keep your feet from blistering and irritation.
Some users said that it feels strange with the foam heel counter of New Balance 1080v9 fresh foam running shoe.
Have you known the importance of a good pair of ? They help you run further, more comfortable, and safer. So, please let us know your choice and your experiences in the section below.
Pros
Cons
We strongly recommend these neutral running shoes for people who usually run on concrete and asphalt terrains.
2. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 - The perfectly-fitted shoes
Whether you want to use these shoes for short or medium distance runs, even the long-distance adventure, this perfectly-fitted item can provide you with the maximum comfort:
The manufacturer has moved the bottom eyelet to open the toe box and prevent rubbing on your midfoot. This feature also offers more flexion through your front to midfoot. With a more major range of motion, you put less friction on your Achilles when flexing.
The upper of these shoes can hold your foot in a significant fit even when you run quick intervals. Specifically, if you have wide feet, the updated upper will open the shoe up. But, it can perfectly fit for narrow feet as well.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes is the newest update of the Pegasus line, so you can expect many advanced features as follows:
The updated tread pattern of the outsole offers a better grip. So, you won't slip when running in a wet area.
The fly mesh upper construction plays a vital role in producing a pair of shoes with very high breathability. In particular, this feature allows you to clean off your shoes quickly, even when soaking them in the mud.
The best point of these running shoes is a wide range of color options. Depending on your own preference and running style, let's pick up a suitable choice.
For some people, the dips by the ankle are pretty low, so the support around the ankle is little, as well.
Pros
Cons
Whether you want to invest in a pair of shoes for sprints, track days, or workouts, Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35 Running Shoes can provide you with perfectly-fitted movements and responsive steps.
3. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 - The best stability
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 19 is a flagship about the stability of Brooks company. Let's discover the reasons below:
If your running mechanic is pronation, this product should be the right decision. The manufacturer has used Guide Rails to prevent the pronation. This innovative new support system provides runners with maximum support and stability.
How?
Guide Rails look like bumpers in bowling and while your feet play roles as balls. They stay there when essential and out of your way when not necessary. Thus, the excess heel and shin rotation are minimized to keep your safe and natural knee motion without pain and discomfort. In sum, this support system leads to your knee and ankle work together very well.
Although the "rails" on both sides will hold your foot, they don't cause itching. The BioMoGo makes you feel soft to touch.
With an excellent grip, you don't have to worry about bad weather and slippery roads anymore. It makes sure to provide you smooth and safe runs without slipping.
You can wear this pair of shoes in any weather condition. For example, the breathable mesh of the upper ensures that your feet cool and comfortable even when wearing them for a long time. Meanwhile, the water-resistant and dried-fast capacities allow you to run under the rain.
The shoes are too curvy in the front. After a long time of use, the front toes part may not be able to touch the ground.
Pros
Cons
If you are looking for a pair of shoes with the best stability, the Guide Rails feature of Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 19 can support you very well.
4. Brooks Beast 18 - The best overall
With a reasonable price, let's see what features make this best overall pair of running shoes:
Compared to the standard midsole of other shoes, the super DNA midsole of Brooks Beast 18 provides you with 25% more cushioning and adaptability for safe and smooth motions and movements.
Meanwhile, the Extended Progressive Diagonal Rollbar protects your feet from overpronating to keep them in natural positions. And the Segmented Crash Pad takes responsibility for guiding your feet into a natural position when landing.
This pair of long-distance running shoes' updated upper is very breathable and possible to wick away moisture, especially, it has a lot of room for your toes. Thus, your feet will cool all day long without pain and discomfort. The no-sew overlays bring smooth runs without causing itching. These features are very beneficial for runners who have overpronation running mechanic.
The cleaning and washing process of your shoes is also effortless. When you want to wash your removable liner, it's just simple to take it out and wash.
The structured saddle of the upper allows you to tighten or loosen the support as desired.
Besides, the external heel counter of your shoes helps you expand the stability.
Do you usually run in a wet, dry, or bad condition?
If yes, the good news is that the HPR Green outsole works very well in these conditions. Meanwhile, the rest of the outsole is made from rubber, which improves durability. It means that you can use them for a long time, even in severe weather conditions.
Finally, the Omega Flex Grooves increase the flexibility for your more natural movements.
You shouldn't use them to play basketball. If you really want to play this type of sport with Brooks Beast 18, it's essential to lace them up tightly.
Pros
Cons
We strongly recommend this item for runners with overpronation because they need extra stability. If you have the condition of Plantar Fasciitis, these shoes can also protect your feet.
Related: Running shoes for plantar fasciitis
5. Adidas Adizero Boston 8 - The best one for different uses
Adidas Adizero Boston 8 Running Shoe is not only a pair of the long-distance running shoes but also items for daily training, up-tempo, a solid racing, and so on.
Please take a look at our examples:
The fast, smooth transition feature of these shoes provides runners with extra stability to run during a race like a marathon.
Both easy runs and long tempo workouts require a high level of firmness and cushioning. If this is what you are looking for, these shoes can meet your demands.
The midsole is finished with a layer of firm EVA, so its firmness is up to 26 - 29mm. This makes the heel firmer, but its transition capacity is very smooth. Thus, it helps you run from 12-16 miles comfortably.
The most exciting thing is that you can use it to run in any terrain such as gravel, pavement. Notably, its excellent grip allows you to run on wet or dry areas without slipping.
Although the material on the upper seems thick, it's very breathable even when you wear it on a hot day.
In sum, the incredible cushioning, durability, and construction of Adidas Men's Adizero Boston 8 Running Shoe work well for solid daily training. Meanwhile, its fast feel feature plays a vital role in running in a racing.
We don't recommend this product for a too-tall runner with a weight of 200 lbs since its forefoot cushioning can't withstand for a long run.
Pros
Cons
Adidas company still keeps everything from design to construction as simple as possible, but their small changes in the new version create a fantastic pair of shoes.
6. ASICS Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes - The best technology
Among all products on this list, ASICS Men's Gel-Kayano 26 Running Shoes are integrated with the most advanced technologies, creating a pair of amazing shoes.
The Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL Technology Cushioning System
The GEL cushioning system is added in the midsole - the critical impact area. When combining with the material of the midsole, this system can minimize any shock experienced by your feet. This choice suits sporting activities since it can meet the particular biomechanical demands of athletes. Specifically, it's developed and improved in several densities and shapes to fit different impact requirements perfectly.
I.G.S (Impact Guidance System)
This technical design is based on the human body's philosophy. So, the heel and toe movements and motions will become more natural.
The trusstic system technology
This midfoot technology links the rearfoot with the front foot to decrease the weight of the sole while retaining the structural integrity. What's more, it can shore the midfoot for better propulsion.
Other outstanding features include:
These long-distance running shoes also feature AHAR outsole (Acronym for ASICS High Abrasion Rubber), which offers excellent cushioning and grip. Therefore, you can run on a wide range of different surfaces: from wet to dry conditions. This feature brings high durability, so you can use it for a long time, no matter how the weather is.
These shoes are made from SpevaFoam 45 lasting material, bringing a soft feel and improved comfort.
To provide the best support and comfort for your runs in a long time, the manufacturer has added jacquard mesh upper for better breathability.
These shoes can’t meet the requirement of long-wear comfort (about 8-9 hours).
Pros
Cons
Although these items are a little pricey, you get what you pay for. With a lot of advanced technologies, this is really a worthy investment.
7. HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 6 – The best value for money
It’s straightforward to recognize that HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Bondi 6 Running Shoe is the most expensive product on this list. However, you will get what you pay for with the following outstanding features:
HOKA ONE ONE is one of the most cushioned shoes thanks to the full EVA midsole and early stage meta rocker geometry.
The normal cushioning can keep your feet from sharp objects and feeling hard. Meanwhile, EVA midsoles bring better stability to overcome all challenges and any terrain, put up with heavy people as well as other pressures while walking and running.
The meta-rocker midsole geometry is a unique design, which is the combination of a low-heel-toe differential and a sculpted outsole. This feature results in a unique fulcrum effect like a rocking chair for your natural gait. In sum, these shoes give you a soft pillowy feeling with smooth runs.
Thanks to a stable wide base, these shoes suit long and slow distance as well as recovery runs.
With the durable outsole and midsole, you can run within 200 miles comfortably.
The engineered mesh material provides you with breathability. What's more, this soft mesh is more breathable because it is put cutouts strategically.
However, this feature also leads to a lack of the ability to wick away sweat. You may feel water logged when running in humid weather.
HOKA ONE ONE Men's Bondi 6 running shoe comes with many color options. And each of them is the unique blend of colors, but a single boring color.
Pros
Cons
With a high cost, you have a long-term investment. You can use it for many different purposes with a lot of outstanding features.
8. Saucony Freedom ISO 2 Running Shoe - The smoothest motions
Saucony Men's Freedom ISO 2 Running Shoe can help you create smooth and safe running movements and motions. This is thanks to the combination of a full-length EVERUN midsole, ISOFIT upper, and crystallized rubber outsole.
The full-length EVERUN midsole is added between your foot and the ground for your soft landings and springy takeoffs. What's more, there is an additional thin layer of topsole to expand the cushioning. ISOFIT is a premium fit construction, which helps you minimize pressure points caused by your feet and the upper.
Meanwhile, the crystallized rubber outsole can provide runners with good traction, durability for your smooth running feel. In particular, the grooves cut out in this outsole shows the high flexibility, meeting some weight purposes.
And the full-length outsole is also the drawback of these shoes. Although it can improve flexibility, at the same time, this feature makes the bottom heavier.
The slightly wide toe box fits people with wide toes. You can wear for a long day without pain or discomfort.
Like the product above, Saucony Freedom ISO 2 running shoe has a lot of color choices and sizes. Though this is a product for men, the combination of colors is so eye-catching and impressive. Of course, there are available neutral colors for people who love simplification. Depending on your preference and running style, just pick up the most appropriate shoes.
Note: The size of these shoes is too big. For other shoes, if your size is 10, you will fit into size 9 of Saucony Men's Freedom ISO 2 running shoe.
Pros
Cons
If your top priority is the comfortable running feel with smooth motions and movements, these shoes are a great choice.
9. Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 Running Shoe - The best comfort
Because of the nice cushioning, Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 is a pair of very comfortable shoes.
The simple upper that isn't seamless, knitted, and doesn't come with 3D printed overlays creates incredible comfort. And the air mesh is so breathable that your feet cool during your run without discomfort.
It's perfectly fitted with wide and soft toe box, firm but not constrictive midfoot, and a good lock on the heel. Thus, it doesn't matter to run 100km when wearing these shoes.
To maximize comfort, the manufacturer has applied 2 different foam compounds in the midsole.
While Mizuno U4ic midsole is very lightweight and pretty responsive, the U4icX Heel Wedge layer designed on the top is softer, providing the smoother lands.
This outsole features a great grip under your heel and ankle to keep you safe while running without causing any unexpected accident. When it comes to flexibility, it allows you to stride at a high degree of control.
These shoes will fit your feet perfectly. More than that, they help you relieve stress and pressure caused by your running motions and movements.
You have available five color options. Each of them is the combination of some different colors for an impressive look, such as the blend of dark shadow and black, magnet and lime punch, directoire blue and blue depths, evening blue and cherry tomato, silver, and directoire blue.
For some users only, the laces tend to cut into the top of their feet.
Note: If you tend to land on your midfoot, we don't recommend these shoes because its drop is a bit high, about 12 mm.
Pros
Cons
Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 running shoe can bring maximum comfort. Thus, if you have a high requirement for a pair of running shoes, simply choose it.
10. Skechers Unisex GoRun Razor Hyper Running Shoe - The cheapest item
In spite of a low cost, it doesn't show low quality as well. Even Skechers Unisex GoRun Razor Hyper Running Shoe can meet the requirement of fast performance and distance racing shoe. It provides runners with free pressure, secure fit, and maximum comfort.
Below are the details:
Compared to the UltraFlight midsole, the Razor midsole is 30% more resilient and 15% lighter. However, these features don't lose firmness. Although it provides some bounce, you still can control your runs.
The upper is made from the light, thin, and breathable material, so your feet cool during your long run. At the same time, the collar, tongue, and the Achilles area are padded very well for smooth movements.
Its aggressive traction of the outsole allows you to run in a wide range of surfaces (wet or dry condition) without causing unexpected falls. Furthermore, the narrow strips of rubber expand the traction.
Finally, please take a look at our favorite features:
When being tightened, the laces respond very well. After tightening your laces, the shoes' 3D printed overlays in the midfoot will lock your feet down sturdily.
If your heels are sensitive, here is good news. The mild heel counter in the rearfoot will offer structure to the upper and keep the flexibility without causing any issue.
A small disadvantage of this design is the thin outsole of the heel and forefoot. But, you don't have to worry because of the decent cushioning.
Pros
Cons
If you have a tight budget but want to buy a pair of good running shoes, helping you run comfortably, Skechers Unisex GOrun Razor 3 Hyper running shoe is what you are looking for.
How to Choosing the Best long distance running shoes?
You need to keep in mind the following considerations before going to a shop or visiting a website:
Your running terrain
Different terrains need different types of shoes, as follows:
Road
In this case, you need a pair of running shoes that can put up with pavement and some surfaces with little irregularities. They should be light and flexible. Especially, your shoes must cushion and stabilize your feet perfectly so that your repetitive strides become smoother on even a hard surface.
Trail
An off-road route usually has roots, mud, rocks, and other obstacles. Thus, your pair of shoes must support and protect your feet thoroughly with aggressive tread, solid traction, and stability.
Cross-training
In this case, the thick platform sole plays a very critical role in supporting your gym and Crossfit workouts, or other balance activities, which require you contact with the ground more.
Your running mechanics
The wear pattern on the sole will let you know your running mechanics. So, please check your well-used pair of long-distance running shoes:
Pronation
The wear pattern of pronation centralizes to the ball of your foot and a small portion of your heel. Specifically, pronation is the natural inward roll of your foot, which follows your heel to strike the ground.
This running mechanic absorbs impact to relieve pressure on your joints and knees. This is a standard feature of a neutral and efficient runner.
Overpronation
The wear pattern of the overpronation running mechanic is shown through along the inside edge of your shoes. It means that the natural inward roll of your foot is exaggerated.
If you have this feature, you may expose your knee to the risk of pain and injury. Thus, we strongly recommend you invest in a pair of motion control shoes with high stability.
Related: Running Shoes for Overpronation
Supination (underpronation)
For supination, you will see the sign of wear along the outer edge of your shoe. Specifically, your foot's outward rolling leads to reducing the insufficient impact at landing.
If you are in this case, please consider buying a pair of shoes with a lot of flexibility and cushioning.
Types of your long distance running shoes
There are five types of long-distance running shoes. You can refer to them to pick up the most appropriate one:
Neutral shoes
These shoes are designed for mild pronators, neutral runners, or those who tend to roll outward. It is because they offer media (arch-side) support and shock absorption.
If you need better shock absorption, we highly recommend a pair of super-cushioned shoes with 50% more cushioning.
Stability shoes
If your running style is from mild to moderate overpronation, it is better to invest in a pair of shoes with high stability. It will reinforce the midsoles' arch side to avoid the massive impact of overpronation.
Motion-control shoes
This type of shoe works well for runners with moderate to serious overpronation. These shoes come with stiffer heels to keep your feet from the overpronation.
Barefoot shoes
The majority of barefoot runners usually strike their mid-foot or forefoot to the ground first. Thus, the soles provide your feet with the minimum protection from the potential risks on the ground. Even many of them don't come with any heel pad, or they have only a 3-4mm layer of cushion.
Minimalist shoes
These shoes usually come with a very lightweight construction without arch support (or little). This design helps runners have more natural motions of running. Some minimalist shoes have high stability that is convenient to transition from the overpronation to barefoot running motion.
Other features of the running shoes
You also need to consider each part of a shoe carefully:
Running shoe upper
Below are four types of running shoe uppers available on the market:
Synthetic leather
Synthetic leather is principally derived from polyester and nylon, so it is durable, supple, and abrasion-resistant. You can expect a pair of light, quick-to-dry, and breathable shoes, especially, the break-in-time is so fast.
Nylon and nylon mesh
These materials are durable, so they are used to boost the breathability and decrease the weight of the long-distance running shoes.
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)
It is added over the breathable shoe panels, such as in your heel and your arch. Its small and abrasion-resisting additions can improve the durability and stability of your shoes.
Waterproof uppers
Waterproof uppers have a membrane bonded to the linings to black moisture. It plays a vital role in running in a wet environment to keep your feet dry. But, you may need to sacrifice the breathability slightly.
Running shoe midsoles
First of all, you need to know that the midsole is the cushioning layer between the upper and the outsole.
EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
EVA is the most common foam for midsoles of running shoes. While cushioning shoes apply one layer of EVA, many ones use several densities of EVA for a particular flex pattern.
Post
It is firmer than EVA, so the post is used to add a hard-to-compress section in your shoes' midsole. Post material creates a pair of stable shoes, boosts durability, and decelerates pronation. Meanwhile, medial posts will reinforce the midsoles' arch side, where it is strongly impacted by overpronation.
Plates
These plates are pretty thin and quite flexible so that they can stiffen your shoes' forefoot. If you are a trail runner, plates can keep your feet from the impacts of roots and rocks.
Shanks
When it comes to shanks, they can stiffen your midsoles to protect your arch and heel when running on rocky terrain.
TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane)
It is added into shoes that require high stabilization.
Running shoe outsoles
The majority of the road running shoes' heel is made from a rugged carbon rubber. Specifically, the forefoot uses blown rubber to get more cushioning. Meanwhile, the trail running shoes' outsoles are carbon rubber that can put up with trail wear. If you are a road-racing runner, blown rubber will help you minimize the weight.
FAQs about Long Distance Running Shoes
Q1: How many miles should you run in a marathon shoe?
If you are a marathoner, our advice is that you should use your running shoes between 50-150 miles.
Q2: How do you know if your running shoes are too big?
If you don't try on your new shoes before buying, it's straightforward to purchase a pair of long-distance running shoes with an incorrect size. Here are signs which let you know about your wrong decision:
Sometimes, your heel slips, especially when running uphill. To reduce slippage, you can lace the shoes up through the last eyelet.
If you just feel comfortable when pulling the laces tightly, it means that your running shoes are too big. In this case, you can put your fingers behind your heel to test.
Can you leave more than one finger inside while your toes touch the top?
If yes, it's too long.
While walking, your feet slide back and forth or side to side, right?
This is a sign of a big size.
Q3: How do you tell when running shoes are worn out?
In this part, you will know that when your running shoes are worn out and need to be replaced:
Your pain and discomfort
Once you buy a right-sized pair of running shoes, in the first period, you will feel extremely comfortable and smooth to run. However, over miles pass by, the cushioning of your shoes will be worn out. At this time, even the look is in good shape; it's essential to replace a new one.
Visible shoe wrinkles
Wrinkle lines are a sign of your overcompressed midsole, resulting in a negative impact of the support on your shoes. It may be hard to recognize this sign because the compression happens very slow.
Worn soles
In case the treads are smoothly worn in the midfoot area, you should purchase a new pair of running shoes. It is because the outsole is worn as well.
Blisters
If, after your regular runs, your shoes start blisters, it means that they have stretched. Even yours comes with significant structural design, holding your foot in place, they can break down.
Mileage
If you use your high-quality shoes for more than 400 miles, we think that this is an ideal time to buy a new pair of shoes.
To keep track of your mileage, you can use a fitness app.
Run With Your New Long-distance Running Shoes Now!
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