Carbon Plated Running Shoe Resource Page
The current trend in racing shoes has been toward super foams and carbon fiber plates. Although plates have been used in the past, their popularity has surged. A new age of fast shoes has come about and now a variety of companies have released their products (some in small batches). For the first time (almost ever) there is an interest from the general public (and not just the competitive runners) in finding the fastest shoe to get them across the finish line. We at Doctors of Running thought it would be helpful to have a guide to all the current models to help you choose if and which one may be right for you.
About this Page
The following page features all the currently available/soon to be available carbon plated shoes we have discussed at Doctors of Running. This feature is updated on a regular basis when new shoes arrive and are reviewed at Doctors of Running
Latest Page Updates
Added Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro, New Balance Supercomp Trainer, Asics Magic Speed 2
Additional Resources
All about Midsoles (Podcast)
What is the Role of Carbon Plates in Shoes (Video)
Most Stable Shoes for Racing (Video)
Best Carbon Plated Shoes Based on Running Economy (Podcast)
Guide to Training into Super Shoes (Video)
Best Marathon Shoes for Those with Stability Needs, 2022 (Video)
The Science of Rocker Sole Shoes (Podcast)
Update on PEBAX Research (New!) (Feature)
What is the Role of Carbon Plates in Shoes (Video)
Most Stable Shoes for Racing (Video)
Best Carbon Plated Shoes Based on Running Economy (Podcast)
Guide to Training into Super Shoes (Video)
Best Marathon Shoes for Those with Stability Needs, 2022 (Video)
The Science of Rocker Sole Shoes (Podcast)
Update on PEBAX Research (New!) (Feature)
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Carbon Plated Shoes
From A to Z, a list of carbon plated shoes we've looked at at Doctors of Running to date. Only the latest version in the series is available (for example Saucony Endorphin Pro 3).
361 Flame
REVIEW
361 Flame
Price: $160Weight: 7.7 oz (men's size 9), not provided (women's size 8)Measured Weight Men's Size 10:Stack Height: 32 mm / 24 mm (not including insole)Drop: 8 mmClassification: Carbon Fiber Racing Shoe
The 361 Flame is a "budget" carbon fiber racing shoe that was designed
with enough durability for daily training. A secure upper in the
heel and midfoot is paired with a very wide forefoot that allows plenty
of room for toe splay for those who want it. A firmer ride with one of
the highest levels of stability of all of the carbon plate racing shoes
occurs due to a (overly) rigid plate. The transition will be too firm
and rigid for most people to daily train in, but will work well as an
aggressive but stable 5k to half marathon racer. For those with wider
feet or wanting a wide forefoot paired with a very stable and rigid
ride, the 361 Flame is a good option at a more friendly price compared
to other shoes in this category.
Price: $249.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 7.6 oz, 215 g (men's size 9), Women's Weights Not Provided
Stack Height: 39.5 / 33 mm
Drop: 6.5 mm
Classification: Long Distance Racing Shoe (Super Shoe)
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 returns as a max stack height racing shoe geared toward longer distance and marathon racing. A wider sole balances out the shoe, making it feel more cushioned from heel to toe. Two layers of Lightstrike Pro contribute to this, with additional stiffness from the new full-length ENERGYRODS 2.0. A new outsole makes the shoe far more durable, which combined with the increased cushioning and inherently more stable ride makes it excellent as a long run and uptempo long run shoe. The upper finally fits true to size, while still providing plenty of room and security. The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 is for those who want a marathon shoe that has the cushioning and durability to double for both training and racing.
Adidas Avanti Tokyo
REVIEW | SHOP
Adidas Adizero Avanti Tokyo
Price: $149.95
Weight: 5.6 oz / 159 g (men's size 9) Not Provided (women's size 8)
Stack Height: Not Provided
Drop: Not Provided
Classification: Distance Track Spike
The Adidas Adizero Avanti TYO is for those wanting a track spike with
extra protection. Designed with inspiration from Adidas's road racing
shoes, the Avanti TYO features a full length Lightstrike Pro midsole and
glass fiber rods. A thin but secure upper sits up top, providing a
solid fit that drains well enough to handle both dry and wet track
events. Best for distance races from 3k-10k, the Avanti TYO is both
snappy and protective for a track spike.
Adidas Adizero Prime X
The Adidas Adizero Prime X is a long distance training/uptempo shoe that provides a smooth ride, a super high stack height and two layers of carbon infused rods and carbon blades. With a 50 mm of Lighstrike Pro in the heel, this is the largest stack height of any known running shoe on the market. A wider but super thin upper provides plenty of room in the toe box while still providing a secure heel. The fit is actually slightly big, so many people may want to consider going down a half size. The ride is the smoothest of any of the super shoes on the market. Despite the numerous stiffening agents in the midsole, the triple layers of Lightstrike Pro and the significant rocker provides a very natural feeling ride at recovery, easy and uptempo paces. Despite the DNA, the Prime X is too large to be used as a racing shoe for most below marathon distances and instead serves as a unique training option/companion to other super shoes.
Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 8
Asics Magic Speed 2
Adidas Adizero Prime X
REVIEW | SHOP
Adidas Adizero Prime X
Price: $249.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: Not Provided (men's size 9) Not Provided (women's size 8)Measured Weight Men's US size 9.5: 9.6 oz / 272 g
Stack Height: 50 mm / 40 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Classification: Ultra Max Stack Height Training Shoe
The Adidas Adizero Prime X is a long distance training/uptempo shoe that provides a smooth ride, a super high stack height and two layers of carbon infused rods and carbon blades. With a 50 mm of Lighstrike Pro in the heel, this is the largest stack height of any known running shoe on the market. A wider but super thin upper provides plenty of room in the toe box while still providing a secure heel. The fit is actually slightly big, so many people may want to consider going down a half size. The ride is the smoothest of any of the super shoes on the market. Despite the numerous stiffening agents in the midsole, the triple layers of Lightstrike Pro and the significant rocker provides a very natural feeling ride at recovery, easy and uptempo paces. Despite the DNA, the Prime X is too large to be used as a racing shoe for most below marathon distances and instead serves as a unique training option/companion to other super shoes.
Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 8
REVIEW | SHOP
Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 8
Price: $180
Weight: 6.8 oz / 192 g (men's size 9/women's size 10 - unisex sizing)
Stack Height: 33 mm / 27 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Classification: Racing Flat
Price: $180
Weight: 6.8 oz / 192 g (men's size 9/women's size 10 - unisex sizing)
Stack Height: 33 mm / 27 mm
Drop: 6 mm
Classification: Racing Flat
The Adidas Adizero Takumi Sen 8 is a highly cushioned but lightweight 5k/10k racing flat. Featuring a performance upper modeled after the preferences of elite Japanese distance runners (wider forefoot) and a lightweight but surprisingly high stack of Lighstrike Pro, the Takumi Sen 8 is light enough for 5k-10k racing for most, but those who are used to the more traditional bare-bones racing flats will be able to take this much farther. Continuing to use carbon rods that are thinner and provide more flexibility than other models, the Adidas Takumi Sen 8 provides something a little different than what has been on the market recently.
Asics Magic Speed 2
REVIEW | SHOP
Price: $149.95 at Running Warehouse
Measured Weight: 8.4 oz, 238 g (men's size 9), 7.1 oz, 200 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: Men's: 31mm/24mm, Women's: 30mm / 23 mm
Drop: 7mm
Classification: Carbon Plated Racing Shoe
The ASICS Magic Speed 2 is carbon plated racing shoe for those who want a nimble, slightly snug-fitting, snappy shoe for workouts and faster running. An engineered mesh sits up top, providing a slightly snug but secure fit. A FlyteFoam Blast+ topsole combined with a carbon plate provides a firmer and snappy ride. Best for those who want a stiffer, firmer and nimble shoe for tempo runs, intervals and racing, the ASICS Magic Speed 2 is a unique and more affordable alternative racing shoe.
Asics Metaspeed Edge+
Price: $249.95
Weight: 7.4 oz, 210 g (men's size 9), Women's Weights Not Provided
Stack Height: 39 mm / 31 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Classification: Distance Racing Shoe (Super Shoe)
The ASICS Metaspeed Edge+ is a carbon fiber plated racing shoe for 5k to the marathon. As part of a pair of max stack height racing shoes from ASICS, the Edge+ differentiates itself with a slightly higher 8mm drop and a smoother/rockered ride. A snug, comfortable, thin, and secure upper sits up top and will work best for those with normal to narrow feet. Meanwhile, a large amount of Flytefoam Turbo sits underneath at a maximal stack height. Combined with a curved carbon plate, the shoe provides a responsive, slightly firm and rolling ride underfoot that handles both workouts and longer efforts. Best for those wanting a fast, efficient shoe over longer distances, the ASICS Metaspeed Edge + has finally become a super shoe.
Asics Metaspeed Sky+
REVIEW | SHOP
Asics Metaspeed Sky
Price: $249.95
Weight: 7.2 oz / 205 g (men's size 9
Stack Height: 39 mm / 34 mm
Drop: 5 mm
Classification: Carbon Fiber Plated Marathon Shoe
The ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ is a lower drop, carbon plated, nylon-based superfoam distance racing shoe. Evolving into a completely different shoe from its predecessor, it features a more aggressive geometry, a slightly firmer ride and a now true-to-size fit. The low drop, high amount of forefoot cushioning and aggressive toe spring make it ideal for those who land farther forward or in the words of ASICS increase their speed by increasing their side length. A flatter plate sits closer to the foot, contributing to the slightly firmer ride that will excel for most from 5k to half marathon distances.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 2
REVIEW | SHOP
Price: $250 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 7.4 oz, 210 g (men's size 9, Unisex Sizing),
Stack Height: 35 mm / 27 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Classification: Carbon Fiber Plated Distance Racing Shoes
The Brooks Hyperion Elite 2 is a long-distance carbon plated racing shoe and workout shoe for those who want an efficient, rockered, firmer, more naturally stable ride. A complete redo of the midsole with full-length mildly responsive DNA flash and a new heel design makes for a better transition if you land farther back. A slightly firmer and rolling ride make this shoe best for long-distance efforts, while a naturally stable design may keep you a little more centered than other plated shoes. Best for those looking for a workout/longer distance shoe with a solid rocker and firmer ride that is less aggressive than other racing options out there.
Craft CTM Carbon Race Rebel
REVIEW | SHOP
The Craft CTM Carbon Race Rebel is a ultra-distance road racer featuring an high stack height, high drop, stiff carbon plate, firmer midsole and lighter weight. A stiff shoe that has little to no bounce but can roll along for those who do not do well with soft midsoles. The upper features a higher volume fit like other Craft shoes, while fitting slightly short to give it some essence of a racing fit. Fitting alongside other ultramarathon shoes like the Carbon X, the Craft CTM Carbon Race Rebel is a firm carbon plated shoe for long efforts and potentially fast efforts if you can already move at higher speeds.Price: $250 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 7.05 oz, 200 g (men's size 9), *Women's weights not provided*
Stack Height: 40 mm / 30 mm
Drop: 10 mm
Classification: Racing Flat
Hoka Bondi X
REVIEW | SHOP
Weight: 10.6oz/300g (men's size 9); 9.1oz/257g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 33mm/28mm (men's); 31mm/26mm (women's)
Drop: 5mm
Classification: Max Cushion Trainer
The Bondi X has a lot going on, and ultimately it results in a genuinely enjoyable ride on the roads. It is very soft with a moderately rigid carbon plate that spans the length of the shoe to help stabilize the foam, and the typical HOKA geometry provides smooth transitions as well. This shoe is the best "rock catcher" I've had in a while, so only on the roads will I go with this strapped to my feet. Ultimately, this shoe has made me think about footwear design more than any other that I've seen so far this year due to the many components.
Hoka Carbon X3
REVIEW | SHOP
Price: $180Measured Weight Sample Men's size 10: 8.9 oz / 252 g
Weight: 7.8 oz, 222 g (men's size 9), 6.6 oz, 188 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: (M) 32 mm / 27 mm (W) 30 mm / 25 mm
Drop: 5mm
Classification: Ultra Marathon Road Racer
The HOKA Carbon X3 returns with a performance knit upper for a more flexible fit and a slightly softer midsole that improves on the ride of the previous version. The knit upper provides a slightly snug but adjustable fit, allowing for swelling accommodation over long miles. The sole design is similar to the previous version, with a slightly softer midsole that makes the ride a bit more forgiving. The decreased weight makes the shoe feeling lighter on the feet, but the forgiving midsole and flexible upper relaxes the aggressiveness of the prior version. Those looking for an ultramarathon racing shoe or plated long run shoe with a flexible upper for longer or uptempo miles will enjoy the Carbon X3.
Hoka Cielo
REVIEW | SHOP
Price: $159.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 3.7 oz, g (Unisex men's size 9)
Stack Height: 12 mm / 8 mm
Drop: 4 mm
Classification: Carbon Plated Distance Track Spike
Matt: The Hoka Cielo X LD is a distance track spike featuring a Cielo inspired upper design, a carbon plate and one of the lightest distance spike on the market. The ride, while minimal, is surprisingly cushioned while coming in at 3.7 oz. The plate is snappy, but combined with some gentle toespring and a forefoot PEBAX plate, the transition off the toes is solid. The upper is secure and comfortable, making it optimal for sockless wear. A track spike with versatility for cross country, those who want the lightest possible ride with some snap should check the Hoka Cielo X LD out.
Hoka Rocket X
REVIEW | SHOP
Hoka Rocket X
Price: $199.95
Weight: 7.4 oz (men's size 9)
Stack Height: Not Provided
Drop: 5mm
Classification: Carbon Fiber Plated Distance Racer
The Rocket X is a high stack height elite racing shoe for those looking for a shoe that is soft, yet still very firm through the midfoot and forefoot. The ride is very smooth with a slight bounce and feels really fluid on the road. With how stiff the plate is, the shoe does not feel vaporfly soft, but still protective enough and arguably smoother in its transition points. The shoe will probably work for a larger population for the transitions feel much more natural than some of the other super shoes on the market, though not quite as "explosive". This is DEFINITELY worth a look when comparing the elite racing flats.
Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro
Review
Mizuno Wave Rebellion ProPrice: $249.95, coming January
Weight: 7.9 oz, g (men's size 9), oz, g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: Not Provided
Drop: 4.5 mm
Classification: Super Shoe, Racing Shoe
Mizuno is known to take time with releasing new product concepts. Despite its history with racing shoes, one of the last major Mizuno racers widely available in the US was the Mizuno Wave Universe series. It was one of the lightest racing shoes on the market (version 5 was the lightest at 2.8 oz for men's size 9). Gone are the days of super light and minimal racing shoes as the maximal super shoes have taken over. After a long wait, Mizuno is finally releasing its super shoe. Like the Mizuno Wave Universe series, the Rebellion Pro takes its place among the best racing shoes on the market, but with a far different footprint from both a sustainability standpoint and literally as it is a massive super shoe.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Pacer
Review | Shop Women | Shop Men
Price: $149.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 6.9 oz, 198 g men, 5.5 oz, 156 g woman
Stack Height: unknown
Drop: 8mm
Classification: 5k/10k racer
The New Balance FuelCell SC Pacer has that super shoe bounce to it, although it is definitely firmer than any others in the category. The lower stack height makes it feel more like a racing flat, but the FuelCell foam and the full length carbon plate give it that familiar super shoe feeling. I consistently noticed an increase in pace at a given effort level, even when running easy. The ride of the Pacer is what I originally imagined when I heard that running companies were coming out with 5k/10k super shoes.
New Balance RC Elite v2
REVIEW | SHOP
New Balance RC Elite 2
Price: $229.95
Weight: 7.7 oz / 218 g (men's size 9) 6.5 oz / 184 g (women's size 8)Sample Weight Men's Size 10 US: 8.2 oz
Stack Height: 32 mm / 22 mm (not including insole)
Drop: 10 mm Drop (per New Balance)
Classification: Carbon Fiber Plated Long Distance Racing Shoe
The New Balance FuelCell RC Elite v2 is a very soft, highly cushioned, high stack height marathon racing shoe. A wider, slightly short and stretching upper provides a secure fit. The FuelCell midsole is incredibly soft and abundant. Featuring a more centered and cushioned ride than the previous, those looking for a soft, max cushion carbon fiber plated racing shoe for long distances including the half marathon to marathon and beyond will enjoy this shoe.
New Balance Supercomp Trainer
REVIEW | SHOP
Price: $179.95 at Running Warehouse
Measured Weight: 11 oz, 312g (men's size 10), Women's Weights Not Provided
Stack Height: 47 mm / 39 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Classification: Super Training Shoe
The New Balance SC Trainer is a maximum cushioning trainer that utilizes new materials to deliver a ride with the goal of making each stride effortless. The shoe uses the FuelCell midsole materials in the RC Elite and TC, though does feel a little firmer in this model specifically. The shoe features a highly rockered ride throughout with a few elements throughout to help with stabilizing this much shoe. Overall, an easy day shoe that does a really good job of getting in rhythm, and potentially a racing shoe for those looking to finish marathons at a more recreational level.
Nike Vaporfly Next% 2
REVIEW | SHOP
Nike Vaporfly Next% 2
Price: $249.95
Weight: 6.9 ounces, 195 g (men's size 9), 5.8 ounces, 164 g (women's size 8)Stack Height: 40mm rearfoot // 32mm forefootDrop: 8 mmClassification: Racing Shoe
The Nike Next% 2 is a top shelf racing shoe that adds a more comfortable upper to the performance giant. Zoom X is a PEBAX based midsole that is coupled with a carbon fiber plate that seems to help with both stabilizing the foam and providing a nice combination of cushion and responsiveness. The Next% 2 is most likely the shoe you will see on the majority of marathon athletes but now has some stiff competition around it. For being at 40mm of stack in the heel, 6.9 ounces is a pretty solid weight as well.
Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next%
REVIEW | SHOP
Nike Alphafly Next%
Price: $274.95
Weight: 7.4 oz (Men's size 9)
Measured weight: (Men's size 9.5): 8.1 ounces
Stack Height: 40mm/36mm
Drop:4mm
Classification: Elite Racing Shoe
The Nike Alphafly Next% offers a shoe with elite level cushioning and responsiveness in the same package. The weight does come up a little bit from the Vaporfly Next% but this is a calculated move on Nike's part. The shoe offers more cushioning, a carbon fiber plate known as Flyplate, and 2 Air Zoom pods in the forefoot. The shoe feels very unique and responds well to high force exerted on it. The shoe is definitely a racing shoe worth considering for specific populations.
Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next% 2
REVIEW | SHOP
Price: $275 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 8.4 oz, 238 g (men's size 9.5)
Stack Height: not provided (likely 40mm/36mm like version 1)
Drop: 4mm
Classification: Road Racing Super Shoe
The Alphafly Next% 2 is a top shelf racing option that leans towards the longer distances. My pair, Men's 9.5, weighs 8.4 ounces, which is heavier from 8.1 ounces in my originals. The shoe still provides a sense of bounciness and responsiveness, though with a little more structure underfoot. The shoe is still a racing shoe, but feels a little less "fast" and more of a shoe that is rhythmic that you can have on your feet for a long time. The Alphafly Next% 2 is a racing shoe with some decent stability elements that can easily tackle a marathon and half marathon.
The North Face Vectiv Flight
REVIEW | SHOP
Weight: 10.4 oz / 295 g (men's size 9) 8.9 oz / 252 g (women's size 8)Stack Height: 34 mm / 28 mmDrop: 6 mmClassification: Carbon Fiber Plated Trail Racing Shoe
The North Face Flight Vectiv is a trail racing shoe for ultramarathon distances and those who want a carbon fiber plated ride. Featuring a moderate rocker reminiscent of the Pearl Izumi trail series and several stability elements from the plate, the Flight Vectiv can pick up the pace on the trail and works extremely well bombing downhill. The plate and the Vectiv midsole provide a slightly firmer ride, A kevlar/matryx reinforced midfoot provides some security while a knit upper allows for some toe splay and swelling accommodation. The fit is fairly average with a little wiggle room from the knit, although a thick toe guard tapers the toebox. For those looking for a plated ultramarathon racer or a daily trainer for those used to running in lighter shoes for shorter distances, the Flight Vectiv is an interesting first attempt from The North Face.
On Cloudboom Echo
REVIEW
On Cloudboom EchoPrice: $270
Weight: 7.8 oz, 220 g (men's size 9), 6.7 oz, 190 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: Not Provided
Drop: 9 mm
Classification: Marathon/Distance Carbon Plated Racing Shoe
The On Cloudboom Echo is a higher stack height, carbon-speedboard racing shoe for those wanting a firmer, rockered ride for middle to longer distance racing. The upper fits slightly long but has a comfortable mesh up top. The midsole features On's Helion midsole and clouds, making for a firmer ride despite being the softest On shoe yet. Finally, a rockered sole with a carbon-infused speed board creates a snappy ride that quickly increases in flexibility with additional miles. Best for 10k to half marathon racing for most people, the On Cloudboom Echo is a step forward for On, but has a great deal of improvement needed to be on par with the current group of max stack height marathon racing shoes.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite
REVIEW | VIDEO
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite
Price: $200
Weight: 6.7 ounces (men's size 9) 5.7 ounces (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 36mm heel/ 28mm forefoot
Drop: 8 mm drop
Classification: Elite Racing Shoe, Super ShoePricing: $200.00 US
A true addition to the super shoe category, the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite blazes onto the scene. Featuring a carbon fiber plate and nitrogen infused PEBA midsole, this shoe has some solid bounce. With a comfortable upper (no heel counter) providing more room than expected for a racing shoe, there is adequate room for swelling while providing enough lock down to go fast. The foam is the closest thing to ZoomX that I have experienced, but is far more natural and controlled. As the most natural feeling super shoe and one of the lightest, this is a serious shoe that currently checks the box as my favorite racing shoe in a long time for 10k to marathon.
Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite
REVIEW
Puma Fast-R Nitro ElitePrice: $250 at Puma (availability expected to open this summer)
Weight: 7.5 oz, 212 g (men's size 9), 6.1 oz, 173 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 35 mm / 27 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Classification: Elite Distance Racing Shoe
The Puma Fast-R is a top-shelf racing shoe featuring a few unique
characteristics. The Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite utilizes two different
midsole foams as well as a decoupled midsole connected by the carbon
plate. The plate is spooned out heavily riding high in the heel and
lowering sharply through the forefoot. The heel is a firmer EVA with the
forefoot being a softer and bouncier PEBA-based midsole for
responsiveness. The result is a quickly transitioning and responsive
ride.
Reebok Floatride Energy X
REVIEW
Reebok Floatride Energy XPrice: $170 at Reebok
Weight: 9.1 oz, 258 g (men's size 9/women's size 10.5) UNISEX SIZING
Stack Height: Not Provided
Drop: 6 mm
Classification: Forefoot Plated Marathon Racer / Performance Trainer
The Reebok Floatride Energy X is a soft, max cushioned, forefoot plated
performance shoe touted as the "people's marathon racer." Featuring a
huge slap of Floatride Energy foam underfoot, the midsole is soft
throughout the length of the sole. The ride is moderately bouncy with
some degree of ridigity in the forefoot, making for a performance
trainer that works well for longer efforts like long runs and tempo
runs. The additional weight and cushioning create a sturdy shoe that
will work for those looking for a marathon shoe to get them through
their longer races and workouts without being as aggressive as some of
the other options out there.
Saucony Endorphin Elite
REVIEW | SHOP
Price: $274.95 at Running Warehouse
Weight: 7.2 oz, 204 g (men's size 9), 6.5 oz, 185 g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 39.5 mm / 31.5 mm
Drop: 8mm
Classification: Elite Distance Racing Shoe
Saucony has taken their super shoes to another level with the Endorphin Elite. The reported 95% energy return from the PWRRUN HG foam make the shoe the most responsive Endorphin yet and the more aggressive forefoot rocker give this shoe pop at push-off that the more rolling Endorphin Pro line lacks. The Endorphin Elite has a wider and less tapered toe box than any of the Endorphin Pro shoes, making it a high-performance and accommodating option for races up to marathon distance.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
REVIEW | SHOP
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
Price: $225
Weight: 7.2 oz, 204g (men's size 9), 6.2 oz, 176g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 39.5 mm / 31.5 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Classification: Carbon Fiber Plated Distance Racing Shoe
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 is a fast, bouncy, max stack height, carbon fiber plated distance racing shoe that truly has achieved a "super shoe" status. A maxed-out midsole features 39.5mm/31.5mm of PWRRUN PB, providing a bouncy and fast ride. A snug but comfortable upper provides a highly secure and incredibly breathable fit. A new midsole geometry provides a guided and inherently stable ride. Combined with a new, lighter weight, all this together makes for an extremely fast, yet comfortable shoe that has the comfort for the marathon and the responsiveness/speed for some down to the 5k.
Saucony Endorphin Pro+ (limited release)
REVIEW
Saucony Endorphin Pro+
Weight: 6.9 oz / 195 g (men's size 9) 5.9 oz / 168g (women's size 8)
Stack Height: 35.5 mm / 27.5 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Classification: Racing Shoe (Carbon Plated / Peba Foam)
The Saucony Endorphin Pro + is an Endorphin Pro 2 with a track
spike-like upper. Dropping the weight to under 7 ounces, this racing
shoe is comfortable from the 5k up to the marathon. A completely updated
upper features a track spike like, super lightweight and breathable
mesh that hugs the foot well in all the right spots. Despite supposedly
having a similar sole, the lighter weight makes it far easier to turn
over faster in the Pro +, dipping its versatility into shorter
distances. For those who want a super shoe with a track spike upper, the
Saucony Endorphin Pro + is worth a look.
Skechers Speed Freek
REVIEW | SHOP
Weight: 7.2 oz / 238 g (men's size 9) 5.8 oz / 164 g (women's size 8)Sample Weight Men's Size 10: 7.4 ozStack Height: 34 mm / 30 mmDrop: 4 mmClassification: Distance Racing Flat
The Skechers GOrun Speed Freek is Skechers Performance long distance racing shoe. 34 mm of stack height raises the bar (and the midsole) for cushioning while a carbon infused winglet plate provides an efficient toe off. The rockered sole combined with full length HYPERBURST makes for a bouncy ride meant for races from 10k up to the marathon. An incredibly light upper provides a bit more wiggle room and comfort in this model. All this while staying in the low 7 oz range (per our scales). For those wanting a bit more out of the Speed Elite, the Speed Freek will provide some extra protection to take you farther.
Xtep 160X 3.0
REVIEW
XTEP 160x 3.0
Price: Not Provided
Weight: 7.0 oz, 200 g (men's size 8), Women's Weights Not Provided
Stack Height: 39 mm / 31 mm
Drop: 8 mm
Classification: Carbon Plated Superfoam Road Racing Shoe
Xtep 160X Pro
REVIEW
XTEP 160x Pro
Price: $250Weight: 8.9 oz, 255g (men's size 8), Women's Weights Not ProvidedMeasured Weight Men's US Size 10: 8.5 oz / 235 gramsStack Height: 39.5 mm / 36.5 mm
Drop: 4mm
Classification: Marathon Racing Shoe
The Xtep 160x Pro is a highly cushioned, PEBA-foamed, carbon fiber
plated performance trainer. A large amount of foam sits underfoot,
providing plenty of responsive cushioning for easy to tempo paces. A
secure and slightly thinner upper sits up top, providing a racing style
fit that has a little more volume for longer efforts. The Xtep 160x Pro
features a bit more weight and a higher level of durability underfoot,
making it a great option for those who want a lower drop, faster, highly
cushioned performance trainer that can handle long runs, longer racing
and workouts.
Recommendations
Best Neutral Maximal Racing Shoe for Marathon
Nike Alphafly Next% 1
(For those looking for maximal cushioning as high off the ground as possible yet still wanting an aggressive shoe)
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
(Speedroll with max cushion makes for a very bouncy, efficient racing shoe)
Nike Vaporfly Next% 2
(Takes a few miles to break in, but remains a confident racer that's tried and true)
Best Traditional Racing Shoe
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite
(For those looking for a lighter ride with a snugger fit that can handle 5k to marathon, the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite features the most traditional racing flat weight and natural ride)
Best Beginner Marathon Carbon Plated Shoe for Completing Race
Hoka Carbon X2
(Enough cushioning and design similar to a traditional trainer to not be a too aggressive jump with plenty of cushioning and smooth ride)
Most Stable Options
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
(Stable Neutral thanks to width and geometry along with rocker)
Adidas Adios Pro 3
(Widened base and slight lateral bevel helps with stability medially - not laterally for supinators though)
Nike Alphafly Next% 2
(Just mildly stable neutral takes to new widened base and gentler ride than predecessor)
361 Flame
(A super rigid platform ensures you aren't going anywhere, the 361 Flame features the firmest and most aggressive ride of the bunch - may work best for shorter distances though)
Nike Alphafly Next% 1
(For those looking for maximal cushioning as high off the ground as possible yet still wanting an aggressive shoe)
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
(Speedroll with max cushion makes for a very bouncy, efficient racing shoe)
Nike Vaporfly Next% 2
(Takes a few miles to break in, but remains a confident racer that's tried and true)
Best Traditional Racing Shoe
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite
(For those looking for a lighter ride with a snugger fit that can handle 5k to marathon, the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite features the most traditional racing flat weight and natural ride)
Best Beginner Marathon Carbon Plated Shoe for Completing Race
Hoka Carbon X2
(Enough cushioning and design similar to a traditional trainer to not be a too aggressive jump with plenty of cushioning and smooth ride)
Most Stable Options
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
(Stable Neutral thanks to width and geometry along with rocker)
Adidas Adios Pro 3
(Widened base and slight lateral bevel helps with stability medially - not laterally for supinators though)
Nike Alphafly Next% 2
(Just mildly stable neutral takes to new widened base and gentler ride than predecessor)
361 Flame
(A super rigid platform ensures you aren't going anywhere, the 361 Flame features the firmest and most aggressive ride of the bunch - may work best for shorter distances though)
Remember that each person is different and thus may find a different shoe works better for them. Thanks to the incredible variety of the shoes above, that is possible.
Thanks for reading!
Editor's Note: As always, the views presented on this website belong to myself or the selected few who contribute to these posts. This website should not and does not serve as a replacement for seeking medical care. If you are currently injured or concerned about an injury, please see your local running physical therapist.
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