Best Shoes for Running Marathons: Top Picks for 2024

1. New Balance Fuelcell Rebel V5

We’ve put the Men’s FuelCell Rebel V5 through its paces, and it certainly makes a case for itself in the lightweight, responsive category. The FuelCell foam provides a lively sensation underfoot, pushing you forward with each stride. It feels incredibly agile, making tempo runs and shorter races a joy.

During longer efforts, however, the minimal cushioning started to become noticeable after mile 18. While it’s incredibly light, some runners might find themselves wishing for a bit more protection on tired legs during the latter stages of a marathon. The upper is breathable, but the lacing system, while functional, felt a touch less secure than some competitors, requiring a mid-run adjustment once.

This shoe is ideal for runners who prioritize speed and a natural feel over plush cushioning, particularly those aiming for personal bests in half marathons or shorter races. Marathoners who are very accustomed to minimal shoes and have strong legs might consider it, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all marathon solution.

2. Saucony Endorphin Pro 4

The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 is a serious contender for speed demons looking to shave time off their marathon efforts. The combination of the PEBA-based foam and the carbon fiber plate delivers a propulsive feel that genuinely encourages a faster cadence. I noticed a distinct ‘snap’ with every toe-off, which is exactly what you want when pushing the pace late in a race.

While the ride is undeniably fast, the aggressive nature of the plate and foam combination can feel a bit stiff on slower recovery days or for runners not accustomed to plated shoes. The upper, while breathable, felt a little snug around the midfoot for my wider feet, leading to some minor pressure points on longer runs. It demands a certain level of biomechanical efficiency to truly shine.

This shoe is not for the runner seeking a forgiving, plush ride. If you’re a seasoned marathoner with a history of using plated shoes and are focused on performance, the Endorphin Pro 4 is a top-tier option. However, if you’re new to this technology or prefer a softer landing, you might want to look elsewhere.

3. Brooks Glycerin 22 Neutral

The Brooks Glycerin 22 aims for plush comfort, and for the most part, it achieves it. The nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 cushioning provides a soft and protective ride that feels fantastic mile after mile. I found the transition from heel to toe to be exceptionally smooth, which is a significant plus when fatigue starts to set in during those long marathon efforts. This is undoubtedly one of the best shoes for running marathons if comfort is your priority.

The upper is a highlight, offering a secure yet forgiving fit that accommodates swelling feet well. However, I did notice that the overall weight, while not excessive, is noticeable compared to more performance-oriented marathon shoes. For runners who are extremely sensitive to shoe weight or are chasing razor-thin margins, this might be a minor consideration. The outsole grip was adequate on dry pavement but felt a little less confident on wet surfaces.

This shoe is perfect for neutral runners prioritizing maximum cushioning and comfort over a long marathon distance. If you’re looking for a shoe that will cradle your feet and absorb impact, allowing you to focus on your race strategy rather than foot fatigue, the Glycerin 22 is an excellent choice. Runners who need significant stability or prefer a very firm, responsive feel should probably explore other options.

4. Brooks Ghost 17 Neutral

The Brooks Ghost 17 continues its legacy as a reliable workhorse, offering a balanced and comfortable ride that many runners have come to trust. The DNA LOFT v3 cushioning is well-integrated, providing a soft landing without feeling mushy or losing too much ground feel. I appreciated the consistent feel throughout my test runs, making it a dependable choice for daily training and longer efforts.

While the Ghost 17 is a solid all-around performer, it doesn’t offer the same level of responsiveness or propulsive feel as some of its more specialized marathon counterparts. For those seeking to set personal bests and requiring that extra ‘pop’ on race day, this shoe might feel a bit too neutral. The upper, while comfortable, could benefit from a slightly more structured heel counter for enhanced lockdown during fast downhill sections.

This shoe is best suited for neutral runners who want a comfortable, durable, and versatile shoe for a variety of runs, including marathon training. If you value consistent comfort and reliability for everyday miles and are not solely focused on maximizing speed for a marathon, the Ghost 17 is a fantastic option. Runners looking for a dedicated marathon racer with aggressive features should consider other models.

5. Brooks Glycerin 22 Neutral

Similar to its women’s counterpart, the Men’s Glycerin 22 delivers a supremely cushioned experience ideal for long-distance running. The nitrogen-infused DNA LOFT v3 foam is plush, absorbing impact effectively and providing a luxurious feel underfoot. I found the ride to be exceptionally smooth, making it an excellent option for marathon training where sustained comfort is paramount. (See Also: Best Orthotic Work Boots )

While the cushioning is a major strength, the overall weight of the Glycerin 22 is a consideration for runners who demand the absolute lightest shoe for race day. It doesn’t possess the same energetic snap as some plated racers, which might be a minor drawback for those chasing elite times. The upper is quite accommodating, but for runners with very narrow feet, it might feel a touch too spacious, even with the laces tightened.

This shoe is a top choice for neutral runners who prioritize maximum comfort and cushioning for marathon training and race day. If your goal is to minimize impact and stay comfortable for 26.2 miles, this shoe excels. However, runners seeking a lightweight, highly responsive, or aggressively plated shoe for speed-focused marathons might find it lacking in that specific performance aspect.

6. Brooks Glycerin 22 Neutral

Having logged considerable miles in the Glycerin 22, I can confidently say it offers a supremely cushioned ride, ideal for long-distance efforts. The plush feel underfoot is immediately noticeable, absorbing impact with impressive efficiency, which is paramount when tackling marathon distances. The upper is also quite accommodating, allowing for natural foot splay without feeling sloppy.

However, while the cushioning is a major strength, it can sometimes feel a bit *too* soft for faster paces or runners who prefer a more responsive feel. I found myself wishing for a touch more energy return during tempo efforts. It’s a shoe that prioritizes comfort above all else, and that’s not always ideal for every marathon training scenario.

This shoe is specifically for the runner who prioritizes comfort and recovery above all else on their marathon journey. Imagine finishing a 20-mile long run, and your feet feel remarkably fresh, not beaten down by the pavement. That’s the experience the Glycerin 22 aims to deliver, making those tough training weeks more manageable.

For those seeking a firm, propulsive ride or a shoe for sharp, quick turns, the Glycerin 22 might not be your go-to. It excels in its intended role but doesn’t try to be something it’s not.

7. Nike Revolution 8

We tested the Nike Revolution 8 with marathon training in mind, and it provides a decent entry-level option for those on a budget. The shoe offers a straightforward, no-frills experience that gets the job done for daily miles. The outsole grip was reliable on dry pavement, giving us confidence with each stride.

My primary concern with the Revolution 8 for marathon running is its limited cushioning and somewhat basic construction. After longer distances, I noticed a distinct lack of the plushness required to truly protect the legs from repetitive impact. The forefoot felt a bit stiff, which could lead to discomfort over 26.2 miles.

This shoe is best suited for the beginner marathon runner who is just starting their journey and needs a durable, affordable option for shorter training runs or their very first race. It’s a shoe that won’t break the bank while you figure out your running preferences. It’s not designed for the seasoned marathoner seeking peak performance.

If you’re an experienced marathoner looking for advanced cushioning, energy return, or a lightweight racing feel, you should definitely skip the Revolution 8. It’s a solid casual running shoe, but not a top contender for best shoes for running marathons.

8. Brooks Ghost 17 Neutral

The Women’s Ghost 17 continues its legacy as a reliable workhorse, and we found it to be a consistent performer for marathon training. The cushioning strikes a good balance between softness and responsiveness, making it versatile for various types of runs. The upper is breathable and provides a secure, yet comfortable, lockdown.

While the Ghost 17 is a well-rounded shoe, I did find the heel collar to be a tad stiff on initial wear. It required a few runs to break in properly, and there was a slight rubbing sensation during those first outings. It’s a minor annoyance, but worth noting for those with sensitive Achilles areas.

This shoe is for the everyday runner who wants a dependable and comfortable option for their marathon training block, from short jogs to long weekend runs. It’s the kind of shoe you can lace up without thinking and know it will perform admirably, providing consistent support and cushioning.

Runners who are seeking a shoe with a very aggressive, rockered feel or those who need extreme stability should look elsewhere. The Ghost 17 is a neutral shoe that excels in its balanced approach.

9. Adidas Questar 3

During our testing of the Mens Questar 3, we found it to be a solid option for runners who appreciate a slightly firmer, more stable feel during their marathon preparation. The midsole provides a good amount of cushioning that doesn’t feel overly mushy, offering a degree of ground feel that some runners prefer. The overall construction feels durable and built to withstand significant mileage. (See Also: Best Work Boots For Plumbers )

However, I did notice that the shoe lacks a certain ‘pop’ or energy return that can be beneficial during longer marathon efforts. While stable, it felt a bit uninspired in terms of propulsion, making it feel more suited for steady-paced long runs rather than anything with a faster tempo. The tongue also felt a bit too thin for my liking, sometimes shifting during runs.

This shoe is ideal for the marathon runner who values a stable, connected-to-the-ground feel and doesn’t necessarily need a super-plush or highly responsive ride. Think of the runner who enjoys the rhythm of their stride and wants a shoe that supports that consistent pace without any fuss.

If you’re looking for a shoe with a highly energetic, bouncy feel or a very soft, maximalist cushioning setup, the Questar 3 might not fit the bill. It’s a shoe that prioritizes a grounded, stable experience.

10. Carbon Plate Marathon Racing Shoes

We put these carbon-plated racing shoes through their paces, and the sensation is undeniably propulsive. The stiff carbon plate works with the responsive foam to create a feeling of forward momentum with every stride. The lightweight design contributes significantly to reducing fatigue over long distances, making them a tempting option for race day.

My main critique is that the aggressive nature of these shoes can be unforgiving on tired legs during training. The stiffness, while excellent for racing, can sometimes feel harsh during extended marathon training runs, and I experienced a slight discomfort in my arches after particularly long sessions. They also have a very specific fit that might not suit everyone’s foot shape.

These shoes are for the dedicated marathon runner who is specifically targeting a personal best and wants every aerodynamic and biomechanical advantage on race day. They are designed for peak performance over the marathon distance, not for everyday training comfort or recovery.

If you are new to marathon running, prefer a highly flexible shoe, or need significant support for pronation, these carbon-plated racers are likely not for you. They demand a strong, efficient stride to truly shine.