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Whether you're running a 5K or training for a marathon, you need shoes that can take a pounding. That means looking for sneakers that are made with premium materials, like heavy-duty foams and durable rubber outsoles, so that they won't break down prematurely. You also want to prioritize comfort—if your shoes hurt your feet, you're likely not going to make it past mile one.
The best long-distance running shoes offer all these things, plus enhanced stability and support that protects your feet and joints from the wear and tear that can come with distance running. Because everyone has a different gait and a unique stride, keep in mind that there's no one-size-fits-all running shoe.To help you find the best long distance-running shoes for your distance runs, the ACTIVE Reviews Team rounded up their top picks. If you're interested in exploring a wide range of running shoes, not specific to running long-distance, we have compiled a list of the best running shoes available.
Best Long-Distance Running Shoes - Our Top Picks
- Best Overall Long-Distance Running Shoes: Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40
- Best Breathable Long-Distance Running Shoes: Hoka One One Rincon 3
- Best Lightweight Long-Distance Running Shoes: adidas Adizero Adios 7
- Best Versatile Long-Distance Running Shoes: Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Lite-Show
- Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Comfort: Asics GlideRide 3
- Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Women: Brooks Ghost 15
- Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Races: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3
- Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Flat Feet: Saucony Echelon 8
- Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Speed: Salomon Ultra Glide
- Best Budget Long-Distance Running Shoes: Reebok Floatride Energy 3.0
- Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Men: Topo Athletic Ultrafly 3
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com’s editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Overall Long-Distance Running Shoes - Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 40
SPECS
- Weight: 10.9 oz. (men’s 10.5), 8.5 oz. (women’s 8)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Nike React technology, 2 Zoom Air Units
The Nike Pegasus series has landed on the top of “best of” lists year after year. It is not surprising to find the newest iteration, the Pegasus 40, snagging the top spot as our featured pick. Referred to by Nike as the “workhouse” of running shoes, the Nike Pegasus 40 continues to impress its fans as a high-performing, durable, and very comfortable running shoe. When it comes to long-distance running, these are the traits you really look for.
There have been several subtle upgrades from the Pegasus 39, including a padded collar, a larger heel area, and a waffle-like pattern on the outsole for improved traction. An additional flex groove has been added to enhance the shoe's smooth toe-off. But, the biggest improvements in this shoe are the redesigned midfoot band which encourages a secure but forgiving lockdown, and Nike’s React technology with strategically placed cushioning to promote heel-to-toe transitions. One Zoom Air Unit is located in the forefoot and one in the heel, and a breathable single-layer mesh upper. Together, these features make this neutral running show a solid pick for anyone looking to log some decent mileage.
What We Like
- Rubber outsole grip for speedier running
- Wider toe box for a comfortable, roomier fit
- Mesh upper and midfoot webbing add breathability
- Many designs/colors to choose from
What We Don't Like
- Can be difficult to put on
- Some runners experience heel slippage
Best Breathable Long-Distance Running Shoes - Hoka One One Rincon 3
SPECS
- Weight: 6.2 oz. (W), 7.4 oz. (M)
- Drop: 5mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Balanced
If you've never tried a pair of Hoka running shoes, the ultra-lightweight Rincon 3's are an excellent place to start. Weighing in at just 6.2 ounces for the women's version and 7.4 ounces for the men's pair, these durable and comfortable running shoes fare well for all long-distance runs, from the racetrack to the hiking trail to a full marathon.
Like all Hoka shoes, the Rincon 3's have the signature Meta-Rocker midsole, which has a low heel-toe drop and a rounded outsole. This encourages and complements your natural stride while guiding your gait into a smoother roll and contributing to better acceleration. They also have a thick rubber outsole with zoned placement that helps distribute weight evenly and gives you a more stable ride. The asymmetrical tongue provides a more secure fit, while the vented mesh upper adds breathability.
What We Like
- Ultra lightweight
- Signature Meta-Rocker that complements natural stride
- Zoned rubber outsole that helps distribute weight
What We Don't Like
- Not as responsive as previous versions
- Tongue doesn't offer enough cushioning
- Less cushy than others
Best Lightweight Long-Distance Running Shoes - adidas Adizero Adios 7
SPECS
- Weight: 7.7 oz. (size 9)
- Drop: 8mm (heel - 27mm, forefoot - 19mm)
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Lightstrike (lightweight) cushioning
If you're looking for a premium lightweight and responsive shoe that can work with you as you train and set new distance PRs, the adidas adizero Adios 7 is an excellent choice. This highly-rated running shoe—from an iconic brand—features adidas' patented Lightstrike cushioning in the midsole and an upper made from 50% recycled materials.
The Adizero Adios 7 has an excellent grip for navigating various terrain, whether you're on a leisurely hike or running a half marathon. Lastly, wearers cite both the flexibility and comfort of the shoe during activities like interval running and walking long distances.
What We Like
- Patented Lightstrike midsole cushioning excellent for faster running
- Lightweight comfort holds up over long distances
- Grips well on both outdoor terrain and treadmills
- Stylish
What We Don't Like
- Pricier
- Some users report fit problems with the toe box
Best Versatile Long-Distance Running Shoes - Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Lite-Show Running Shoe
SPECS
- Weight: 9.2 oz.
- Drop: 10mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Maximum
If you like to hit the pavement night or day, during any season, the Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Lite-Show's are the running shoes for you. With reflective accents for increased visibility, these sneakers have enhanced cushioning that evenly supports the foot, providing a smoother ride and less impact on your joints.
The Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Lite-Shows also have recycled engineered mesh uppers that are flexible and breathable to keep you cool for the entirety of your long run. Gel and FlyteFoam technologies cushion the foot and absorb impact for maximum comfort.
What We Like
- Extra cushioning
- Visibility-boosting tech
- Breathable mesh uppers
What We Don't Like
- Some people say these shoes are too heavy
BUY: Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 Lite-Show
Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Comfort - Asics GlideRide 3
SPECS
- Weight: 8.1 oz. (W), 10.1 oz. (M)
- Drop: 5mm
- Gait: Under pronation/neutral
- Cushioning: Maximum
All long-distance running shoes are built for comfort to some degree, but the Asics GlideRide 3 puts cushiness at the forefront. The midsoles have two layers of foam—an upper layer that provides extra cushioning and some shock absorption during landings and a bottom layer that adds some bounce and takes the pressure off your foot as it rolls during each stride.
It's not just about the cushion, though. The Asics GlideRide 3's have a more pronounced toe-spring, called Guidesole technology, which helps create a forward rolling motion that reduces ankle flexion and decreases energy consumption during long runs. This translates to less fatigue and muscle discomfort, even when you're logging more miles. They also have a breathable (and recycled) mesh upper, with a balanced outsole with high-abrasion rubber on the outer edges, reducing wear and tear for neutral and supinated runners.
What We Like
- Double foam midsole
- Rounded toe-spring
- Durable outsole that stands up to wear and tear
What We Don't Like
- Might not be suitable for overpronation
- Only available in standard width
Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Women - Brooks Ghost 15
SPECS
- Weight: 8.8 oz.
- Drop: 11.5mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Maximum
Women's feet are distinctively different from men's feet. They're typically narrower in the heel and wider in the forefront. Women are also more likely to overpronate or roll their foot inward as they strike the ground, due to wider hips. Because of this, women’s running shoes need a little more cushioning in the inner sole to help balance things out. The Brooks Ghost 15's fit that bill.
A follow-up to the Ghost 14s, these newer kicks have a little less cushioning than their predecessors, a strategic move that luckily doesn't affect comfort, quality, or performance. They feature padded insoles that cup the feet and help level out your gait, plus a DNA Loft midsole that adds just the right amount of cushion without affecting stability as you pound the pavement. With an 11.5-millimeter drop, these shoes are also ideal for heel-heavy runners. Plus, a well-ventilated mesh upper maximizes airflow during long-distance runs.
What We Like
- Padded insoles that help level out gait
- Standard drop
- Available in 3 widths
What We Don't Like
- On the firmer side
- Larger toe box could be a problem for narrower feet
Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Races - New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3
SPECS
- Weight: 5-8 oz. (Women), 7.4 oz. (Men)
- Drop: 6mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Moderate
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3 shoes help already-fast runners move even faster. These running shoes have a high rebound foam midsole and a full-length carbon fiber plate. Together, these give you some extra bounce and help propel you forward when you're pushing off from the starting line. They have a 6-millimeter drop, which is standard for runners and can translate to a more comfortable heel strike, but this also depends on your individual foot strike and the duration of your race.
At just 5.8 to 7.4 ounces (depending on whether you get the women's or men's version), they're ultra-lightweight so they won't hold you down on race day. And they have a traditional heel collar for a low-profile fit that adequately supports your heels and Achilles, even at top speeds. The rubber outsole is also lightweight but ultra-grippy, which helps you maintain traction and prevents slipping when you're hitting PRs during your races.
What We Like
- Sturdy, lightweight midsole
- High-rebound FuelCell foam for better forward momentum
- Ultra lightweight
- Grippy, even at top speeds
What We Don't Like
- Sizing issues
- Expensive
BUY: New Balance FuelCell Rebel v3
Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Flat Feet - Saucony Echelon 8
SPECS
- Weight: 10.8 oz. (women's), 12.5 oz. (men's)
- Drop: 8mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Moderate
If you have flat feet, you need running shoes with a more supportive sole. Usually, this means a sneaker that's a bit on the firmer side but still has enough cushion to take the pressure off your feet and help absorb impact, since your feet naturally hit the ground harder. And the Echelon 8's excel in this regard: They have a stable platform that provides a roomy base for flat feet and a 3D support frame that hugs the foot and adds stability at the heel. This allows the shoe to conform to you like a custom fit and helps eliminate pain as you log miles.
The flexible outsole moves with your foot, and the removable sock liner adds plushness and support for your (lack of) arches. These sneakers also have a mesh toe box that not only gives you some breathability but also gives your feet room to spread out so you're comfortable even with full impact. At 10.8 to 12.5 ounces, they're definitely on the heavier side, but the optimal support is a worthy trade-off.
What We Like
- Fully supportive frame
- Ultra-flexible outsole that moves with your feet
- Roomy mesh toe box
- Available in 3 widths
What We Don't Like
- On the heavier side
- Heel cushion can wear out quickly
Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Speed - Salomon Ultra Glide
SPECS
- Weight: 7.76 oz.
- Drop: 6mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Maximum
The Salomon Ultra Glides are technically a trail running shoe, but their lightweight construction and firm grip make them our pick for best running shoes for speed, for all types of terrain. The rocker shape—thicker sole with a rounded heel—and responsive foam midsole help propel you forward and allow you to roll off the ground with each stride. And the all-terrain grip makes for a stable run on all types of surfaces: wet, dry, flat, and/or rocky.
The six-millimeter drop is on the lower side, but this is intentional. Combined with the maximum cushioning, this gives the Salomon Ultra Glide a barely-there feel but ensures your feet are protected and comfortable during those extended runs. They're built for stability too. The breathable mesh outer keeps your feet dry to prevent slippage, while the snug-fit inner sleeve keeps your foot in place.
What We Like
- Maximum cushioning
- Rocker shape that helps propel you forward
- Lightweight and breathable
- Available in many colors
What We Don't Like
- Only available in standard width
- Runs large
Best Budget Long-Distance Running Shoes - Reebok Floatride Energy 3.0
SPECS
- Weight: 8.5 oz.
- Drop: 9mm
- Gait: Neutral
- Cushioning: Moderate
Most long-distance running shoes fall around $140 to $150, but you can get this budget-friendly pair for significantly less without sacrificing comfort, performance, or style. Like the higher-end sneakers, the Reebok Floatride Energy 3.0's cover all the bases. They combine an energy foam midsole with a cushioned, flared heel that helps minimize pronation and absorb impact while you cover longer distances. The nine-millimeter drop contributes to a chunkier heel, but it also makes these shoes a good fit for heel-heavy runners.
While they're not as cushy as some of the other options—they're a little on the firmer side but still offer pressure relief—they provide a stable ride and have a nine-millimeter drop that helps reduce calf and Achilles fatigue. They also have a breathable mesh knit upper and a grippy, rubber sole that makes them as durable as they are breathable.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly
- Flared heel that helps neutralize gait
- Good for heel-heavy runners
- Durable and breathable
What We Don't Like
- A little on the firmer side
- Limited color options
BUY: Reebok Floatride Energy 3.0
Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Men - Topo Athletic Ultrafly 3
SPECS
- Weight: 9.6 oz.
- Drop: 5mm
- Gait: Overpronation (light stability)
- Cushioning: Balanced
While women tend to overpronate more than men, most runners have some degree of overpronation. The Topo Athletic Ultrafly 3s are expertly built men’s running shoes for men with natural to slightly overpronated gaits. Runners rave about the slightly wider-than-average toe box and narrower mid-section and heel, making it the ideal combo for a man's foot. Although they're available only in a standard width, they offer plenty of room for wide feet and have arch support that makes them a good option for flat feet, too.
The Ultrafly 3s have a TPU heel counter and an EVA medial post that provide light pronation resistance to neutralize your gait, plus added rear-foot stabilization that's helpful for long runs. The two-density midsoles are moderately cushioned and offer a faster rebound rate and a more comfortable (yet stable) ride. While the 5-mm drop is on the lower side, this is the highest drop that Topo offers. It's ideal for experienced runners and those whose midfoot or forefoot hit the ground first, but it will also work for anyone who wants a close-to-barefoot feel. See our article on the best running shoes for men to view more men's running shoe options.
What We Like
- 2 density midsole offers comfort and support
- Light pronation support
- Roomy toe box
What We Don't Like
- Only available in 1 width
- More suited for experienced runners
- On the heavier side
FAQs About Long-Distance Running Shoes
What shoe is best for running long distances?
There's no single shoe that's best for running long distances, but there are some features you should look for. The best long-distance running shoes are lightweight, breathable, and comfortable. They have added stability features that protect your feet and your ankles and are made of durable materials that can handle regular wear and tear.
Which shoes do marathon runners wear?
Just like shoes come in all shapes and sizes, so do marathon runners (and their feet). That's why there's not one specific shoe that all marathon runners wear. These long-distance runners do tend to lean toward the same features, though. Most marathon runners agree that they look for stability, excellent grip, adequate cushion, and good rebound. Many also prefer lighter-weight shoes that won't weigh them down.
Are running shoes good for everyday use?
Running shoes are designed for comfort and support, so it's perfectly fine to wear them every day. You do need to consider that the more miles you cover, the faster they will wear out though. If you want to wear running shoes every day, consider getting two pairs—one for casual wear and one that you wear only when you're training.
How long do long-distance running shoes last?
Most high-quality long-distance running shoes will last between 300 and 500 miles. Of course, the exact mileage depends on where you run (trail versus pavement) and your gait (overpronation and supination can wear your shoes out faster if you're not wearing the right ones). Your foot strike and build can also affect longevity. To maximize the life of your running shoes, wear them only when you're running and not as your everyday pair.
How do you tell when your running shoes are worn out?
The most obvious sign of wear on your running shoes is the sole. If the sole and treads are worn down, meaning they're smooth instead of textured, it's time to replace your shoes. Excessive wear on the upper, like fraying on the outside, can also signal that your running shoes have reached their maximum lifespan. Uneven wear can also be a sign that you're wearing the wrong running shoes for your gait—excessive wear on the front is usually a sign of overpronation while wearing on the outside signals supination.
Pain in your joints and knees while running and decreased shock absorption are also telltale signs, especially if these things weren't an issue when you first got your shoes. If you're physically uncomfortable, it's time to get a new pair.
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About the Author
Lindsay is a functional nutritionist, writer, and editor. She has written 15 books and numerous articles on fitness, wellness, and nutrition. Her work appears on Forbes.com, CNET.com, Healthline.com, Garagegymreviews.com, CNN.com, mindbodygreen,com, and LIVESTRONG.com, among others.
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