7 Best Long Distance Running Shoes For Men in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
| Reviewed using methodology 1.6
7 Best Long Distance Running Shoes For Men in 2023
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It takes mental and physical strength to run long distances. If you don’t have what it takes to endure the discomfort and stress of clocking big miles, you can just forget about becoming a long-distance runner. You can say the same thing about the shoes on your feet.

We have tested 100+ men’s long-distance running shoes to see which ones will make our best selections. Using a rigorous process, we put each pair of shoes to road tests on various training and racing conditions, and a lab test that cuts to the minutest details of each model.

Take a quick look at our best picks in five categories and find out which one fits your specific needs.

Best overall
PUMA Deviate Nitro 2 PUMA Deviate Nitro 2
$160 $120 From Amazon
Best for trail
Hoka Tecton X Hoka Tecton X
$200 $136 From Zappos
Best with wide toebox
Hoka Mach 5 Hoka Mach 5
$140 $129 From Amazon
Best stability
ASICS Gel Kayano 28 ASICS Gel Kayano 28
$160 $90 From Amazon
Best cushioning
ASICS Novablast 3 ASICS Novablast 3
$140 From Zappos
Best with plush cushioning
Brooks Ghost 14 Brooks Ghost 14
$140 $75 From Amazon
Best low drop
Altra Lone Peak 6 Altra Lone Peak 6
$140 $83 From Amazon
See all 839 men's long distance running shoes

    How we test running shoes

    You don’t have to read 1000+ reviews on running shoes at RunRepeat. We streamline everything for you to save you the time and experience the convenience of choosing the right fit for your next 21K or 100K race. We gather all the necessary data we need utilizing a proven system we’ve developed over the years, which allows us to come up with the best options available.

    Our entire process involves:

    • Buying the shoes with our own funds to avoid brand loyalty and bias
    • Logging 30 to 50 miles in each pair both on the road and off-road paths
    • Cutting the shoes into pieces (literally) to delve deeper into their essential parts
    • Measuring 30+ parameters that make the shoe’s overall performance
    • Collecting useful feedback from shoe experts, long-distance runners, and regular users
    • Summarizing everything into comparable data

    To conclude the entire process, each shoe receives a final CoreScore rating. It is a number from 0 to 100 that shows how great (or not so great) each model is against all others.

    Best men's long distance running shoes overall

    puma deviate nitro 2 test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-cut-in-half
    puma deviate nitro 2 lab test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-breathability-test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-transparency-test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-heel-stiffness
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-cushioning-test
    puma deviate nitro 2 midsole test
    puma deviate nitro 2 freezer test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-ride2
    puma deviate nitro 2 outsole
    puma deviate nitro 2 outsole thickness
    puma deviate nitro 2 heel stack height
    puma deviate nitro 2 forefoot stack height
    puma deviate nitro 2 insole thickness
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-testing
    puma deviate nitro 2 forefoot max width
    puma deviate nitro 2 big toe2
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-flexibility-test2
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-flexibility-test1
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-road-test
    puma-deviate-nitro-2-stability
    puma deviate nitro 2 midsole width heel
    Puma%20Deviate%20Nitro%202%20-%20Reflective%20elements
    puma deviate nitro 2 outsole test
    puma deviate nitro 2 from above
    puma deviate nitro 2 in pieces 2
    PUMA Deviate Nitro 2
    92
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The PUMA Deviate Nitro is back with a significant update that makes an already great shoe even better. It’s really comfortable, which is not always the case for carbon-plated shoes, and it’s extremely versatile. As a result, we have a real do-it-all companion to take on the road for every run, not to mention the quality-price ratio, which basically makes it a no-brainer.

    Pros

    • Great all-rounder
    • Super-smooth and responsive ride
    • Plush cushioning
    • Comfy upper
    • Grippy outsole
    • Above average durability
    • Fairly priced

    Cons

    • Heavier than other similar shoes
    • Not many colors available
    Full review of PUMA Deviate Nitro 2

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black (37680701)
    Azul (37680709)
    Black (37756701)
    Black (37680711)
    Sunset Glow (37680703)
    Gul (37680705)
    Bianco (37680704)
    $120
    See deal  
    $155
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  

    Best men's long distance running shoes for trail

    hoka tecton x rocky terrain
    hoka-tecton-x-cut-in-half
    hoka tecton x cut in pieces
    hoka tecton x outdoor_012
    hoka tecton x_036
    hoka-tecton-x-trail-runs
    hoka-tecton-x-torsional-flexibility
    hoka tecton x bottom
    hoka tecton x_013
    hoka tecton x lugs
    hoka-tecton-x-cushioning-test
    hoka tecton x heel stack height
    hoka-tecton-x-slow-motion
    hoka tecton x base
    hoka tecton x freezer
    hoka tecton x trail
    hoka tecton x stretch
    hoka tecton x_019
    hoka-tecton-x-carbon-plate
    hoka tecton x toebox width
    hoka tecton x lugs outsole
    hoka tecton x heel
    Hoka Tecton X
    92
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The Hoka Tecton X is Hoka's first carbon-plated trail running shoe. To justify the name, it just might have started a tectonic shift - that's how much it is loved by runners. It's positioned as a speed-ready, racing and training companion to the Hoka Speedgoat 5. Thanks to the dual-plated design, it shines at fast paces, especially the ultra ones. On top of this, it's a max-cushioned running shoe that keeps the feet protected without weighing them down.

    Pros

    • 2 carbon plates: very propulsive ride
    • Insanely stable
    • Looks fast and runs fast
    • Lightweight
    • Very cushioned & responsive
    • Worth the investment
    • Room for feet swelling
    • Grippy
    • No break-in
    • Vegan materials used

    Cons

    • Not for technical terrains
    • Might accumulate mud
    • Expensive
    Full review of Hoka Tecton X

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Persimmon Orange - Radiant Yellow (1123161PORY)
    Thyme Fiesta (TFST)
    Blue (SBDP)
    $136
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $150
    See deal  
    $160
    See deal  
    $165
    See deal  

    Best men's long distance running shoes with wide toebox

    Hoka Mach 5 review
    Hoka-Mach-5-saw-cutting
    Hoka Mach 5 lab test and review
    Hoka-Mach-5-bounce-and-response
    Hoka-Mach-5-ride
    Hoka-Mach-5-cushioning
    Hoka Mach 5 rocker deisgn
    Hoka-Mach-5-breathability-test
    Hoka-Mach-5-light-transparency-test
    Hoka Mach 5 foam softness
    Hoka Mach 5 foam freezer test
    Hoka Mach 5 heel stack
    Hoka Mach 5 forefoot stack
    Hoka-Mach-5-stability
    Hoka Mach 5 sole width
    Hoka Mach 5 toebox
    Hoka Mach 5 forefoot width
    Hoka-Mach-5-heel-stiffness
    Hoka Mach 5 heel hold
    Hoka Mach 5 gusseted tongue
    Hoka Mach 5 tongue thickness
    Hoka-Mach-5-reflective-elements
    Hoka-Mach-5-flex-measurement
    Hoka-Mach-5-flex
    Hoka Mach 5 upper
    Hoka Mach 5 outsole durability traction
    Hoka Mach 5 lightweight
    Hoka Mach 5 price
    Hoka Mach 5 lab measurements
    Hoka Mach 5
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The Mach 5 from Hoka is a performance trainer that can do a bit of everything. If you want to train with speed, it can be your trusty tempo running shoe. And if you want an easy-day or long-distance trainer, the Mach 5's cushy yet stable ride will serve you just right. Even better, it'll give you all the snappiness and energy return you need.

    Pros

    • Super fun and energetic ride
    • Velvety smooth strides
    • Runs and feels light
    • Comfy for easy days
    • Cushioned for long runs
    • Absorbs impact
    • Awesome fit
    • Welcomes wide feet
    • Reflective
    • Worth the money

    Cons

    • Slips on wet pavement
    • Gets easily dirty
    Full review of Hoka Mach 5

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Mountain Spring/Puffin's Bill (MSPBL)
    White/Copper (WCPP)
    Black/Castlerock (BCSTL)
    White/Scuba Blue (WSBB)
    Radiant Yellow Evening Primrose (RYEP)
    Impala/Vibrant Orange (IVOR)
    Ceramic/Evening Primrose (1127894CEPR)
    Evening Primrose/Scuba Blue (EPSB)
    White/Flame (WFM)
    $129
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best stability long distance running shoes for men

    asics gel kayano 28 pieces of the shoe
    asics-gel-kayano-28-intro
    asics-gel-kayano-28-cutting-in-half
    asics gel kayano 28 profile photo
    asics gel kayano 28 lacing
    asics gel kayano 28 tongue
    asics-gel-kayano-28-heel-slipping
    asics-gel-kayano-28-360
    asics gel kayano 28 midsole
    asics-gel-kayano-28-love-kayano
    asics gel kayano 28 gel
    asics-gel-kayano-28-toe-off
    asics gel kayano 28 weight
    asics gel kayano 28 half
    asics gel kayano 28 heel padding
    asics-gel-kayano-28-vs-27
    asics-gel-kayano-28-reveal
    asics gel kayano 28 outsole
    asics-gel-kayano-28-cutting-the-upper
    asics gel kayano 28 upper
    asics gel kayano 28 length
    ASICS Gel Kayano 28
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    Still staying true to its Kayano roots, the Kayano 28 retains its hallmark of stability and support while seeing some updates to amp up comfort and flexibility. And with better flex, the shoe was just overall fun! Although designed as a daily trainer, runners also find it fitting as a standalone shoe that you can take out of the closet during race day and on long, slow miles.

    Pros

    • Familiar Kayano fit
    • Roomier toebox
    • No lace bite
    • Added pep
    • No medial post
    • Lost weight
    • Kayano durability

    Cons

    • Heel slipping
    • Overly plush
    • Runs warm
    Full review of ASICS Gel Kayano 28

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Lake Drive/Black (1011B189402)
    Black White (1011B189005)
    Black/Electric Red (1011B189002)
    Black/White (1011B189003)
    Grey (1011B189022)
    Black/Graphite Grey (1011B189001)
    Carrier Grey/Black (1011B189021)
    Black White (1011B189300)
    More colors
    $90
    See deal  
    $95
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $120
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Men's long distance running shoes with best cushioning

    Asics Novablast 3 review
    Asics-Novablast-3-saw-cutting
    Asics Novablast 3 lab measurements
    Asics Novablast 3 heel stack
    Asics Novablast 3 forefoot stack
    Asics-Novablast-3-cushioning
    Asics Novablast 3 foam durometer softness
    Asics Novablast 3 freezer test
    Asics-Novablast-3-smoke-breathability-test
    Asics-Novablast-3-light-transparency-test
    Asics-Novablast-3-lightweight
    Asics-Novablast-3-springly-ride
    Asics-Novablast-3-flex-measurement
    Asics-Novablast-3-flex
    Asics-Novablast-3-stable-sole
    Asics-Novablast-3-stable-ride
    Asics Novablast 3 all arounder
    Asics Novablast 3 tongue
    Asics Novablast 3 tongue thickness
    Asics Novablast 3 gusseted tongue
    Asics Novablast 3 forefoot
    Asics Novablast 3 length
    Asics-Novablast-3-heel-stiffness
    Asics Novablast 3 traction
    Asics-Novablast-3-landing
    Asics Novablast 3 price
    Asics Novablast 3 lab tests
    ASICS Novablast 3
    91
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    It's a comfy daily running shoe. It can go fast. It can go far. In the words of an expert, the Novablast 3 from ASICS "sets the standard for what a daily trainer should be." What's more, you can race in it in your next marathon too. Talk about versatility! And if you want a light shoe that won't drag you down, the ASICS Novablast 3 is the all-rounder you need.

    Pros

    • Super bouncy
    • Cushy feel for miles
    • Breathable
    • Light AF
    • Ready for cornering
    • Locks you in
    • Tongue stays in place
    • Grippy outsole
    • Mad durable
    • Sets the bar for a do-it-all shoe

    Cons

    • A tad too long
    • More expensive by $10
    Full review of ASICS Novablast 3

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Black/Island Blue (1011B458004)
    Black/Amber (1011B458001)
    Cream/Fawn (1012B288101)
    White/Deep Ocean (1011B458100)
    Sheet Rock/Black (1011B458021)
    Black/White (1011B458002)
    White/Piedmont Grey (1012B288102)
    Electric Red/Midnight (1011B458600)
    More colors
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best men's long distance running shoes with plush cushioning

    Brooks Ghost 14 Parts
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Features
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Running-Angled
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Saw
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Reveal
    Brooks Ghost 14 Ankle Collar
    Brooks Ghost 14 Thickness Tongue
    Brooks Ghost 14 Lacing Pattern
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Running-Side
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Flex-Test
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Cutting-Apart
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Compression
    Brooks Ghost 14 Width Forefoot
    Brooks Ghost 14 Weight
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Showoff
    Brooks Ghost 14 Thickness Outsole
    Brooks Ghost 14 Outsole Forefoot
    Brooks Ghost 14
    Brooks-Ghost-14-360
    Brooks Ghost 14 Upper Forefoot
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Fog
    Brooks-Ghost-14-Lace-Slip
    Brooks Ghost 14 vs 13
    Brooks Ghost 14 Reflective Back
    Brooks Ghost 14 No Reflective Side
    Brooks Ghost 14 Freezer
    Brooks Ghost 14
    91
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    The Ghost 14 from Brooks really fits the bill as the shoe for all runners. It's a workhorse that's comfy enough for easy days, responsive for tempo sessions, and is heavy-duty to handle light trails. Overall, a no-fuss daily trainer that will work for all your runs!

    Pros

    • All about comfort!
    • True to size
    • Lots of padding
    • Smooth ride
    • Really stable, even on light trails
    • Great out of the box
    • Built for longevity (500 miles, easily)
    • Great grip

    Cons

    • Lacks breathability for hot summer days
    • Not the best for long distances
    Full review of Brooks Ghost 14

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Red (615)
    Primer Grey/Black/Alloy (039)
    Titan/Teal/Flame (488)
    Grey/Alloy/Oyster (067)
    Black/Blackened Pearl/Blue (056)
    Black/Blue/Nightlife (069)
    Grey/Blue/Red (078)
    Green Gecko/Blue/Black (310)
    More colors
    $75
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $100
    See deal  
    $140
    See deal  

    Best long distance low drop running shoes for men

    Merrell Nova 2 %2025
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Cut-2
    Merrell Nova 2 %2022
    Merrell Nova 2 %20921
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Run
    Merrell Nova 2 %2099
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-Cush
    Merrell Nova 2 %2091
    Merrell Nova 2 %20917
    Merrell Nova 2 %2095
    Merrell Nova 2 %20924
    Merrell Nova 2 %20919
    Merrell Nova 2 %2092
    Altra-Lone-Peak-6-360
    Merrell Nova 2 %20913
    Merrell Nova 2 %20912
    Merrell Nova 2 %20918
    Altra Lone Peak 6
    90
    Superb!

    What makes it the best?

    Whether you’re a dedicated zero-drop runner, just dipping your toe into it for the first time, or like to spice up your rotation with something new, the Altra Lone Peak 6 is a solid workhorse of a trail running shoe. The Altra Lone Peak 6 is a genuinely excellent all-rounder.

    Pros

    • Fits true to size
    • Excellent all-round grip
    • Highly durable
    • Great ground feel
    • Feels like it makes you run better
    • Great pull tab
    • Gaiter compatible
    • Brilliant lacing
    • Roomy toe box
    • Fully gusseted tongue

    Cons

    • Stain magnet
    • Not enough cushioning for some
    Full review of Altra Lone Peak 6

    Today's best price

    Men
    Women
    Any color
    Maroon (AL0A547L666)
    Orange (AL0A547L880)
    Brown (AL0A547L990)
    Blue (AL0A547L305)
    Blue / Grey (AL0A547L242)
    Dusty Olive (AL0A547L315)
    Black (AL0A547L020)
    Black (AL0A7R6K020)
    $83
    See deal  
    $101
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $105
    See deal  
    $113
    See deal  

    Comparison of the 7 best long distance running shoes for men

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    CoreScore
    Users rating
    Experts
    Best price
    Ranking
    Popularity
    # of colorways
    Author
    Jens Jakob Andersen
    Jens Jakob Andersen

    Jens Jakob is a fan of short distances with a 5K PR at 15:58 minutes. Based on 35 million race results, he's among the fastest 0.2% runners. Jens Jakob previously owned a running store, when he was also a competitive runner. His work is regularly featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, BBC and the likes as well as peer-reviewed journals. Finally, he has been a guest on +30 podcasts on running.

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