7 Best Long Distance Running Shoes, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023

Jens Jakob Andersen
Jens Jakob Andersen on
7 Best Long Distance Running Shoes, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023

Going for anything longer than a 10K calls for the most reliable, comfortable, and durable running shoe. As the stress on your body increases, so do the demands from a pair of running shoes.

We have taken over 100 shoes on a long-haul run to find out which ones will stand the test. They also went through our lab tests before making it to the top selection.

You might be after a faster shoe, or a max-cushioned marathon shoe, or an extra protective trail shoe for a 100K ultra. We’ve got our top picks in various categories to help you choose the one that fits your needs.

How we test running shoes

No need to read 1500+ shoe reviews when you’re at RunRepeat. It is our mission to test every single long-distance shoe on the market and let you know about the best options.

We’ve been in the running shoe game since 2014 and are now equipped with our own shoe testing lab to put every new release through the wringer. Here is our process:

  • Buy a shoe with our own funds to avoid bias
  • Run 30-50 miles in each pair
  • Cut the shoe open and take it into pieces (literally)
  • Mease over 30 parameters that contribute to the shoe’s performance
  • Consider all available feedback from runners, shoe experts, and regular users
  • Summarize it all into comparable data

In the end, each shoe receives a CoreScore. It is a number from 0 to 100 that indicates how good this shoe is against all others.

Best long distance running shoes overall

PUMA Deviate Nitro 2
PUMA Deviate Nitro 2

CoreScore

94
Superb!
4.8 / 5 from 51 users
90 / 100 from 10 experts

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

Verdict

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.
PUMA Deviate Nitro 2 full review

Best long distance running shoes for race

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2.0
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2.0

CoreScore

92
Superb!
4.7 / 5 from 4,616 users
90 / 100 from 13 experts

Pros

  • Breathable
  • Responsive
  • Carbon rods
  • Soft midsole
  • Laces stay tight
  • Price

Cons

  • Runs narrow
  • Unstable at slow speeds

Verdict

Top-tier race shoe from Adidas gets an update. In 2020 V1 won a ton of praise and world records with its carbon rod (and plate) design and Lightstrike Pro midsole. The super shoe category was once owned but just one brand but in 2021 there’s some serious contenders for best in show.
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 2.0 full review

Best long distance running shoes for ultra

ASICS Novablast 3
ASICS Novablast 3

CoreScore

92
Superb!
4.6 / 5 from 1,746 users
91 / 100 from 15 experts

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

Verdict

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.
ASICS Novablast 3 full review

Best road long distance running shoes

Brooks Ghost 14
Brooks Ghost 14

CoreScore

92
Superb!
4.6 / 5 from 146,319 users
91 / 100 from 26 experts

Pros

  • All about comfort!
  • True to size
  • Lots of padding
  • Smooth ride
  • Really stable, even on light trails
  • Breathable
  • 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

Verdict

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!
Brooks Ghost 14 full review

Best long distance running shoes for flat feet

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22

CoreScore

90
Superb!
4.5 / 5 from 96,584 users
90 / 100 from 12 experts

Pros

  • Fits true to size
  • Promising durability
  • Stability for all directions
  • Improved aesthetics
  • Phenomenal grip
  • A firmer, faster midsole
  • Consistent in all conditions
  • Reliable daily runner

Cons

  • Very heavy
  • High price point for stability aimed at beginners
  • Midsole is too hard for some

Verdict

One of Brooks’ most revered and popular stability shoes gets a well-needed modern update for 2022. This daily runner is loved by many because it’s seen as the Jack of all trades running shoe thanks to a bi-directional correction for different over-pronation. With fresher looks, it’s now an even more attractive option.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 full review

Best value

Mizuno Wave Horizon 6
Mizuno Wave Horizon 6

CoreScore

92
Superb!
4.8 / 5 from 78 users
86 / 100 from 6 experts

Pros

  • Support that's not harsh
  • Impact-absorbing
  • Gives your stride a boost
  • Very comfy for recovery runs
  • Stable when cornering
  • Breathable
  • Keeps the foot in place
  • Grip that sticks

Cons

  • Long break-in period
  • Comes with a hefty tag

Verdict

The Wave Horizon 6 from Mizuno is a stability running shoe that's built ready for cruising long miles and giving your feet and legs the rest day they deserve during recovery sessions. Unlike other stability shoes, the Horizon 6 doesn't feel harsh. As a matter of fact, it's a very comfy shoe that will give you all the cushioning you crave.
Mizuno Wave Horizon 6 full review

How to get the right pair of long-distance running shoes

Either you are doing a 10K race or ultra-marathon, there is no one perfect shoe that fits everybody’s feet. Depending on the distance, the preferences will change. The shoe you wear for a 10K race will not work efficiently when used for ultra-running. 

Here are some tips that will help you find the best long-distance shoes:

10K

10k.png

Not as cushioned as marathon shoes. It can even be a race flat for experienced runners.

For beginners, a light speed trainer is the best choice.

Example: Hoka Mach 4 (a lightweight speedster for 5-10K)

Half-Marathon /Marathon

Marathon.png

Cushioned shoes are preferred.

For forefoot/midfoot strikers, look for shoes with added forefoot support and lower drop.

For heel strikers, wear a shoe with extra heel padding.

For competitive marathoners, consider high-end shoes with innovative technologies, like a carbon plate (aka “super shoes”).

Example: Saucony Endorphin Pro 2 (an elite carbon-plated racer with a super-light, responsive foam)

Ultra running

ultra running.png

Get a shoe with a durable outsole (opt for solid rubber than blown rubber).

For rough, uneven terrain, a good grip is necessary.

Cushioned shoes will keep you comfortable.

For rocky off-trail runs, wear shoes with a rock plate.

If you plan to swap shoes along the way, get a bigger size (1.5-2 sizes up) to accommodate the swelling.

Make sure you get a tried-and-tested pair of ultra running shoes.

As you can see, the number of required features grows with the distance. The longer the race, the more equipped you need to be:

Comparison.png

Arch support in long-distance running shoes

Having the right kind of support is crucial when you go the distance. Your feet will be exposed to constant ground impact for a long period of time.

Start by checking your arch type and pronation with the chart below:

Recommended road running shoe according to arch type.png

If you are not sure, go with a neutral running shoe (has no added arch support).

To learn more about the kind of support that would work best for you, see our guide on pronation.

neutral-stability-motion-control.jpg

neutral shoe (left) vs. stability shoe (center) vs. motion control shoe (right)

Breathability or waterproofing?

Unfortunately, a good compromise is rare. Depending on the conditions of your upcoming race, you have to decide which one is the priority. 

For dry and warm weather, always pick a well-ventilated shoe. We made sure to check which long-distance shoes stay breathable on the run.

For wet, rainy, and muddy conditions, consider shoes with a Gore-Tex membrane for full protection. Or slightly more breathable shoes with water-repellent uppers.

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.