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The marathon distance attracts a whole range of runners, from first timers to PB-seeking pros. So, choosing a marathon shoe isn’t always straightforward.

While comfort and durability are key for all runners, recently technological advancements mean you've got the likes of carbon-plated super shoes to think about, too.

Luckily, we’re here to guide you through the process of selecting your next pair to see you through your upcoming race. Shop our winners here, at a glance, or keep scrolling for the full reviews.

What to look for in a marathon shoe

Cushioning vs responsiveness

With so many logistics to consider on race day (getting to the start area, dropping your race bag and fuelling, to name just three), the last thing you want to be worrying about is an uncomfortable pair of shoes that start rubbing after the first mile. So, find a shoe that you are comfortable in and remember the golden rule: nothing new on race day!

That being said, the more comfortable and plush a shoe is, the more cushioning it usually has. Those in search of a PB will want to find the balance between a shoe that's comfortable enough to carry them for 26.2 miles, but has enough responsiveness and firmness to pick up the pace. If this is your first marathon, responsiveness is probably less of a concern.

Breathability

Our feet naturally get hot and swell when we exercise. It's important to find a shoe with good breathability to dissipate that heat and avoid hotspots (which lead to blisters). Extra breathability will make all the difference on race day, too. For marathon shoes, we'd recommend a mesh upper over a knit upper as they tend to be more lightweight and breathable.

Sizing

Never buy the same size running shoe as your normal shoe size because you will always need extra room. Not only will your feet elongate as you run, but they'll also swell as you do more activity. A cramped space for the foot, combined with pressure and repeated friction on the skin and nails, will lead to a very unhappy situation.

Going half a size up is often adequate, but sometimes you may need to try a full size larger than your normal shoe size. However, if shoes are too big or the toe box is too wide, then the twisting motion of the foot forces your body weight forward and the toes grasp to gain more stability, with the lesser toes curling up. The best option if you're unsure? Go to a running shop and try on a range of sizes.

Choosing a marathon shoe

So now you’ve considered all the factors above, what’s next? Before hitting ‘add to basket’ on the latest pair of super shoes on the market, it’s important to understand your options when it comes to a long distance running shoe.

A note for first time marathoners

If this is your first crack at 26.2 miles, chances are your goal is simply to finish. In this case, comfort is king. There’s nothing wrong with opting for the same running shoe you’ve been using for your training runs, so long as you’re confident it will feel comfortable on race day. If you’re after something a little more peppy though, there are a few options.

1. Consider geometry

A lot of running shoes in 2024 have what’s called a ‘rocker geometry’. With these shoes, the sole looks more like a crescent than a flat line. The purpose is to aid heel-to-toe transitions, gently pushing you forward and doing some of the work for you. If you’re used to running in a very plush, supportive and cushioned shoe, this could be a good starting point.

2. Plateless racers

Switching to a carbon plate race shoe can feel pretty intimidating for some runners (not to mention, it'll set you back a fair few quid). If this sounds like you, you might want to go for something with some rigidity through the forefoot (to propel you forward) but without a plate. Often, these kinds of shoes still contain elements of the high energy return midsole foams used in the respective brand’s carbon plate super shoes. Good examples include the Asics Superblast 2 and New Balance Rebel 4.

3. Super shoes

Born out of the Nike Breaking 2 project back in 2017, there’s a reason why these shoes are at the top of the food chain. Generally speaking, super shoes contain a combination of high energy return foam (such as Pebax) and a carbon fibre plate. The plate also has a spring function, which is thought to work in conjunction with the foam to provide propulsion.

While most running brands have carbon plate shoes in their collections, they’re all wildly different in their constructions and rides. The likes of the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 and Salomon S/Lab Spectur are perhaps the most accommodating super shoes, while the Adidas Adios Pro 3 and the Saucony Endorphin Elite deliver a much more ‘aggressive’ ride.

Are super shoes worth it?

A Nike-funded study published in 2017 found that among 18 runners tested, super shoes (in this case, the Nike Vaporfly 2) improved running economy – the amount of oxygen required to cover a certain distance – by an average of 4%.

But here’s the catch; as well as being Nike-funded, the participants in the study were able to hold an average pace of between 5:22 to 6:45 minutes per mile. (For context, a pace of 6:40 min/mile will give you a 2:55 marathon).

A separate 2023 study looked at 16 runners who moved at far slower paces: between 8:03 to 9:40 minutes per mile (where a pace of 9:43 min/mile will give you a 4:15 marathon). The researchers found that the subjects improved their running economy by just a fraction, suggesting that super shoes do more for you the faster you run. Runners averaging at a 9:40 min/mile pace improved their running economy by an average of 0.9%, while the 8:03 min/mile runners improved theirs by 1.6%.

Of course, these are just two of many studies into super shoe efficiency. But, it would suggest that a pair of super shoes is a more worthwhile investment for the faster runners among us.