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Best Long Distance Running Shoes
A great pair of professional running shoes will keep you comfortable and going at a steady pace while putting in the miles. Luckily for you, we have done the research and listed the ten best long distance running shoes and why they made our list. We have also listed some criteria to keep in mind when looking for your perfect pair of long-distance running shoes.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Support
When a person is running, especially over longer distances, making sure that your souls are properly supported can mean the difference between an exhilarating and satisfying run, or one riddled with pain and frustration.
The first area that is often cited as being important in maintaining good overall support is making sure the arch area of the foot gets the attention that it needs. Providing adequate support for arch area is essential, especially for those with fallen arches or flat feet. In addition, having proper arch support can make it easier for the skeletal areas in the foot ankle and lower leg to properly align while running.
Proper support also helps in long-distance running because it can prevent your feet from overpronating (turning from side to side when you run). Pronation is a natural foot movement, that is designed to help absorb the shock of the impact, but too much of it can be a problem and will throw things out of alignment.
Fit
Not surprisingly, how long-distance running shoes fits is also an important thing to consider when making a purchase. In this case, the fit isn’t just about shoe size, but rather how the shoe conforms to your foot. If you think about it, even people with the same shoe size can have remarkably different shaped feet. By finding top long distance running shoes that properly fits you, you can help to prevent a lot of different injuries, such as blisters, strained tendons, and foot muscle cramps.
A well-fitting long distance running shoes will also help you fight fatigue, which is certainly important when running over great distances. If the shoe conforms properly to your feet, it will not only offer better protection from a jarring impact but also provide a feeling of lightness while you run. One way to think of it is that shoes should fit well enough to make it feel like you’re running with a cloud supporting you, not dragging a piece of the cloud with you.
Protection
In addition to offering your feet ultimate support and comfort, they should also be substantial enough to protect you from any debris on the road that could inhibit your strides. Along with this, best long distance running shoes will help to protect your lower joints by keeping everything in proper alignment. Quite a few injuries happen, not because of any real mishap, but because the ankles, knees, and hips aren’t properly aligned, which can lead to significant wear and tear on the joints.
Second, running shoes for long distance will protect your feet and legs from the sharp impact of hitting the ground with significant force time and time again. This is accomplished through proper fit, the right support, and the right amount of cushioning in the right areas.
Comfort
If you had to worry about your comfort while running, chances are you might not do it as often. This is where the shoes cushioning comes into play. Running shoes, as a rule, tend to have more cushioning and support in the shoe as a whole than other athletic shoes do, and there is a good reason for this.
If you think about what you’re actually doing while running – even properly running – the force of the impact of each time you hit the ground with your feet can send shock waves up through your body quite easily. Cushioning, besides making the foot feel more comfortable, helps to absorb some of that shock, the same way the struts on your car help you navigate those small potholes that litter the city streets.
Drop
As the name implies, the heel to toe drop, or heel drop, is the amount of vertical change between the heel of the shoes and the toe of the shoes. For the most part, when it comes to running, you’d want high mileage running shoes that have relatively low heel drop. The reasoning behind this is that if the heel drop is high, the heel of the foot would strike the ground too soon, sending shock-waves up into your lower body. Essentially, a low heel drop means that there is less of a chance that your gait will cause problems with pain and fatigue as you travel the distance.
Top Ten Long Distance Running Shoes
1. Brooks Ghost 10
The Brooks Ghost line of marathon running shoes makes another appearance on the list in our ninth spot. The Ghost 10 is the next-generation model of the Ghost shoes. It's a solid runner that offers respectable cushioning and perform well for the long-distance runner.
Read moreSupport
This long-distance running shoes offers support to the runner through both technology and the materials used in construction.
Fit
Most people found the fit of these brooks running shoes to be extremely comfortable and form-fitting. A new seamless upper brings improvement to the fit.
Protection
Overall these best running shoes for long distance offers great protection, both from the elements and overpronation.
Comfort
Most people found that the cushioning in these shoes was fine for the occasional long-distance race or training episode, but found that it did require more of it for a full day of training or running.
Drop
The heel to toe drop of these particular shoes is 12 millimeters, which is fairly significant. If used improperly, there is a strong potential for the heel of the runner to have to absorb a fair amount of impact.
Summary
If you’re looking for a somewhat comfortable trainer for your long-distance running that offers neutral support overall, the Brooks Ghost 10 is one that may be worth your consideration.
2. Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34
From its start, the Nike brand shoes has been associated strongly with running and athletics, and this pair of shoes is no exception. Designed primarily for running on the road and conquering the concrete jungle, these shoes make it difficult to say “no” to the next marathon run.
Read moreSupport
These nike long distance running shoes offer support to your feet in a number of different ways. The first is a fitsole sock liner that conforms easily to the shape of your foot overall. In addition, air units in both the toe and heel area allow for extra support and cushioning where you need it most.
Fit
The majority of people found these shoes to be well-fitting, with only about 13% of the people finding them to be a bit on the small or large side of things.
Protection
In addition to the rubber soles protecting the bottom of your feet, these best long distance road running shoes also help to keep your joints and leg muscles aligned properly to maintain good balance and posture overall.
Comfort
While it may not provide as much cushioning as some other choices, on this list, the Nike Pegasus brand of shoes offers a good amount of cushioning where you need it most, relying both on construction and air pockets to get the job done.
Drop
The heel drop on this shoe measures about 10 millimeters, which is fairly low. This allows for less of the heel to meet the pavement, making for a more comfortable and longer-lasting run.
Summary
When it comes to running in the urban jungle, the Nike brand is hard to beat. The materials used lend themselves to a great overall fit that is breathable, comfortable and has the support that every runner needs. So, if you are looking for the Nike best distance running shoes, you should consider purchasing these!
3. Asics Gel-Kayano 24
The Asics company has had a well-respected reputation when it came to asics running shoes, and this example from their Gel-Kayano line is no exception. Featuring a number of characteristics that make it a viable choice for multi-mile runs, these shoes is definitely one to consider.
Read moreSupport
Unlike many of the shoes presented on this list that offer support by cushioning or adding foam to particular locations to get the support necessary for a great run, the Asics Gel-Kayano 24 focuses instead on making sure the runner’s gait remains natural and aligned. It does this through what is called Impact Guidance System, or a series of fluid-filled capsules that allow for the foot to easily adjust to the running surface without experiencing too many jars or mishaps. These are also great as trail running shoes.
Fit
The overall fit is perhaps one area where these best long distance running shoes are somewhat lacking. While the majority of people found it to be comfortable and true to size, there was a sizable percentage – nearly 14% that found it to be painfully small and restrictive. Also, there were reports of the two shoes in a pair being different in sizes by at least ½ a shoe size.
Protection
The thick rubber sole and the synthetic and fabric upper provide adequate protection from the weather and elements, and the basic cushioning system provides a bit of protection from misalignment due to poor running posture.
Comfort
For the most part, this shoe provides cushioning in the form of shock-absorbing fluid capsules that move with the step and absorb the majority of the impact shock with each step taken.
Drop
The heel to toe drop in this particular shoe is about 10 millimeters, which is a moderate amount, especially considering the other examples on this list. However, with the added cushioning and shock-absorbing material in the mid-soles, most runners fail to notice much of a difference.
Summary
These particular long-distance running shoes are designed to promote stability and comfort while traveling over sidewalks and streets. While the sizing may be problematic at times, if you find a pair that fits you well, these shoes can prove to be a valuable training aid.
4. Asics GT-2000 6
The last entry on our list is by no means last in overall quality. The GT-2000 6 Running Shoes by Asics is an upgrade from the 5 and provides great overall support and cushioning that is hard to beat.
Read moreSupport
One of the nicer things about these neutral running shoes is that it provides fantastic neutral support without adding weight. The unique cushion system allows for great overall support without too much-added bulk or weight.
Fit
Most people found these shoes to fit well, while a small number of people find them to fit touch small, so it's best to try them on.
Protection
Besides offering adequate protection from the elements, this running shoe from Asics uses a combination of state of the art support systems and cushioning to provide good protection from gait abnormalities.
Comfort
The cushioning in this shoe is provided through a combination of a gel cushioning system near the heel and toe areas to allow the most efficient form of shock absorption.
Drop
The heel to toe drop is 10 mm in this shoe, which although moderate is about average for this type of shoe.
Summary
The wonderful thing about the Asics GT 2000 6 is that they are suitable for both beginners and avid runners alike. They are best suited for longer runs that need recovery, but they can also easily work for an all-around shoe.
5. New Balance 1080v9 Fresh Foam
This next addition from the Fresh Foam family of New Balance running shoes brings us an impressive blend of cushion and support combined. The Ortholite liner and 3D heel construction work together to provide a comfortable and true-to-size fit. Not to mention, these shoes also look great!
Read moreSupport
With such cushioned shoes, you may be worried that they won’t provide enough support. The full-length fresh foam midsole was designed with the feedback from runners and offer top of the line support.
Fit
The bootie construction of these shoes provides each wearer with a custom fit. Almost everyone agrees that they fit true to size. The only confusion has been in which width to order. It seems as though they run a bit narrow.
Protection
While there is nothing out of the ordinary to protect your body from the ankles up, the cushioning and support that is offered from these long distance shoes will help to protect you from harsh heel strikes and discomfort.
Comfort
This is where these shoes really shine. Almost all shoe sizes, height, age, and genders agree that this is an exceptionally comfortable shoe. You can’t feel the ground underneath you through the shoe but you can still enjoy ultimate support and comfort. The 3D heel design helps to keep your foot in place and the Ortholite insole and sock liner provides an extra layer of comfort.
Additionally, the upper is made from a synthetic fiber and mesh blend, promoting breathability. The mesh features “no-sew” application, helping you to avoid blisters or raw spots.
Drop
The drop in these shoes is approximately 8mm. This is a fairly normal drop and won't feel any different to most runners.
Summary
If running on a cloud sounds like something you’d like, you should try these shoes. They provide a great fit that almost seems like it was made for you. The minimal drop and Ortholite sockliner all work together to keep you running the distance comfortably.
6. Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18
If you’re looking for great support, these are your best long distance running shoes. As far as real-life testing goes, it has been said that the Adrenaline GTS 18 offers a cut above the rest of the shoes out there.
Read moreSupport
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18 offers substantial support without being heavy.
Fit
Most people found the Brooks Adrenaline to be quite close to what they expected in terms of size, and comfortable overall, allowing for a minimal amount of movement in the heel area and enough flexibility in the toe box.
Protection
The lighter construction may not offer as much substantial support that some seek.
Comfort
When it comes to absorbing the shock of impact while running, the Adrenaline does a great job, but also, they remain light in weight and these running shoes can help with overpronation problems.
Drop
The difference between the heel and toe, in this case, is about 12 millimeters, which is pretty substantial compared to some of the others on this list. However, for a long-distance trainer, this much of a heel drop isn’t that bad.
Summary
Brooks comes in hot with the Adrenaline GTS 18. Its remarkable support is combined with a light feel thanks to the upper portion that has been redesigned. This shoe makes it easy for a runner to ease into an undisturbed long-distance pace.
7. New Balance Leadville Vibram
If you’re a runner who has vast feet and you still want to enjoy the challenge of cross-country long-distance running, it can be hard to find a pair of running shoes that truly fit. Thankfully, this entry from New Balance is designed with you in mind.
Read moreSupport
These shoes are designed to offer support for those who need more stability than an overall arch support. The REV Lite foam in the midsole provides great stabilization over the length of the footfall, helping to keep everything in line.
Fit
Most people found these best shoes for long distance running to be comfortable to wear if a bit on the larger size overall. However, for those with wider or flatter feet overall, these shoes are some of the most well-fitting and comfortable ones available on the market today. They can be used as running shoes for wide feet, or as running shoes for flat feet.
Protection
With the combination of mesh and synthetic materials, these shoes offer somewhat adequate protection from the elements, and the overall stable design helps to keep the foot and ankles properly aligned to prevent undue damage to the joints overall.
Comfort
The New Balance brand of shoe is well known for their levels of comfort and support. One of the reasons for this is their superior use of cushioning technology that is designed to move and shift as needed to make sure that the foot is properly in place and comfortable.
Drop
The amount of displacement between the heel and toe of this particular running shoe is 8 millimeters. This puts it well within the middle range – not exactly great, but nothing too problematic either. For most people, this difference would hardly be noticeable.
Summary
If you’re looking for a shoe that focuses on stability and comfort overall, this example from New Balance is a great contender. While it may be a bit too large for some people, it does provide a good deal of strength and stability when needed.
8. Adidas Adizero Adios 3
It's a pretty solid shoe, built for endurance, but remains fairly lightweight enough to not add unnecessary fatigue from the weight. Long distance running shoes, for many people, should have a good balance of durability, lightweight materials, solid traction and cushioning that lasts through the run, yet allows responsiveness and a decent amount of ground feel. The Adios series so far has gotten it right.
Read moreSupport
With normal-high arches, the Adios 3 offers decent support. They are neutral shoes that offer great energy return from full-foot boost midsole. If you are looking for Adidas running shoes that will help to increase your speed, these shoes is equipped to do it.
Fit
Depending on your foot shape and preferences, the fit of The Adios 3 may come as a surprise. The shoes are narrower than most running shoes and, in turn, offer a snug fit. Many users recommend ordering a half of a size up. Unfortunately, these long distance running shoes are not available in wide sizes.
Protection
Like many running shoes, these shoes don’t offer a lot of ankle or shin protection. It is best worn on gravel or tracks, and not in sticks. However, the traction of the Adios 3 is increased by 23% from the previous model and offers great grip.
Comfort
As far as the midsole, this is a comfortable shoe. The full-foot boost midsole is made from multiple foam pods that are melded together to create one, large, cohesive midsole. These springy and lightweight shoes weigh only 7.6-ounces.
To keep you from sweating in the shoes, these Adidas also feature Coolever mesh lining that provides excellent breathability.
Drop
These shoes feature a slightly high but moderate drop of 10mm. For an inexperienced runner, this could cause harder heel strikes. Luckily, the great cushioning and energy return in these shoes will help to keep you safe and comfortable.
Summary
The Adios 3 is one of those shoes. It's lightweight and low profile, yet has adequate cushioning for those long runs and even marathons.
9. Saucony Kinvara 7
If you’re looking for long distance running shoes that are flexible enough to meet you head on no matter the terrain than you definitely want to consider this third entry on our list. Designed to be both lightweight and flexible with plenty of support, the Saucony Kinvara Running shoes are great overall choice for cross-country treks.
Read moreSupport
This pair of shoes offer great support through the use of lightweight synthetic materials that offers flexibility in the mid-sole and fore-foot areas and great cushioning and support in the heel area as well. The shoe is designed to move with and offer to change support as your foot needs it. There is no rigidity here, just support that moves with you. It should be noted, however, that it doesn’t offer quite the amount of support and stability often needed by people with flat feet or wider feet.
Fit
The majority of the people found these shoes not only to be very well-fitting but also comfortable, despite a wide variety of foot types and shapes. The removable insole allowed for a more customized fit, and the extremely flexible outsole made it easy for the shoe to conform nicely to the foot and move with it easily when in use.
Protection
The rubber sole and lightweight and breathable material provide great protection overall from dirt and debris. In addition, the stability technology built into the sole of the shoe helps to keep everything aligned just the way you need it when you need it.
Comfort
Overall these shoes have a great deal of cushioning throughout the bottom of the shoe. Although they are fairly flexible in design, there is definitely a consideration towards the overall level of comfort that a runner feels while taking each step.
Drop
The heel to toe drop of these long-distance running shoes tops out at about 4 mm making the drop barely noticeable as you run. That means that you’ll get a fantastic overall weight distribution and less need for the shock-absorbing cushioning.
Summary
The Saucony Kinvara 7 Running shoes are a great overall choice if you need the flexibility of great cross country or road running shoes, but don’t require too much structure or overall stability. The heel to toe drop is one of the smallest we’ve seen, and the overall fit and comfort are quite good as well.
10. Newton motion V
When it comes to lightweight shoes that are great for long-distance running, one of the best choices in the market today is the Newton Running Motion V shoes. Designed with the runner in mind, this shoe offers stability, comfort, and flexibility like few others.
Read moreSupport
The Newton Running Motion V features an EVA-High rebound compound in the midsole and inner sole area that helps to keep the foot well balanced and supported while in motion, with a concentration on maintaining overall stability. There is a minimal amount of support offered, but it appears to be placed in areas where it is needed the most.
Fit
While most people found these shoes to be very well-fitting, and flexible, there were some who thought that shoes overall fit was a bit on the smaller size. However, the combination of the stretch metatarsal panel, stabilization tongue, and the anatomically correct overlays helped to provide a more customized fit.
Protection
While the mesh upper portion does provide for superior breathability and flexibility in movement, it really offers very little in the way of protection from the elements. If you choose to use these shoes during inclement weather, it’s best to expect to get wet.
Comfort
Overall the amount of cushioning offered in the Newton Running Motion V is adequate, but nothing really to write home about. They are certainly comfortable but rely more on the overall fit to maintain the comfort level of the shoe itself.
Drop
The heel to toe drop in the case of this shoe is about 3 millimeters, which means that the foot will land on either the mid-foot or fore-foot area if the shoe is used correctly. This means that the overall shock of impact will be more evenly distributed over the length of the foot.
Summary
If you’re not too worried about the amount of cushioning in your shoe, or the amount of protection from inclement weather, the Newton Running Motion V is a great overall choice. This long-distance running shoe focuses on overall fit and stability to make sure that the run is everything that it should be.
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