The key to beating your current PR is consistent training and proper nutrition.
The best running shoe companies around the globe believe the right shoe technology can also help. There’s some science behind their claims. Carbon-plated running shoes have a thin carbon fiber plate in the midsole to provide superior propulsion and optimal energy return. The carbon fiber plate stores energy and keeps the large toes straight for more explosive and quicker toe-offs. Not all carbon-plated running shoes perform the same, and some companies haven’t mastered the technology yet.
Our team searched far and wide for the top-performing carbon-plated shoes. The mission was to find the ones that promote more efficient running while remaining durable, comfortable, well-cushioned, and breathable. You’ll find the results here in our review of the best running shoes with carbon plates for 2024.
The Review Process
Our Marathon Sports team members thoroughly researched the top carbon-plated running shoes available, then laced them up and hit the asphalt. Carbon-plated shoes are generally for racing, so they focused on running long distances. However, they paid close attention to how the shoes felt at shorter distances too. Our reviewers were looking for shoes that excel in comfort, reliability, cushioning, fit, responsiveness, and performance. This guide includes the 11 shoes our team felt stood apart as the best carbon-plated running shoes on the market.
11 Best Carbon-Plated Running Shoes
These are the 11 carbon-plated shoes our experts recommend for runners seeking maximum energy return, reduced fatigue, and comfort for marathon-length runs.
- Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
- Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
- New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v3
- New Balance SuperComp Trainer
- Brooks Hyperion Elite 3
- HOKA Rocket X 2
- HOKA Bondi X
- Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro
- PUMA Deviate Nitro 2
- ASICS METASPEED SKY+
- ASICS MAGIC SPEED 2
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 is for going the distance at top speed. The iconic sportswear brand extensively researched materials and features that could optimize a runner’s performance and implemented them into the Adizero Adios Pro 3. Adidas’ carbon fiber ENERGYRODS 2.0 are now one piece in the Adios Pro 3, providing smoother transitions and more energy return than the last edition. Lightweight LIGHTSTRIKE PRO cushioning also promotes comfort and an energetic bounce from start to finish. The rubber outsole completes the shoe with impressive traction, whether the marathon route is wet or dry. Our reviewers praised the Adizero Adios Pro 3 for its breathable mesh upper, comfortable cushioning, and snappy, fast ride.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Saucony is always on top of the game when it comes to incorporating cutting-edge technology in their shoes, and Endorphin Pro 4 proves it. This responsive shoe is best suited to long-distance and marathon racing.
This version has a softer ride despite its firm carbon fiber plate, and features improved upper comfort, a more durable midsole, and better traction than previous versions. The stability is as good as ever, with more compression during foot strikes and the classic comfort of the Endorphin line is definitely still there.
The forefoot rocker is less aggressive than the Endorphin Pro 3, but the new design makes up for it in comfort. It features PWRRUN HG that is now bouncier and softer than last year’s model. The extra traction, better fit, and improved comfort make this one of the best to wear for any marathon or long-distance run. It’s one of the best on the market for the price point.
New Balance FuelCell SC Elite v3
New Balance recently updated the FuelCell SC Elite v3 to make it faster than ever with a full-length carbon plate designed to improve efficiency, propulsion, and toe-off power. The plate, known as the Energy Arc, offers the right shape and placement to increase stored energy for superior energy return. In addition to the carbon plate, the FuelCell SC Elite v3 features a breathable engineered knit upper, built-in tongue, and comfortable, impact-absorbing FuelCell foam. The FuelCell SC Elite v3 is part of the brand’s Race Day collection and was designed for running fast and efficiently.
New Balance SuperComp Trainer
The New Balance SuperComp Trainer is another carbon-plated shoe from the iconic sportswear brand. However, this version is a trainer rather than a race day shoe. The FuelCell SuperComp Trainer is a favorite among our reviewers for the arched carbon plate that promotes maximum propulsion and energy return. The plate sits between two layers of New Balance’s famously light and soft FuelCell cushioning. Our reviewers claimed their legs felt fresh and energized, even after running more than a dozen miles. There’s no doubt you’ll want to compete in the Supercomp Trainer, thanks to its bouncy ride, soft cushioning, and comfortable upper. However, this trainer features a 47mm stack height that exceeds the 40mm limit set by World Athletics. It’s not race-legal, but it’s one of the most energetic and comfortable running shoes our reviewers have found.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 3
Many avid runners want a running shoe ideal for training and race day. The Brooks Hyperion Elite 3 is an advanced, neutral running shoe made for speed. In addition to the shoe’s carbon plate designed for maximum propulsion and ultra-light cushioning, there were several upgrades made in 2023. The latest edition features an updated heel collar and superior fit. Our reviewers felt that anyone who liked the Hyperion Elite 2 will appreciate the Elite 3 even more.
HOKA Rocket X 2
The HOKA Rocket X 2 is lighter, more cushioned, and more responsive than ever, making it one of our team’s favorite shoes for achieving your next PR. The carbon plate was redesigned for this edition, and the spoon shape feels snappier than in previous versions. The result is more efficient toe-offs that promote quickness. The shoe’s midsole now features a lighter, more responsive, and softer PEBA foam that softens impacts while feeling energetic and responsive. An internal cage holds the foot in place to prevent unnecessary movement, rubbing, or blistering, yet remains breathable for long distances. Our reviewers recommend the HOKA Rocket X 2 for runners who have never tried a running shoe with a high stack height or carbon plate. You’ll be blown away.
HOKA Bondi X
Maximum cushioning and propulsion were HOKA’s goals when creating the HOKA Bondi X, and they succeeded. This shoe feels spring-loaded yet pillow-like, a unique combination of power and comfort. Our reviewers appreciated that the Bondi X felt balanced despite its large amount of compression-molded foam. The shoe features a carbon fiber plate for explosive toe-offs and an extended rocker for acceleration. HOKA designed it to go fast, but the mesh upper, ample cushioning, and ideal fit mean it’s remarkably comfortable too.
Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro
Mizuno is another brand that’s always at the cutting edge of running shoe technology. The brand known for its iconic Wave Plate now released its first carbon-reinforced version. The result is even more propulsion, energy, and explosive toe-offs. The new wave plate sits amidst layers of Mizuno’s lightweight ENERZY LITE midsole foam, known for its responsiveness and underfoot comfort. The shoe also features strategically-placed cutouts that reduce pressure on the legs caused by the carbon plate. That means less fatigue, whether you’re training or racing.
PUMA Deviate Nitro 2
The PUMA Deviate Nitro 2 looks like your average running shoe. But inside, you’ll find a long list of PUMA’s most advanced running shoe technologies. The engineered carbon PWRPLATE is one of them. This carbon plate improves energy transfer while offering stabilization. NITRO & NITRO Elite cushioning is extremely lightweight while providing the ultimate level of responsiveness. A breathable mesh upper, targeted reinforcement for comfort and durability, and MULTI-TERRAIN RUBBER make the PUMA Deviate Nitro 2 an ideal race-day or training shoe. Our reviewers commented that the Deviate Nitro 2 is also one of the most stylish carbon-plated running shoes available right now. It doesn’t scream “carbon-plated” or “maximum cushioning,” so it can easily be worn throughout the day as well.
ASICS METASPEED SKY+
The METASPEED SKY+ is a culmination of ASICS top technologies, from the Jacquard mesh upper to the carbon plate and ultra-responsive FF BLAST™ TURBO cushioning. This shoe is made to promote longer strides, which means faster finish times. Most of this energy comes from the full-length carbon plate and midsole foam, but the improved midsole geometry offers a more explosive toe-off, and the MOTION WRAP upper keeps feet secure from start to finish. All the outstanding features of the ASICS METASPEED SKY+ combine to form a racing shoe that’s durable, comfortable, well-cushioned, and explosive.
ASICS MAGIC SPEED 2
ASICS describes the METASPEED SKY+ as a shoe designed for racing. However, they describe the ASICS MAGIC SPEED 2 as a trainer designed to lead you toward your next personal best. Our reviewers also praised it as an excellent race-day shoe. Amidst the shoe’s FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning is a full-length TPU and carbon plate designed for maximum propulsion. This year’s edition of the MAGIC SPEED 2 includes an updated fit to make it more versatile for varying running workouts and racing. The ASICS MAGIC SPEED 2 is the full package, with ASICSGRIP™ traction, optimal propulsion, cushioning, and an overall comfortable fit. It’s also more affordable than many other carbon-plated shoes.
Finding the Right Carbon-Plated Running Shoes
Buying your first pair of carbon-plated running shoes can be intimidating. Their higher price point and unique design may make you leery of choosing the wrong pair. Stop by a Marathon Sports location or speak with one of our representatives to learn more about carbon-plated shoes and which option may be best for you. Our The Right Fit™ process allows us to assess your foot shape, gait, pronation, running style, PR, goals, and other factors to recommend shoes that are ideal for you.
Whether you shop in stores or online, we’ll do our best to help you make the right choice. We even allow you to test your running shoes for 30 days. If they don’t work, bring them back for an exchange or store credit to find exactly what you need. Our goal is to help you achieve your running goals in the shoes that work best for you, so shop today!
