Long-distance running is a true litmus test for shoes, quickly revealing their durability and performance through wear and tear, mile after mile. Shoes for such a rigorous activity require ample cushioning for softened impacts, enduring durability for sustained usage, and a lively bounce to help you maintain momentum up until the finish line.
At Marathon Sports, our expertise lies in understanding long-distance running and our primary mission is to guide you towards the best fitting shoes for your long-distance endeavors.
Our reviewers (and avid runners) researched and tested dozens of running shoes on store shelves right now. We singled out the 11 best long-distance running shoes to help you reach your running goals, whether you plan to run a marathon or just want to log more miles in 2024. Read on to find the best long-distance running shoes for your training.
What Makes an Excellent Long-Distance Running Shoe?
Durability and comfort are the two most essential assets of an excellent running shoe. It needs to be rugged enough to endure mile after mile and day after day of use. Long-distance runners don’t want to have to buy new shoes every few weeks.
Long-distance running shoes also need ample cushioning. Cushion helps protect the joints, including knees, ankles, and hips from pain and injury. It also gives the shoe a more energetic ride for going the distance.
Our reviewers also singled out the shoes that are lightweight, breathable, and offer a custom-like fit.
With so many long-distance running shoes on the market, it can be challenging to determine which are the best of the best. We laced up and put these shoes to the test, so you can stop searching and start logging miles sooner.
11 Best Long-Distance Running Shoes
- Saucony Ride 17
- Nike Pegasus 41
- HOKA Clifton 9
- On Cloudmonster 2
- Brooks Ghost 16
- Altra Torin 7
- Asics Gel-Cumulus 26
- Mizuno Wave Rider 28
- New Balance Fresh Foam 880v14
- Adidas Supernova Rise
- Puma Velocity Nitro 3
Saucony Ride 17
The Saucony Ride gets consistently high marks from us here at Marathon Sports and its 2024 upgrades have kept it on our list of the best running shoes out there. The Ride 17 includes a completely reworked upper that provides improved breathability, especially across the toes. It also gives your feet a snug, 360-degree fit.
The shoe’s PWRRUN sole has been upgraded to PWRRUN+, which is a complete redesign. The PWRRUN+ provides added comfort and spring, over and above what the Ride 16 version offers. They’ve also increased the durability of high-wear contact points on the soles, which promises to make it an even longer-lasting shoe.
Nike Pegasus 41
This year marks the 41st anniversary of the Nike Pegasus. The “Peg” is one of the most legendary running shoes in the industry.
While the Peg has already undergone decades of modifications, this newest upgrade offers even more features designed around comfort and performance. The new ReactX midsole foam is more responsive than previous foams and boasts a lighter and more energetic ride. The waffle-inspired outsole is impressively durable, and the Air Zoom cushioning at the heel and forefoot offers plenty of softness and bounce.
Increased padding on the collar and tongue and a more breathable mesh upper also make the Pegasus 41 more comfortable for long-distance runs. Our reviewers also appreciate that the Peg is versatile and stylish for everyday wear.
HOKA Clifton 9
The HOKA Clifton 9 is one of the best cushioned running shoes on our list, and that’s what makes it ideal for longer distances. An abundance of EVA foam cushioning provides an energetic, bouncy, and soft ride. This year’s model features 3mm more stack height than previous models and is 4 grams lighter.
Our Marathon Sports reviewers appreciate the Clifton 9’s wider toe box that gives feet more room to breathe and helps prevent blisters on long runs. The stable geometry and meta-rocker design also helps propel runners through long runs, offering smooth transitions and comfort in every stride.
On Cloudmonster 2
The On Cloudmonster 2 is an excellent choice for runners who spend significant time on their feet, especially during long runs. Runners will appreciate the substantial cushioning, which provides comfort and support over extended distances.
However, due to its wide fit, this shoe may not be ideal for those with high arches and narrow feet. Additionally, runners seeking softer foam might find it too stiff for their liking.
The Cloudmonster 2 marries style with function, making it a go-to for both medical professionals on their feet all day and serious runners. It’s a max-cushioned daily trainer that easily handles long runs and even manages moderate-speed work efficiently. Weighing in at 10.4 oz (men’s size 9), it feels surprisingly light, and its stiffness doesn’t detract from its overall comfort and performance.
Key features include the largest-ever CloudTec pods, which enhance energy return by compressing and rebounding with each step. The nylon-blend Speedboard provides additional energy return, while the dual-density Helion midsole foam ensures durability and a blend of stability and softness.
This one is a solid choice for long-distance runners looking for a cushioned yet responsive shoe. However, those with specific fit preferences might need to look elsewhere.
Brooks Ghost 16
The Brooks Ghost 16 is a neutral daily trainer, continuing Brooks’ legacy of reliable, high-quality running shoes. Weighing 9.8 oz for men’s size 9 and 8.8 oz for women’s size 8, it maintains a lightweight feel, enhanced by the new nitrogen-infused DNA Loft v3 midsole. This midsole provides a soft, comfortable, responsive ride for easy runs and recovery days.
This shoe offers an excellent balance of breathability, structure, and stretch with its engineered air mesh upper. This ensures a secure yet flexible fit, preventing foot slippage without compromising comfort. However, the 12 mm drop might be too steep for some runners, potentially causing additional knee stress.
Despite its comfort and performance, the Ghost 16’s design could use a style update to match its competitors. Additionally, while the shoe excels in durability and consistency, it lacks the innovative flair of newer models from other brands.
As explained in this Brooks Ghost 16 review, it is perfect for runners seeking a dependable, comfortable shoe for daily training. It excels in providing a smooth, cushioned ride suitable for long distances, maintaining its position as a staple in the running community. At $140, it offers excellent value for those prioritizing comfort and reliability over cutting-edge features.
Altra Torin 7
Altra is known for making shoes that find the perfect balance for a runner, whether they’re working out on roads or trails. The Altra Torin 7 has had some big upgrades for 2024 that make it an even better shoe. The midsole now has an extra 2 mm of EGO MAX foam, which provides even more cushion and spring.
The mesh upper on the Torin 7 has also been reworked to provide more breathability. The molded heel collar makes it feel like this shoe was made specifically for your feet. Altra’s Balanced Cushioning platform keeps the heel and forefoot at the same distance off the ground, which contributes to better form when running and softer impact with every step.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 26
The Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 is a versatile and cushioned daily trainer, perfect for runners of all abilities. Its main feature is the smooth and soft rocker ride, which ensures a comfortable run. The shoe’s lightweight construction makes it suitable for easy runs and uptempo efforts, including marathon-paced runs.
One of the key improvements in this edition lies in the redesigned midsole and heel flare, alongside the incorporation of new Fluidride™ outsole technology. This enhances comfort and improves traction, providing runners with confidence on various surfaces.
The upper, crafted from soft engineered mesh, offers a plush feel, contributing to the shoe’s overall comfort. However, some users have reported discomfort caused by the high heel tab rubbing against the ankle.
Despite its many positives, durability concerns have been noted, particularly with the outsole, which may show signs of wear after approximately 60 miles of use. Additionally, the shoe’s traction is not optimal on wet or uneven surfaces.
Priced at $140, the Gel-Cumulus 26 is a fair investment for a daily trainer that balances cushioning with responsiveness, catering to the needs of both beginner and seasoned runners. However, those requiring a highly durable shoe or who are sensitive to high heel tabs might need to consider alternatives.
Mizuno Wave Rider 28
Mizuno has been a top shoemaking company for more than two decades, and the Wave Rider 28 definitely deserves a place on this list. This year’s model is lighter, softer, and built to last on even the most rigorous training schedule.
The Wave Rider 28 is designed with a light upper of breathable air mesh, and the upgraded MIZUNO ENERZY NXT foam provides comfort and softness during every impact. The MIZUNO wave plate now disperses energy from impacts to an even wider area, which provides greater cushioning and a stable platform for the foot. However, this Pebax wave plate does give the shoe a stiffer feel than comparable shoes. If you prefer a soft and plush ride, you may want to consider another shoe option for your long distance runs.
The X10 outsole is made from carbon rubber, which is designed to last as you put in the extra miles. This lightweight daily trainer is also made from more eco-friendly materials than ever, making it a great choice for environmentally-conscious runners.
New Balance Fresh Foam 880v14
The New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 maintains the beloved classic features of its predecessors while integrating subtle enhancements to elevate the running experience. Crafted with an engineered mesh upper, the shoe offers a snug yet breathable fit, ensuring comfort and support mile after mile. The padded heel collar and plush tongue, accentuated with suede detailing, wrap the foot in luxurious softness.
Transitioning to the sole unit, the Fresh Foam X technology delivers a balanced blend of responsiveness and stability, making it an ideal companion for daily training runs. Despite its slightly reduced weight and lower heel-to-toe drop compared to previous versions, the 880v14 retains its signature cushioning, providing a smooth ride with each stride.
While some users may find the shoe’s fit slightly roomier than desired, particularly in the toe box, the consensus praises its versatility and durability. However, it falls short in features and energy return, especially compared to competitors in a similar price range. Nonetheless, for runners seeking a reliable workhorse shoe capable of handling a variety of workouts, the New Balance Fresh Foam X 880v14 proves to be a worthy contender.
Adidas Supernova Rise
The Adidas Supernova Rise is a new one within Adidas’s training shoe lineup, heralding a refreshing departure from its predecessors. Boasting a PEBA-based Dreamstrike+ midsole, this daily trainer offers a blend of cushioning and energy return, delivering a responsive yet comfortable ride. Incorporating soft, flexible foam rods in the midsole enhances stability and promotes a smoother transition through each stride, elevating the running experience.
Despite its lightweight design, the Supernova Rise doesn’t compromise on durability, showcasing excellent traction and resilience even on wet surfaces. The snug fit in the forefoot, while providing security, may pose a challenge for runners with wider feet, necessitating careful consideration of sizing. However, the generous padding in the tongue and collar ensures a plush and supportive feel.
From easy recovery jogs to uptempo sessions, the Supernova Rise proves itself to be a versatile workhorse, catering to a wide range of training needs. Its balanced ride and exceptional stability make it a reliable companion for long-distance efforts, while its responsiveness lends itself well to faster-paced workouts. As you’ll find in this Adidas Supernova Rise review, this shoe is a fantastic option for runners seeking a high-performance daily trainer that excels in comfort, stability, and versatility.
Puma Velocity Nitro 3
The Puma Velocity Nitro 3 is an excellent option in the running shoe market, blending versatility, performance, and affordability.
Designed to cater to a broad spectrum of runners, this shoe excels as a do-it-all companion, offering a remarkable balance of features. Its lightweight design and responsive cushioning make it suitable for speed work, while ample cushioning ensures comfort during long runs. Despite its moderate stack height, the Nitro foam delivers a lively and cushioned ride, supported by a stable sole unit featuring Pumagrip rubber for exceptional traction.
The snug yet comfortable fit, coupled with PWRTAPE midfoot support, enhances the overall running experience, although runners with wider feet may find it less accommodating. Nevertheless, the Velocity Nitro 3 proves it can handle various terrains, from technical trails to urban pavements, making it a reliable choice for daily training and even racing scenarios.
At an attractive price of $135, it offers outstanding value, competing with pricier models without compromising performance. While its narrow fit may deter some, those seeking a versatile, budget-friendly option will find the Velocity Nitro 3 a worthy addition to their running arsenal. Whether embarking on a casual 5K or a challenging long-distance endeavor, this shoe stands ready to tackle the miles with confidence and poise.
Shop Now and Start Logging Miles
At Marathon Sports, we stock all the best long-distance running shoes listed above and dozens of others, including stability running shoes, neutral running shoes, and more. Our mission is to help you locate the best running shoes for your training goals.
If you notice last year’s running shoes are causing you pain, losing their grip, or developing holes, it’s probably time to start shopping for something new. Shop online or visit a local Marathon Sports store to find your next favorite pair of long-distance running shoes.
