Gear lab · Tested
Best Carbon-Plated Marathon Racing Shoes ([YEAR])
We ran every shoe on this list through marathon-pace long runs and threshold sessions before ranking it. Here's what to race in, and how to choose.
Affiliate disclosure: We buy most shoes we test and may earn a commission when you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you. Commissions never decide rankings. How we make money.
Quick picks
Spec comparison
| Shoe | Best for | Heel stack | Drop | Weight | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| [SHOE MODEL A] | Marathon PR | [XX] mm | [X] mm | [X.X] oz | [$PRICE] | Check price |
| [SHOE MODEL B] | Stability late in the race | [XX] mm | [X] mm | [X.X] oz | [$PRICE] | Check price |
| [SHOE MODEL C] | Value | [XX] mm | [X] mm | [X.X] oz | [$PRICE] | Check price |
| [SHOE MODEL D] | Half marathon | [XX] mm | [X] mm | [X.X] oz | [$PRICE] | Check price |
The reviews
1. Best overall
[SHOE MODEL A]
[Testing notes: how it felt at marathon pace, late-race stability, fit, durability over test miles.]
Pros: [pro], [pro]
Cons: [con]
Check price at [RETAILER]2. Most stable
[SHOE MODEL B]
[Testing notes.]
Pros: [pro], [pro]
Cons: [con]
Check price at [RETAILER]How we test
Every shoe is run by multiple testers across easy miles, threshold workouts and marathon-pace long runs before it's eligible for ranking. We note how each shoe feels late in long efforts, how stable it is on corners and descents, and how the foam holds up over our test mileage. [Add tester profiles, test mileage and conditions.]
How to choose a marathon racing shoe
Stack height and foam
Taller stacks of modern foams return more energy and protect legs late in the race, but can feel less stable. World Athletics limits stack height for shoes used in elite competition; most major racers are built to that limit.
Plate stiffness
Stiffer plates tend to reward faster, more consistent paces. If you'll be running slower than your training paces late in the race, a more forgiving plate may feel better.
Drop and fit
Drop affects how a shoe rolls through toe-off. Fit matters more than any spec: a racer that rubs at mile 5 will be unbearable at mile 22.
Durability
Race shoes give up longevity for performance. Save them for workouts and race day, and train in them enough beforehand to know they work for you.
FAQ
Do carbon-plated shoes make you faster?
Research on the first generation of these shoes found improved running economy for many runners, though the benefit varies by individual and pace. Try before you commit for race day.
Should I train in my racing shoes?
Do a few key sessions in them — a marathon-pace long run at minimum — so race day holds no surprises.