If your goal is to run your fastest marathon, these are the standout carbon-plated "super shoes" based on race results, independent testing, and runner feedback.
Best overall
- adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
- photo not availableNike Alphafly 3
- photo not availableASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
- photo not availableHOKA Cielo X1 2.0
- photo not availableNew Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5
- photo not availableUnder Armour Velociti Elite 3
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If your goal is to run your fastest marathon, these are the standout carbon-plated "super shoes" based on race results, independent testing, and runner feedback.
Best overall
adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
$249.95
•
Competitive Cyclist
Why it's a top pick:
Excellent balance of cushioning, propulsion, and stability
Works well for a wide range of marathon paces
Consistently ranked among the best marathon racers by testers and worn by elite athletes.
Runner's World
+1
Other top marathon racing shoes
Nike Alphafly 3
$295.00 • Designed for speed, ideal for race days.
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
$269.95 • Lightweight and responsive for fast runs.
HOKA Cielo X1 2.0
$158.97 • Cushioned support for comfortable training.
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5
$249.99 • High-performance for competitive racing.
Under Armour Velociti Elite 3
$249.99 • Responsive cushioning for quick-paced runs.
Here's how they compare:
Shoe Best for Notes
Nike Alphafly 3 Marathon PRs Maximum bounce and efficiency; excels over 26.2 miles if you like a highly cushioned ride.
Runner's World
ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo Powerful stride runners Extremely light with excellent energy return; best if you naturally lengthen your stride as you speed up.
RTINGS.com
+1
HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 Softest ride Very cushioned and aggressive rocker; great for runners wanting maximum protection late in the race.
Runner's World
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 Comfort + speed Less aggressive than some rivals, making it easier to handle for many recreational marathoners.
YouTube
Under Armour Velociti Elite 3 Efficient turnover Fast, lightweight option that's becoming increasingly competitive at the elite level.
YouTube
Which one should you buy?
Best overall for most runners: adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
Fastest feeling: Nike Alphafly 3
Most natural ride: ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
Most forgiving over 26.2 miles: HOKA Cielo X1 2.0
Best value if found on sale: New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5
If you already know your pace
A more tailored recommendation depends on your goal:
Sub-2:45: Alphafly 3, Adios Pro 4, Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
2:45–3:30: Adios Pro 4, Alphafly 3, SuperComp Elite v5
3:30–5:00: Adios Pro 4, SuperComp Elite v5, Cielo X1 2.0 (comfort becomes increasingly important)
If you tell me:
your marathon goal time,
your current shoe rotation,
whether you have narrow, average, or wide feet,
I can narrow it down to the 2–3 shoes most likely to work well for you.