The 5 best shoes for long-distance running
Buying guide
The best shoes for long-distance running provide support and comfort as you log miles.
Long-distance running requires grit and endurance, but it's also crucial to have the proper equipment to see you through the miles ahead. The best shoes for distance running offer support and durability, whether you're a seasoned marathoner or prefer occasional long runs.
The right running shoes can make the difference between staying comfortable on your runs and dealing with aches—and even injuries—over time. But the best shoes for long-distance running depend on your personal needs, including your gait, foot shape, preferred fit and style preferences. There are a lot of shoes for distance running out there, and it can be tricky to know which one is the right choice. Here's how to narrow the field to find the best distance shoe for you, along with a few options from Nike to consider.
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What to look for in a long-distance running shoe
While personal preference plays a big role in choosing the right long-distance running shoe, there are a few key factors to look for. "For long-distance running, we would recommend great cushioning and support for overall comfort, impact protection and general injury prevention", says Ashley Campbell, Nike expert product line manager, running footwear.
"Fit is crucial, too", Campbell says. That means looking for a shoe that gives you enough room around the toe box to accommodate foot swelling that is common during runs. "It's also crucial to have lockdown in the midfoot and heel for support", she says.
"Some athletes might want responsiveness to help them push the pace a little to get ready for race day if they are a more competitive-type runner", Campbell says.
Finally, consider the terrain you'll be covering. If you prefer to log your miles on a trail, look for shoes with enhanced traction, debris protection, durability and drainage for powering through puddles and wet ground, according to Campbell.
How Nike tests for long-distance durability
Each Nike long-distance running shoe undergoes meticulous testing before being released to ensure it can withstand the rigours of long-distance running.
Shoes are put through multiple rounds of testing with hundreds of runners. "Each long-term test requires each athlete to run in the shoe for eight weeks, with a specific weekly mileage requirement", Campbell says. That's usually a minimum of 35 miles per week, adding up to at least 300 miles on the shoes over the course of the test.
Testers share if there are any durability issues. They're also required to return the shoes when road testing is done so that Nike can test them and the engineering team can inspect them, according to Campbell.
From there, shoes are measured for factors like abrasion, tearing and more. "That helps give us some indication of durability, as we are choosing materials to use throughout the development process", Campbell says.
The best shoes for long-distance running
The best shoes for long-distance racing depend on a few factors, including how and where you plan to use them. Consider these standout Nike options to help you go the distance.
Best long-distance training shoe for road running: Nike Vomero Zoom 17
Road running can be tough on your joints, making cushioning important in a training shoe. The Nike Vomero Zoom 17 has "great cushioning", Campbell says. This shoe features ZoomX and Cushlon foams as well as maximum spring and durable traction as you cruise through the streets and over pavements.
Best long-distance training shoe for road running with extra stability: Nike Pegasus 41
If extra stability is important to you, consider the Nike Pegasus 41. This shoe features dual Air Zoom units and a ReactX foam midsole around your forefoot and heel for responsiveness. A breathable mesh upper is designed to enhance your comfort as you run. The shoe also features a plush collar, tongue and sockliner for a secure fit. This shoe comes in regular and extra-wide sizes, along with a range of colourways—including the ability to customise your own.
Best long-distance racing shoe: Nike Vaporfly 3
The Nike Vaporfly 3 is designed with race day in mind, featuring responsive Nike ZoomX technology for a bouncy feel as you step. The midsole bulges out by the heel to help reduce weight on the inside of the foot and deliver a more stable ride. This sneaker boasts Flyknit yarns to enhance breathability and support. The Vaporfly 3 features an updated thin rubber outsole for less outsole weight without sacrificing durability. Choose from nine colourways.
Best long-distance trail shoe: Nike Zegama 2
Trail-running shoes need to help support you over a range of terrain, including rocks and dirt. The Nike Zegama 2 has a high level of cushioning thanks to a lightweight ZoomX foam midsole. An outsole made with Vibram Megagrip features a lug pattern with wide spacing to help deliver enhanced traction as you run. This shoe also boasts an ankle gaiter to lower the risk of trail debris ending up in your shoe.
Best long-distance shoe for multiple surfaces: Nike Pegasus Trail 5
If your runs take you from the road to the trail and back, consider the Pegasus Trail 5. This versatile shoe is equipped to handle both surfaces with a ReactX foam midsole for added cushioning and less rubber along the outsole compared with previous versions. The outsole also wraps around the front of the shoe to provide extra durability, while its traction pattern and rubber material help lend extra grip, whether you're taking on trails or roads.
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Words by Korin Miller