Choosing the best marathon running shoes isn't as easy as it seems, with many factors to consider when selecting the right fit for your foot and gait. Your feet are as unique as your running style, so there’s no such thing as one size fits all. You need to know your pronation type, your running technique and what works best for different terrains. To help you take the guesswork out of what to look for, we asked our ASICS experts to recommend the best long distance running shoes for 2025.
HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT SHOES FOR LONG DISTANCE RUNNING
When it comes to choosing the best marathon running shoes for you, consider these important factors: comfort, quality, and function. On top of that, understanding your running style, the running terrain and how your feet respond to hours of pounding the pavement will help you in the hunt for long distance running shoes.
WHAT makes a great long distance running shoe?
Long distance running shoes need to be sturdy enough to take a pounding, light enough to not weigh you down and stable enough for maximum push-off and energy return. So many factors come into play when looking for appropriate shoes for a long distance run such as:
- Greater comfort to prevent blisters and reduce load on foot
- Increased durability to withstand frequent long distance runs
- Secure fit and support for stability - To find out your pronation type, take a look at our Pronation Guide.
BEST ASICS LONG DISTANCE RUNNING SHOES WE RECOMMEND IN 2025
Now that you know all the factors involved in finding the best marathon running shoe for your running style, you’ll feel more confident in making the right shoe purchase. Our experts have picked the best ASICS long distance running shoes for 2025 based on your individual running needs.
BEST FOR LONG RUNS WITH A CUSHIONED FEEL
GEL-KAYANO™
Run types: Easy/Recovery, Long Run
Pronation: Overpronation, Neutral
Why it’s great: The GEL-KAYANO™ 32 features our 4D GUIDANCE SYSTEM™ for adaptive stability and PureGEL™ plus FF BLAST™ PLUS foam for cloud-soft landings. It’s ideal for runners needing reliable support and maximum cushioning during long runs.
Run types: Easy, Long Run
Pronation: Neutral, Under pronation
Why it’s great: Our most cushioned neutral trainer yet. With eco-friendly FF BLAST™ PLUS ECO foam and PureGEL™ in the rearfoot, the GEL-NIMBUS™ 27 helps you float through your long runs with plush comfort and smooth transitions.
BEST FOR LONG RUNS WITH A RESPONSIVE FEEL
Run Types: Long Run, Daily Training
Pronation: Overpronation, Neutral
Why it’s great: Light, stable, and built for everyday distance. The GT-2000™ 14 delivers reliable support with LITETRUSS™ technology and FF BLAST™ PLUS cushioning for a smoother, more energised ride. It’s ideal for runners who need structure without the bulk, especially when logging longer runs.
Run Types: Long Run, Daily Training
Pronation: Neutral, Underpronation
Why it’s great: A well-rounded trainer that’s soft where it counts and responsive when needed. The GEL-CUMULUS™ 27 uses PureGEL™ in the rearfoot and FF BLAST™ PLUS for cushioning that adapts to a variety of distances and paces. Perfect for runners who want a reliable shoe that transitions seamlessly from long runs to mid-week workouts.
BEST FOR LONG RUNS WITH MAXIMUM ENERGY RETURN
Run types: Long Run, Tempo, Recovery
Pronation: Neutral, Underpronation
Why it’s great: Ultra-lightweight with FF TURBO™ PLUS cushioning, the SUPERBLAST™ 2 is built for big mileage. It's a versatile option that saves your legs without slowing your pace - perfect for high-volume weeks or marathon training blocks.
Run types: Tempo, Long Distance
Pronation: Neutral, Underpronation
Why it’s great: One of our bounciest models yet, the MEGABLAST™ delivers an energetic feel with a feather-light build. Great for runners who enjoy a responsive toe-off and want a shoe that keeps up on both fast and easy days.
BEST MARATHON SHOES FOR ADVANCED OR ELITE RUNNERS
METASPEED™ SKY
Run Type: Race day (Marathon/Half Marathon)
Pronation: Neutral, Underpronation
Why it’s great: Designed for stride-style runners who lengthen their stride as they increase pace, the METASPEED™ SKY 4 Tokyo helps you go further with fewer steps. A full-length carbon plate pairs with FF TURBO+ foam for snappy propulsion and maximum energy return. The updated upper offers enhanced fit and breathability to keep you focused on performance.
METASPEED™ EDGE
Run Type: Race day (Marathon/Half Marathon)
Pronation: Neutral, Underpronation
Why it’s great: For cadence-style runners who pick up speed by increasing step frequency, the METASPEED™ EDGE 4 Tokyo delivers quick transitions with a smooth, rolling ride. FF TURBO+ cushioning and a precisely tuned carbon plate work together to maximise forward momentum without wasted energy. The refined geometry helps you stay efficient, especially late in the race.
BEST SHOES FOR LONG DISTANCE RUNNING ON ROUGH TERRAIN
TRABUCO MAX™
Run Type: Trail, Long Distance
Pronation: Neutral, Overpronation
Why it’s great: This trail running shoe provides max cushioning and traction while allowing runners to cover more terrain with less effort. Energy savings are an important component for trail runners traversing across long distances, which is why we applied GUIDESOLE™ technology to the TRABUCO MAX trail shoe.
Run Type: Trail, Long Distance,
Pronation: Overpronation, Neutral
Why it’s great: The GEL-TRABUCO™ 13 is a go-to for trail runners who want structured support on unpredictable terrain. Featuring a rock protection plate, ASICSGRIP™ outsole for confident traction, and adaptive FF BLAST™ cushioning, this model is ideal for long-distance runs where stability matters. The updated upper improves breathability while securing the foot through climbs, descents, and switchbacks.
Explore the latest Men’s Running Shoes and Women’s Running Shoes, designed to support every stride with performance-driven comfort, tailored fit, and styles built for your goals
Still unsure about which long distance running shoes are best for you? Learn more about tips for choosing running shoes.