What Are the Best Marathon Shoes?
September 23, 2021
When you're looking for a reliable marathon shoe, you'll want to find a running shoe that's light but durable to sustain the high mileage you'll put them through.
Soft cushioning is also vital to sustaining your comfort level throughout long running sessions. While some marathon runners prefer the lightest racing flats, others are more comfortable in a shoe that has a little more heft, as long as it has excellent cushioning and support. The best marathon shoe for you will be the one that feels good to you. Here are four excellent choices to consider.
ASICS GEL-CUMULUS ® 23
The GEL-CUMULUS 23 is considered among the best in long-distance running shoes for its smooth ride and flexible insole. Meant for road surfaces and runners with either neutral pronation or under pronation, the CUMULUS line of shoes is durable and known for its soft cushioning. With the 22, you'll get more flexibility than previous models as well as:
1. FLYTEFOAM® cushioning in the midsole for softer shock absorption.
2. GEL™ technology in the heel for additional shock absorption and a plush feel.
3. Deeper grooves in the sole for helping you roll through your stride.
4. A 3-D printed one-piece mesh upper for improved fit.
5. AHAR® rubber outsole that provides extra durability for lots of mileage.
ASICS GLIDERIDE™
The GLIDERIDE is a light shoe meant to handle longer runs without making you overexert energy. This is possible due to the shoe's unique rocker shape, which creates a stable, smooth-running experience. Here's what else this everyday trainer gives you for marathon running:
1. GLIDESOLE™ technology in the sole that rocks you up onto your toes as your feet hit the ground.
2. FLYTEFOAM technology for improved cushioning.
3. GEL technology for even more cushioning and reduced load on the foot.
4. Dynamically curved sole and stiff forefoot for reduced movement of the ankle and increased running efficiency.
5. Center of mass that's closer to the heel, making it easier to swing your foot forward.
6. A fit that's accommodating, including for wide feet.
ASICS GEL-NIMBUS® 23
This high-mileage training shoe is designed for neutral runners and offers maximum cushioned shock absorption for longer runs. The 23's improved stability over its predecessors in the GEL-NIMBUS line gives runners a more balanced stride. The running shoe also provides you with:
1. Uppers engineered in a mesh design for breathability and comfort during long runs.
2. Eyelet shaping that allows the upper to move with your foot more naturally.
3. Stretchy midfoot panel that hugs your foot for more flexibility.
4. Sustainable recycled materials in the upper.
5. More compression in the heel created by GEL technology cushioning and contoured lines.
6. TRUSSTIC™ device that's gender-specific to deliver the right amount of articulated support for smooth transitions.
7. Gender-specific pillars under the toe to provide cushion for a softer feel.
8. OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner, which helps create a responsive, forgiving stride.
ASICS GEL-KAYANO® 28
The GEL-KAYANO 28 is a lightweight running shoe that provides maximum cushioning for long runs and is designed for neutral runners or those who overpronate. The sole of this shoe is flexible, while the upper is made of mesh knit, and the two together provide a more natural roll through your stride. Additional benefits of the GEL-KAYANO include:
1. Breathable knit upper that keeps you cool.
2. Added flex grooves in the heel for isolating the initial impact and creating a softer, smoother foot strike.
3. Design that stops pronation at midstance and encourages an efficient toe-off.
4. DYNAMIC DUOMAX® technology that supports the foot and provides stability for runners who overpronate.
5. SPACE TRUSSTIC™ technology in the midsole that makes the shoe lighter and provides stability for smoother transitions from footstrike to toe-off.
6. Reflective material in a large section of the rearfoot that improves your safety when running in low-light conditions.
