Best Long-Distance Running Shoes (2024): 9 Picks To Go The Distance

Whatever long-distance running means to you—a 5K, half-marathon, or 100-miler—it’s important that you get the right shoes to support your endeavors. The best long-distance running shoes optimize three important components that affect running performance: shock absorption, energy return, and transitions. Ahead, we cover nine options that fit the bill. 

Thousands of Miles Later

At the time of writing this, GGR product testers have been testing walking and running shoes for nearly a year—and that’s not counting all of our previous years of exercising of our own accord. Among our seven product testers, we’ve walked and ran thousands of miles while analyzing shoes for comfort, fit, performance, and much more. On top of that, we are a team of credentialed fitness industry professionals who have a long and varied history of competing and participating in multiple sports, including endurance sports.

Best Long-Distance Running Shoes in 2024

• Best Long-Distance Running Shoes Overall: Saucony Tempus
• Best Budget Long-Distance Running Shoes: Brooks Revel
• Best Lightweight Long-Distance Running Shoes: HOKA Mach 5
• Best Neutral Long-Distance Running Shoes: Brooks Glycerin 20 
• Best Stability Long-Distance Running Shoes: HOKA Arahi 6
• Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Energy Return: Karhu Ikoni 
• Best Long-Distance Trail Running Shoes: Brooks Cascadia 16
• Best Cushioned Long-Distance Running Shoes: On Cloudstratus 
• Best Long-Distance Racing Shoes: Adidas Adios Adizero

Best Long-Distance Running Shoes Overall: Saucony Tempus

Good for: Any runner looking to maximize shock absorption, energy return, and shoe weight

Best Overall

Saucony Men’s Tempus Running Shoes

GGR Score: 4.1

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Product Highlights

• Saucony promises a maximum energy return due to the extra bounce
• Full shoe length of cushioning for comfort
• Breathable mesh on the upper
• Partially made of recycled materials

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comes in 9 colorways
• Sizes ranging from 7 to 15
• American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)-certified

Cons

• Some reviews claim the shoe runs narrow
• You have to pay for your returns if the shoes don’t work for you
• Shoes must be completely unworn if you return them

Bottom Line

The men’s Tempus running shoe from Saucony combines ultralight cushioning, breathability, and an array of color choices to make a good choice for a running shoe.

If you are looking for a daily trainer for everything from long runs to tempo runs to easy runs, and something that can get you through race day with no problems, look no further than the Saucony Tempus. 

This shoe features Saucony’s PWRRN PB cushioning that’s known for its incredible energy return and springy feeling. At the same time, the curved midsole shape and support frame make stride transitions a breeze, while the contoured insole and sockliner keep your feet secure and stable within the shoe for motion control. 

On top of that, the Tempus weighs less than 9 ounces (men’s) and less than 8 ounces (women’s), making the shoe extremely lightweight for all of the features it offers. Saucony really got this one right: distance runners will enjoy an optimal blend of reduced joint impact, great feedback, bounce, and the lightweight feeling all of us runners crave. 

These are a good option for neutral runners and mild overpronators, too: The extended crash pad around the heel offers some forgiveness for deviation at footstrike, and the PWRRUN Frame helps prevent arch collapse upon impact.

At $160, these shoes definitely aren’t cheap, but they’re also not more expensive than most high-performance running shoes available these days. 

Best Budget Long-Distance Running Shoes: Brooks Revel

Good for: Newer runners looking to amp up their mileage without spending a fortune

Best Budget

Brooks Revel Running Shoes

GGR Score: 3.9

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Product Highlights

• Entry-level running shoe from reputable brand Brooks 
• 59.7% recycled materials in the upper
• Breathable mesh upper 
• Springy foam midsole 
• Great for new runners

Pros & Cons

Pros

• List price of $100
• Provide a ton of energy return
• Ample midsole cushioning
• Fun colorways
• Lightweight at about 8 oz
• Breathable upper

Cons

• Not as durable as some other Brooks shoes
• Thinner midsole may wear down more quickly than other options

Bottom Line

The Brooks Revel shoes are a great pick for newer runners who want to start increasing their mileage without spending too much on a new pair of shoes.

Good running shoes aren’t cheap, and the price continues to hike as the purpose becomes more niche (for example, trail running shoes and stability shoes). Distance-running shoes are no exception, as it’s considered a type of high-performance running.

However, at GGR, we’re adamant about providing recommendations for all budgets, and we’re quite aware that not everyone has $150 to $250 to spend on a pair of shoes. That’s why we’re including the Brooks Revel in this guide, which has a more palatable list price of $100. 

The Revel isn’t a long-distance shoe when compared to the others you’re reading about here. But distance is subjective anyway, and we think this shoe can work for newer runners who want to start increasing their mileage. “Long-distance” for a beginner might mean 3 or 4 miles, and the Revel is the perfect fit for that. 

Brooks categorizes these shoes as an “energize” option according to its scale that rates the cushion and guidance levels of each shoe model. This means you can expect a springy feeling that helps you bounce out of each stride; plus, at 8.01 ounces per shoe (women’s), the Revel is  about 1 ounce lighter than the popular Adrenaline GTS and Ghost.

As Brooks states on the website, the Revel is best for “running for fitness” and “training for a milestone” — which very well could mean your first 5K or 10K. I will say that it’s unlikely the Revels will hold up as well as the more expensive options in our guide, but if you’re just getting started, that’ll be just fine.

RELATED: Best Running Shoes for Beginners

Best Lightweight Long-Distance Running Shoes: HOKA Mach 5

Good for: Mid- to moderately long-distance runners who want an ultra-lightweight and roomy shoe

Lightest Weight

HOKA Mach 5

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Everyday running shoe from Hoka
• 9 colorways
• Low-level cushion to keep your foot closer to the ground
• Vegan

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comes in a variety of neon colors
• Heel collar for a secure fit
• Long-lasting rubber outsole
• Free shipping and returns

Cons

• Mostly neon colors, not many neutral options
• Users claim the arch is too tall
• Reviews state the tongue slides

Bottom Line

The Mach 5 from HOKA is a running shoe made to be both lightweight and durable.

I never thought I’d reach for any brand over Brooks, but thanks to the fact that I have a fun job that includes testing a ton of shoes, I have learned that I really like HOKAs—at least the HOKA Mach 5s. 

These may be the lightest shoes I’ve ever run in, and I feel it with every stride. The listed weight is 6.8 ounces per shoe for women and 8.2 ounces for men. That is really light compared to the other shoes I regularly run in: 9 ounces for the women’s Brooks Adrenaline GTS, 9.1 ounces for the Brooks Ghost, and even 7.5 ounces for the On Cloudgo.

The Mach 5s also feature a very roomy toe box—they feel almost as spacious as my Altra Lone Peaks—and a gusseted stay-flat tongue that I appreciate very much. 

At first, I wasn’t sure how to rate these shoes, because if you’re not used to HOKAs, you’ll be thrown off by how utterly soft they are. You almost sink into them with each foot strike. This was a new experience for me and it took several runs to get used to it.  Now, though, I’ve logged over 30 miles in these shoes, with three of those runs being more than an hour in length—and I look forward to wearing the Mach 5s every time. 

They are just so comfortable; it’s like walking on clouds. I love that there’s plenty of wiggle room in the toes while the heel cup stays snug. The extended heel tab is also wildly convenient and makes it so easy to pull the shoes on and off without unlacing each time.

Best Neutral Long-Distance Running Shoes: Brooks Glycerin 20 

Good for: Runners with neutral strides who appreciate more cushioning

For an optimal blend of cushion and neutrality, check out the Brooks Glycerin running shoes, which offer maximum DNA LOFT cushioning yet remain on the lowest end of Brooks’ support spectrum. 

This means the Glycerin offers all of the shock absorption you could need while leaving your feet free to do their thing. The shoes are free of any motion-control support, like the GuideRails you’ll find in some other Brooks options. For that reason, we definitely don’t recommend them to people who overpronate or oversupinate. 

However, the Glycerin 20s are the bees’ knees for runners who have good control over their foot strike. The 10-millimeter heel-to-toe drop supports smooth transitions while the plush DNA LOFT midsole foam absorbs shock. The woven mesh upper feels breathable even in hot weather, and the heel counter fits snugly around the back of the heel, according to our tester. 

“These feel very durable and like they won’t be wearing out before the expected time frame of several hundred miles,” our tester says. “Although these are $160, I think they are worth the price. They are solid, neutral running shoes that will support your foot well.”

RELATED: Best Running Shoes for High Arches

Best Stability Long-Distance Running Shoes: HOKA Arahi 6

Good for: People who overpronate or are prone to experiencing technique depreciation over long distances

Best for Stability

Hoka Arahi 6

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Stability running shoe that combines balanced cushioning and support
• Features a J-Frame ,which is designed to prevent both over- and underpronation without overcorrecting your gait
• Meta-Rocker technology specifically supports the forefoot 
• Zonal rubber outsole and mesh upper with zones of breathability
• Extended heel pull tab

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good combination of cushion and stability
• Comfortable
• Little to no break-in period
• Lightweight

Cons

• May feel rigid to some
• Traction in wet weather may be an issue
• Relatively expensive

Bottom Line

The Hoka Arahi 6 stability running shoe features Hoka’s signature Meta-Rocker technology, J-Frame, zonal rubber, and balanced cushioning.

As opposed to neutral running shoes, stability running shoes offer elements of motion control. Specifically, stability shoes aim to combat overpronation, or collapsing of the arch upon contact with the ground. Overpronating can cause pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and even the back in some cases. 

GGR editor and product tester Nicole Davis tested the Arahi 6. Here’s what she has to say about them: 

“I like these shoes and think they’re a solid option for walking and running. I’ll get lots of use out of them for sure. These are categorized as stable on their site, with their J-Frame tech designed specifically to prevent excessive overpronation. I don’t overpronate, but they still feel comfy to me. They’re also in the middle for cushion, which I like for walking purposes. They’re light, breathable, easy to get on and off, and would be comfortable for extended periods.” 

Indeed, HOKA’s J-Frame, or “Active Foot Frame,” cradles the inside of the foot with an emphasis on the arch. It provides medial (meaning the inside of the foot) support throughout the entire length of the shoe. It’s called the J-Frame because it wraps around the heel and lines the inside of the foot, stopping at the tip of the big toe.

As for appearance, HOKA isn’t known for producing the most stylish running shoes. However, as Nicole puts it, “HOKAs are not for everyone, but I think the color combos are unique and make them a bit more fashion-forward than they could look otherwise.” 

Best Long-Distance Running Shoes for Energy Return: Karhu Ikoni 

Good for: Runners looking specifically for help with transitions and power coming out of the stride

Best for Energy Return

Karhu Men’s Ikoni 2.0 Running Shoes

GGR Score: 4.1

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Product Highlights

• High-cushion running shoe
• 6 colorways
• Sizes 8.5-14
• Made for all runners, regardless of level

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Knit mesh makeup made for breathability and support
• Built for runners by runners
• Cushioned midsole for added comfort

Cons

• Returns aren’t free
• They don’t come in wide or narrow options
• Limited color options compared to other brands

Bottom Line

Light, with more cushioning than before, the Men's Ikoni 2.0 from Karhu is an updated version of the previously loved Ikoni sneaker and is well-received by many wearers.

I was introduced to the Karhu brand through research for long-distance shoes specifically, and I ended up testing the Karhu Ikoni for consideration for inclusion in this guide. Looking at the Ikonis, they appear to be a basic running shoe. 

But once you slip them on, you’ll immediately notice they’re built with a specific purpose in mind: quick transitions. The Karhu Ikonis feature a half-length fulcrum that extends from the heel to the midfoot. Karhu claims that this fulcrum increases what it calls the “rolling effect,” or how your foot moves from foot strike to toe-off. 

Rated high on Karhu’s propulsion and guidance scales, the Ikoni intends to promote a fast, smooth toe-off while protecting the arch from collapsing upon impact with the ground. I was quite surprised with the momentum I felt while running in the Ikonis. I definitely feel the increased roll underfoot and I feel like my foot strike is more consistent when I wear these. 

In addition to the fulcrum, there is also a propulsion unit in the Karhu Ikonis. A propulsion unit is strategically placed, in this case in the forefoot part of the midsole, to enhance energy return and bounce. I can’t say I really noticed the effects of the propulsion unit, but I did notice the increased feedback of Karhu’s AeroFoam, which is not as soft as many other midsole foams and thus provides more responsiveness.

Like most road running shoes, the upper is constructed of a woven mesh and the outsole features mild but effective rubber tread. 

RELATED: Best Treadmill Running Shoes

Best Trail Long-Distance Running Shoes: Brooks Cascadia 16

Good for: Trail runners who need a comfortable, almost road-like running shoe for long trail sessions

Best for Trail

Brooks Cascadia 16

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Newer and lighter Cascadia 
• Trail running shoe 
• 15 colorways: 8 for men and 7 for women 
• Goes up to men's size 15 and women's 12

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Updated Ballistic rock shield
• Gaiter tab on heel
• Softer and lighter midsole cushioning
• Available in 2 widths: medium and wide
• 90-day trial and return period

Cons

• Numerous sizes sold out
• Customers complained wide options often sold out
• Long-time users prefer previous iterations

Bottom Line

The Cascadia 16 is the newest iteration of Brooks’ trail running shoe. It is lighter and features a new midsole and outsole. Long-time users may prefer previous versions of the Cascadia, but overall the shoe has positive reviews.

A lot of trail running shoes are stiff and clunky. Sometimes, those characteristics are necessary, such as when you’re tackling very tough terrain that requires technical, specific gear. But if you’re hitting more moderate trails—and want to run for long distances—the Brooks Cascadia 16 is my recommendation. 

My favorite thing about these is that they perform like a trail shoe but look and feel like a road shoe (with the exception of the outsole lugs). I like that I can wear them around Florida after it rains instead of boots but don’t look silly wearing mountain shoes in the city.

Based on my testing, the Cascadias should hold up through many miles in many conditions. The lugs on the outsole are thick and tall, and there’s a rock guard on the outsole as well. Additionally, the upper is woven so it’s breathable but it’s thicker than the mesh uppers you’ll see on road running shoes. There’s also a waterproof wrap around the toe box.

I feel safe and stable in these. I’ve worn them on loose cobblestone roads, hard-packed dirt trails, muddy trails, and running on sand, and they haven’t failed me yet. They almost feel like wearing cleats—you’ll definitely notice the lugs on smooth, flat surfaces.

My one complaint is that these shoes fit really tight at first. My feet ached in the midfoot region a little bit after my first run in them, which was on a soft, sandy trail. However, the shoes broke in very quickly and I haven’t had any issues since.

Best Cushioned Long-Distance Running Shoes: On Cloudstratus

Good for: Distance runners who need optimal shock absorption and want to look stylish, too

Best Cushion

On Cloudstratus 2.0

GGR Score: 4.25

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Product Highlights

• Features a double layer of CloudTec and Helion foam cushioning extended up the forefoot
• CloudTec technology is claimed to provide soft landings and a powerful push-off
• Speedboard placed underfoot designed to help the push-off on every stride
• Toe box is larger than previous models, accommodating those with wider feet and natural foot swelling
• Star-lacing system allows for a personalized and snug fit
• Comfortable inner sock

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight
• Highly cushioned
• Suits all distances
• Unique lacing system

Cons

• Not ideal for sprinting
• May feel too wide for some

Bottom Line

The On Cloudstratus 2.0 is a dually cushioned, neutral running shoe well suited for both short and long distances.

These are the squishiest shoes since HOKA Bondis. Well, not actually—we have yet to try a pair that’s more plush than the Bondis—but the Cloudstratus from On comes pretty dang close. Nicole, who tested the Cloudstratus shoes, says she really liked them, noting that they feel really stable despite the intense cushioning.

Appearance-wise, “They’re probably not for everybody, just like HOKAs, but I think they’re kind of cool-looking. Unique, and they have some cool color combos.” 

The On Cloudstratus shoes have a “nice structure to them.” Nicole says, and feel like they’ll last a long time. I feel the same way about my pair of On running shoes, the Cloudgos, and this is a common sentiment across our team thanks to the tightly woven engineered upper featured on most On shoes. 

While the Cloudstratus is the max-cushion option from On, it still doesn’t feel quite as shock-absorptive as a pair of HOKAs, Nicole says, but offers plenty of give in any case. “They’re a neutral shoe that has a good balance between stability and cushion, and that’s perfect for me,” Nicole explains. “However, if you really want a super cushioned ride, HOKA—specifically the Bondi or maybe the Clifton—is probably your best bet.”

At $170, Nicole isn’t sure if she’d buy them again, but recognizes they’re worth it for the right buyer, who would be a cushion-focused distance runner looking to stray from the typical dad vibe aesthetic that’s ubiquitous across running shoe brands.

Best Long-Distance Racing Shoes: Adidas Adios Adizero Pro 3

Good for: Racers who want a race day-specific shoe

Best for Racing

Adizero Adios Pro 3.0

GGR Score: 4

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Product Highlights

• Race shoe from Adidas
• Lightweight 
• Modern design
• Two layers of foam for added energy return

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Lightweight upper for flexibility
• Specifically made with marathon runners in mind
• Two layers of foam throughout for energy return

Cons

• Often sold out on the Adidas website
• Hard to find customer reviews on the shoe
• Not made for everyday use

Bottom Line

Perfect for marathon runners, the Adizero Adios Pro from Adidas unanimously combines comfort, durability, and style.

Designed specifically as marathon shoes, the Adidas Adios Adizero will have you saying “Adios!” to all of your competitors out on the route. Okay, they won’t win the race for you, but they can certainly help. 

According to tester Nicole, the Adios Adizero Pros are by far the most responsive running shoes she’s ever tried. “These are the springiest, most cushioned shoes I’ve ever worn. It’s kind of wild, actually,” she says. “There is so much energy return, and they would be great for half-marathon or marathon training.”

Aesthetically, “these are super modern and fun,” Nicole says. “The sole is a geometric shape and the upper is literally sheer with a bent-down heel tab—very unique overall.”

The upper is described as a “textile” upper, but according to Nicole, “it’s basically like mesh and literally see-through.” These definitely wouldn’t be good for precipitation, but we hope that on race day you’re encountering only clear skies. 

There are three layers of foam in the sole, which Nicole says she can definitely feel while wearing the shoes. “The experience this shoe gives is unlike anything I’ve experienced before—they are insanely springy and cushioned…you feel like you’re going to fly up with every step.” 

If that’s not exactly what you want on race day, then what is? 

The ultra-lightweight and sheer upper likely isn’t as durable as the traditional upper on running shoes. That, combined with the eyebrow-raising $250 price tag, is likely why many runners save this type of shoe (similarly to the Nike Vaporflys and Alphaflys, Saucony Endorphins, and ASICS Metaspeeds) for race day only. 

Nicole did say she had to return the shoes for a smaller size initially, but that the exchange process was simple and easy. If you tend to be in between sizes, consider sizing down if you decide to go after these shoes.

Other Long-Distance Running Shoes We Researched

• New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v12: A solid pick for wide feet with NB’s wide and extra-wide options
• Saucony Endorphin Speed: Saucony’s ultra-lightweight racing shoe with PWRRUN cushioning, which we haven’t tested yet
• Nike Air ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%: I wasn’t a fan of these during my testing; the sizing felt off and the shoes required too much adjustment from my typical stride
• ASICS Gel-Nimbus: We love ASICS, but our tester found this pair to lurch her forward too much. It may be a good option for someone looking to fix heel-striking patterns.
• Altra Olympus 5: A zero-drop trail running option with a plush stack height of 33 millimeters
• HOKA Clifton 8: A great pick all-around, but we liked other options for long distances better
• Brooks Adrenaline GTS: This is one of my personal favorite pairs since I like DNA LOFT cushioning, but I prefer my HOKA Mach 5s for longer distances since they are more lightweight.
• Brooks Ghost: I also love the Ghosts and run in them often, but after trying many more pairs, I think there are better options for long distances.
• Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39: Our tester liked them, but thinks there are better options available for the price point.
• Mizuno Wave Horizon: A good stability option, but maybe not enough cushioning for long distances for most people.

How We Picked and Tested the Best Long-Distance Running Shoes

Testing, testing, 1, 2, 3! At GGR, product testing is the foundation of everything we do. We make recommendations based on how products perform in our day-to-day lives. 

When it comes to shoes, we wear them for miles of walking and running, from intense cardio sessions to simply walking around town running errands. (See the best walking shoes, too.)

Our product testers, who are also certified personal trainers and longtime fitness enthusiasts, rate each pair of shoes for various criteria, including: fit, comfort, durability, construction, performance, weatherproofness, stability, shock absorption, transitions, traction, and value. 

Benefits of Good Long-Distance Running Shoes

No matter what type of runner you are, it’s important to find well-fitting shoes that are designed to support the workouts you intend to do. Shoes designed for long-distance running specifically generally provide the following benefits: 

• Lightweightness 
• Shock absorption 
• Energy return/bounciness 
• Assistance with the foot roll 

Together, these features help you go the distance by minimizing the amount of impact your joints take, as well as keeping your stride efficient and strong in terms of technique.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in Long-Distance Running Shoes

As you search for your new pair of long-distance running shoes, consider these factors.

Comfort and Fit 

An improperly fitting shoe means blisters and sore feet. A properly fitting shoe means speed, efficiency, and a higher probability of obtaining a coveted runner’s high since you won’t be worried about how bad your feet hurt. 

• Midfoot: Around the arch and the bony top part of your foot, the shoe should feel snug and supportive but not too tight
• Insole: This is the part of the shoe that lies immediately underfoot. It should provide ample arch support, but not roll your foot into a supinated position. 
• Tongue and lacing: You want a tongue that’s flexible and soft, and laces that aren’t too starchy or stiff.
• Heel counter: Your heel should fit snugly, like it’s being cradled—but not squeezed.
• Toe box: This area around your forefoot should feel spacious, not constricting.
• Upper: The textile on the top of the shoe should feel flexible but durable, and breathable

Cushioning and Shock Absorption

The midsole is arguably the most important component of a running shoe. This typically thick foam layer lies under the insole and is responsible for how you feel at each foot strike. Some midsoles are constructed of simple foam, while others have rockers to assist with transitions, components to combat overpronation, or other features specific to certain populations or problems. 

Traction

If you plan to run in wet conditions or on trails, definitely give the rubber outsole a good inspection. The deeper the lugs, generally, the better they will grip the terrain below your feet. 

Weatherproofness 

Most road running shoes are designed with engineered mesh uppers for breathability. You may have to sacrifice some of that breathability if you run in wet conditions or on trails where the terrain is wet. An upper made of a water-resistant material like GORETEX is better for wet weather.

FAQs

Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC

Amanda is a content writer and journalist with extensive experience in the health, fitness, lifestyle, and nutrition niches. Before joining Garage Gym Reviews, she worked as an independent writer for various brands and outlets.Her work has appeared in national and global digital publications, including Health.com and Shape.com (Meredith Corporation), CNET (Red Ventures, formerly ViacomCBS), LIVESTRONG (Leaf Group), Verywell Fit and The Balance (DotDash), SlickDeals (Goldman Sachs/Hearst), Health Journal, and more.Now, Amanda brings her expertise in fitness to the GGR team by testing equipment and writing authentic, honest reviews on everything you might need to stock your home gym.

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