The 4 Best Shoes for Marathon Running
If there is something runners understand well, it’s that not all running shoes are the same. Each pair has to offer a combination of protection, durability, and energy conservation so runners can experience the thrill of achieving high speeds without worrying about the risk of injury.
In order to tackle these problems, different brands have developed different proprietary technologies, creating excellent running shoes for different occasions. Below are a few of my favorite pairs for marathon running and why they’re so special.
Brooks Launch Running Shoes
As rewarding as finishing a marathon can be, runners would never be able to make long-distance competitions part of their daily routine. In fact, most days are spent strengthening their body through moderate or low intensity runs, which require shoes capable of withstanding daily usage, while also providing enough comfort to make the training process enjoyable.
As I have mentioned previously, Brooks Launch Running shoes are a particular favorite for running. With medium weight and moderate cushioning, it’s great for runners starting their training, but it’s also durable enough to sustain daily runs of varied intensity. Its low price also allows buyers to get an additional backup pair in case the first gets too muddy or wet due to harsh weather conditions.
Adidas Ultra Boost
Most popular running shoes offer some sort of protection by reducing slipping or limiting the angle at which the ankle moves, reducing the chances of overpronation. Having said this, designers can’t ignore the other factors like traction and speed.
An article titled ‘The New Classics of Performance Running’ details how the Adidas Ultra Boost has a characteristic patterned sole that contains multiple pods of thermoplastic polyurethane. These are designed not just to provide comfort, but also to protect the feet and legs during long running sessions. The heel frame offers additional protection by changing on impact and returning to its original shape for proper support.
Nike Vaporfly Next% V2
Runners are attracted by the rush they experience when achieving their maximum speed, which is why sneaker brands are constantly developing technology capable of providing faster times with less effort. Most solutions tend to focus on energy conservation, a topic that has become surprisingly controversial.
Nike Vaporfly’s carbon fiber plate is what gives the pair its ability to store energy as the runner’s foot hits the ground. This energy is then released as they lift their foot to propel them forward. The technology is so effective in fact, that people are starting to question if their usage during competitions provides an unfair advantage.
Asics MetaSpeed Sky
The advances in speed-boosting technology are nothing less than impressive. But the ability of designers to integrate additional mechanisms to provide stability and adaptive fits also deserves some praise.
Asics MetaSpeed Sky shoes also use carbon plates that bend downwards, compressing as the heel first touches the ground, and releasing the energy as the foot leaves it. However, despite its ability to use the runners’ own energy to push them forward, these shoes have unrivaled levels of stability.
Training for and running in a marathon is an invigorating experience. However, without the right gear, this highly demanding sport isn’t sustainable. Safe running is only possible with high-quality shoes, and though it may take a runner some time to find the right pair, the returns are definitely worth it.
