The journey of a thousand miles begins with a step – in the right shoes, of course.
Imagine all the pains and complications that come with running with the wrong shoe; No one wants that.
Running long distances in the perfect shoes makes you faster, stronger, and less prone to injuries. You cannot afford to endure the unnecessary discomfort it promotes throughout that distance.
Choosing the most suitable shoe for running long distances turns out to be a daunting task for many athletes. This is due to the ton of options out there in the market. But you’re lucky to be reading this.
The shoes featured here are a perfect mix of quality shock absorption, comfort, responsiveness, ventilation, and durability.
We have narrowed down the gazillion options to these 10 best running shoes for long distances.
However, If you don’t have the time to scroll to the end, then check out our most recommended product – ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes.
Best Long Distance Running Shoes
1. ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes
The re-engineered extra wide width men’s running shoe is designed to offer comfort and impeccable fit features desired by every athlete.
This product causes the foot to rolls inward while dealing with shock from landing. The outsole guidance line ensures that pressure is evenly distributed from the front of the toe. The Nimbus has arch support for neutral arches.
They come in lightweight, up to 11.6 ounces, 10mm higher than barefoot. They have a super breathable mesh that adapts to the movement of your feet and a firm heel counter to secure your ankle. The cushioning in the midsole is perfect for long distances.
This pair is from the world of technology. There is the presence of an ortholite sock liner for moisture management and breathability. The flyte foam propel technology is responsible for the responsiveness and bounce you need for that run.
Pros
- The plush, padded heel collar, and tongue guarantees comfort
- Wide toe box to accommodates different foot shapes
- External heel counter ensures a secure fit
- Moisture management is possible by the ortholite sock liner
- Upper mesh makes your feet breathable and comfortable
Cons
- Quite expensive when compared to others
Are you a long-distance runner looking for excellence. This is your solution. The ASICS Nimbus 21 is high quality and feels lighter as you run mile after mile. It promises to absorb every shock and makes you feel like you’re running in the clouds.
Asics is a well-known brand for its running shoes. Here is a comparison in-depth article about excellent running shoes from Asics.
2. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 19
The first thing on your mind at first sight of these bad guys is aesthetics and structure.
The Adrenaline GTS is the flagship stability shoe from Brooks. The GTS stands for ‘Go-To Shoe’; they relied on and are regularly sought out during rigorous sports activities.
The new streamlined structure, plush cushioning, and dependent feedback of the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 make it a mouth-watering option.
This pair was manufactured at the heart of smart technology featuring an engineered mesh and 3D fit print upper that provides structure and excellent fit. Also, the presence of GuideRail’s holistic support system keeps the heel in place and reduces heel eversion that leads to knee issues.
The BioMoGo DNA and DNA loft cushioning combine to provide the right softness underfoot, and this is not at the expense of durability and responsiveness.
Pros
- Engineered mesh solves the problem of fit
- Features Guide Rails checks heel eversion that leads to knee issues
- Technology-inspired cushioning, comfort, and energy return underfoot
- Wide toe box provides enough room for feet to splay out
- Wavy flex grooves in the outside ensure maximum forefoot stability
Cons
- Not the most light-weight
- It lacks agility and ability for a high stride rate
- Low arch support for high arches
Finally, here is the solution for your toe box issues. Also, if you’re a runner faced with leg cramps, muscle strain, calluses, toe squishing, and the likes, then search no further. The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 19 is the shoe for runners who excessively overpronate.
Running shoes from Brooks are an excellent choice as they are breathable and lightweight for your comfortable long run.
3. New Balance Men’s 1080v9 Running Shoe
It will interest you to know that that the New Balance fresh foam running shoe has been engineered with a full-length fresh foam in the midsole. This improvement was effected based on data collected from real runners.
The manufacturer paid attention to details. He includes a double jacquard upper and comfortable ortholite insole to dial-up comfort-level, mile after mile.
The blown rubber outsole ensures durability. More flex and grooves in the rubber outsole allow for optimal flexibility on your runs.
Amidst other features, the shoe has an engineered mesh for comfort; it is relatively light (294g) and possesses a bootie construction for a custom-like fit.
Pros
- More voluminous and wide, hence runs true to size
- Soft, fresh foam enhances cushioning and stability
- Spring-back sensation enhances responsiveness
- Blown rubber outsole ensures durability
- Ortholite insole eases up pain and increases your level of comfort, mile after mile
- This 9th version of the New Balance is significantly lighter than older versions
Cons
- Cushioning is excessive for long runs
- Rigid as the forefoot is resistant to bending
- A little bit pricy
The 1080 v9 is perfect for the neutral road runner seeking comfort, style, and durability from their shoes. Although there are silent criticisms about the fit and price, it passes for efficient running footwear.
4. adidas Men’s Adizero Boston 7 Running Shoe
Are you a focused runner in need of a pair of running shoes to help you keep your eyes on the ball? The Adizero Boston 7 blesses you with a connection to the road.
This pair is lightweight and fast. It is made up of a breathable air mesh that grants your foot the ventilation and comfort it desires. The responsive cushioning is intriguing: you get just the same energy you put in.
A notable feature to guide your choice is the micro fit system. This locks down the heel and midfoot for a secure fit while running. I bet you, the cushioning and flexibility of the outsole delivers a smooth, vibrant ride and superior traction.
Here is some additional information to whet your appetite: This product is a road shoe with neutral arch support. It is characterized by a 10mm heel to toe drop and weighs 213g for females and 249g for males.
Pros
- Microfit allows for direct and high-speed
- Upper mesh is comfortable and breathable
- 10mm offset prevents injuries and blisters
- Stylish and has a wide range of colorways to cater to your preferences
- Suitable for smooth ride and transitions
- Very lightweight
Cons
- The toe box is narrow, so as the entire shoe
- Shoe runs slightly small for size
The Boston 7 is a superb racing shoe with a secure fit and quicker transition. The footwear is most suitable for spartan race, marathons, and other long-distance runs. Generally, customer’s reviews on the shoe’s functionality have made it worthy of purchase.
5. Saucony Men’s Freedom ISO Running Shoe
The world has gone digital. The shoe world is not left out. The Saucony was manufactured as a result of research on the biomechanical of highly rated athletes.
With the first-ever full-length Ever run midsole, you can rest assured of the energy the Freedom ISO offers with every stride. Vivacious, responsive, smoother landings and stronger takeoffs are analogous with this pair.
Can you imagine? The 4mm heel to toe offset makes your ride as natural as ever. This feature provides cushioning and stability, making you a success in your runs.
The outsole is just amazing. The crystal rubber accounts for excellent traction and durability of the outsole. The outsole is also elastic and flexible, leaving you with a fluid feel.
Can you guess what the “ISO” is doing in the nomenclature? It is a revolutionary system that has the ability to morph to the foot for a custom feel.
Pros
- Full-length EVERUN delivers a responsive and smooth ride
- The shoe is almost zero drops and not at the expense of protection
- The durability is mind-blowing, thanks to the new outsole
- A comfortable, glove-like feel is obtainable from the ISO fit upper
Cons
- Extra ball of padding can get a little discomforting
- The shoe is a bit too narrow
- The shoe runs a bit small for the size
The Saucony Freedom ISO Running shoes have impressed the shoe world with the full-length EVERUN foam. Now runners can boast of a more responsive and steady cushioning. Also, the new ISO upper grants a barefoot feel that ensures a perfect fit.
6. Mizuno Men’s Wave Inspire 12 Running Shoe
“I don’t stop until I’m done.” This can be your testimony also, when you are in the right shoes, of course!!
The wave inspires 12 exist to satisfy runners seeking guidance by striking a balance between dynamic support and flexibility in this pair of running shoes.
I’ll briefly enlighten you on the make-up of this shoe; there’s a Double Fan Wave for optimal support, excluding an additional weight or rigidity. The presence of the U4icX heel wedge allows for more cushioning at every strike.
The air mesh has been improved to ensure flexibility and breathability. The collar is made from a soft material to provide a snug, comfortable heel fit without frustration.
The wave 12 inspires you right on whichever terrain you’re running on, whether smooth or uneven terrains.
Pros
- Soft and more coherent air mesh upper allows for foot breathability
- The outsole provides you with durability and responsiveness
- Wave technology improves shock dispersion from impact
- U4icx technology enhances cushioning in the midsole
- The price is affordable
Cons
- The shoe is 51g heavier than the previous ones
- The toe box is narrow
- The extra height of the shoe may not be appreciated by every athlete
The Muzuno has proven its fidelity over time. For the wave inspire 12, the outstanding feature is the wave plate for shock dispersion and stability. It is the best for runners with wide feet because of the increased support for the foot.
7. adidas Men’s Ultraboost 19 Running Shoe
The Adidas is at it again. This time they plan to sweep you off your feet with this high performance, neutral running shoes. Comfort and responsiveness are synonymous with this pair.
A quick summary of the shoe includes the lace closure, primeknit 360 uppers that wrap the feet like a second skin.
The flexible stretch web outsole provides inexplicable traction in wet and dry conditions. The midsole is adorned with a responsive boost and stabilizing torsion spring. This is the reason for responsiveness in the shoes.
The lightweight and propulsion can be traced to the seamless knit upper, engineered with a motion weave technology to provide a stretchy but firm feel as you run.
Pros
- Second-skin fit reduces pressure points
- Seamless upper expands for a comfortable fit
- It has been improved to regain 20% more energy when you run
- Stretch web outsole ensures flexibility and excellent traction
- Lightweight and adaption feel like you’re running in clouds
- Heel counter allows for optimal movement of Achilles support
- Torsion spring supply ample support during landing and propulsion at toe-off
Cons
- Misleading color representation
- Limited color to cater to preferences
- They take a little bit of time to break-in
The outstanding features of this pair are comfort and responsiveness. Are you into marathons and long-distance races, you need a system that retains energy in your foot as you run? This pair was specially designed for you.
8. Salomon XA Pro 3D Mens Trail Running Shoes
The iconic tested and trusted shoe offers an incredible fit, improved durability, and a grip that inspires confidence. This is a perfect choice for hiking, providing you with support for different terrains.
These shoes provide a good grip for your feet. Its Contargrip outsoles are ideal for wet and dry surfaces providing excellent traction.
Your toes will remain in good shape after that long rocky hike thanks to the protective rubber toe caps. Also available are the Ortholite footbeds that provide quality shock absorption as well as cushioning for your feet.
With the quick lace feature, you spend no unnecessary time in lacing the shoes, just a toggle, and you’re ready to go.
Read more: The 7 Excellent Hiking Shoes for Flat Feet of 2022
Pros
- Rubber toe cap for optimal protection
- Quick lace for easy on and off
- The Quick-drying breathable mesh leaves you in comfort
- It comes in various colors to cater to your preferences
- The sole is durable and provides excellent traction
Cons
- It might appear expensive
- May run small for size
- May take time to stretch out and fit properly
For a long-distance pair, this offers you stability on the outside while ensuring the comfort of your feet throughout your mileage. This is a combination of different impressive technology, providing you with a great experience during your next visit to the mountains. The price may appear to be on the high side, but it’s definitely worth it.
9. Saucony Men’s Ride 6 Running Shoe
This Saucony’s Flagship neutral running shoes were designed to give you speed and responsiveness as you run.
This product is designed for athletes who have a neutral gait and who have normal to mind underpronation. The 8mm drop provides balance and enhances comfort when moving forward. The Eva liner offers a bit of rebound and responsiveness.
The shoe is flexible, lightweight, well-cushioned, and provides an excellent rebound. The shoe is breathable, durable, and can withstand various weather conditions, courtesy of its firmly structured mesh upper.
The midsole is characterized by PowerGrid technology. It is light in weight and doesn’t compromise structure and support.
The rubber outsole prevents wear and tear.
Finally, the Saucony Ride 6, provides a comfortable, smooth ride, thanks to this new PowerGrid midsole material.
Pros
- The shoe is sufficiently stable
- PowerGrid midsole attenuates shock
- As light as a feather (9.6 ounces)
- Appropriately cushioned and comfortable
- Rubber outsole protects the shoe from wear and tear
- Dual-layer mesh upper provides protection and ventilation
- The vibrant hues are attractive
Cons
- The shoe has a weak ground feel
- Quite rigid in the forefoot
- Deficient in flexibility
The shoe is recommended for runners with a neutral gait. The shoes are also the right choice for runners with normal to high arches. The shoe provides you with all the comfort you need to focus on the activity and not the product.
10. HOKA ONE ONE Womens Cavu Running Shoe
This new product has won the hearts of many athletes. The lightweight Cavu charms you with its versatility, simplicity, and boldness.
The lower midsole is characterized by the praised PROFLY™ cushioning softer in the heel for shock absorption and firmer in the forefoot for propulsion.
The manufacturer has impressed the shoe world by making the outsole with a zonal rubberized foam to rev up the responsiveness. The super engineered mesh upper allows the foot to breathe.
Because of its lightweight, this shoe really disappears on foot, and it delivers a smooth, light ride. With Cavu, your destination is closer than ever.
Pros
- Presence of internal structural braces for invisible support
- The engineered mesh allows for excellent breathability and a comfortable fit
- Comfortable Lycra material just below the engineered mesh provides a seamless layer next to the skin
- Profly midsole offers a blend of propulsion and protection
- The outsole is designed to provide excellent traction
- Rubberized foam outsole for lightweight, soft ground contact and responsive cushioning
Cons
- The shoe runs too big but can be remedied by inserting pads
- The collar rubs against the ankle
- The shoe’s fit is inconsistent
The Hoka One One Cavu was recently added to the long line of running shoes, yet it has won the hearts of many runners. Protection and propulsion, possible by the Profly midsole, should attract you to this product.
Things to Consider When Buying Long Distance Running Shoes
Running is already strenuous. Don’t add to your problems by purchasing the wrong running shoes for long distances. A few things must be in place to help you settle for what suits you best and eradicate regrets. They include;
Shock Absorption
Running introduces several impacts to your feet. The aim of introducing shock-absorbent technologies in the midsole is to dissipate and disperse the amount of kinetic energy that is transferred to your foot, which is not good at all because it can cause fatigue as well as stress fractures and exhaustion.
So in looking out for shoes for long-distance running, you must ensure that the shoe utilizes shock-absorbing technologies, usually within the midsole. DNA loft cushioning, BioMoGo and DNA midsole, U4icx midsole, flyte foam midsole, fresh foam midsole amidst other technologies are what you should lookout for a while trying to purchase your running shoes.
Comfort
The importance of comfort in your running shoes cannot be overemphasized. In fact, it tops the list of things to look out for when you want to purchase your running shoes.
Footwear with soft, breathable, and comfortable uppers spare you the unnecessary drama on your run. Also, a wide toe box, nearly zero drop shoes, comfy midsoles, and outsoles should be scrutinized appropriately to get a good deal of comfort.
You must look out for shoes that fit perfectly. Now knowing your shoe size is not the only factor you consider if you want to be comfortable. Other factors like the offset, midsole, outsold, width, toe box, and upper units must be checked. You can use customer reviews to give you information about such factors.
Responsiveness
One attribute that most companies are investing in is responsiveness. It is what is responsible for the shoe, pushing you to the next step and ensuring speed. It is also referred to as the energy of the shoe.
While running energy is released for your push-offs and strides. Lots of energy are lost as heat in the shoes or when the feet strike the ground. The remaining energy from that point that is needed for the next step is what is called responsiveness.
Most running shoes are designed to minimize the amount of energy lost by coming up with different responsive technologies.
Ventilation
For this feature, what you should pick on is the upper mesh. Do you think it is breathable? If no, you have to go over the process again.
The importance of this feature is to prevent your feet from sweaty, then discomforting, and finally, smelly. Once your shoes develop that smell, you know how difficult it is to get rid of it.
Durability
This feature is what every runner must look out for, except you have plans to keep changing your shoes when they have not served their purpose. You must not sacrifice durability on the altar of aesthetics. That will be majoring on the minor.
The reviewed shoes above have proven to be durable. Most materials that make up these shoes were designed with amazing technologies to make them stand the test of time. Some of them include synthetic rubber outsoles, engineered mesh uppers, wave technology, crystal rubber outsoles. Durable shoes can withstand hard terrains without falling apart.
The fact that they are proven to be durable does not mean that you should mishandle them. Proper management and effective running contribute to how long your shoes will last.
Weight
This feature is relative. While some shoes are required to be weighty, others are not. Now a lot of things can contribute to the weight of the shoe: the offset, padded foams, midsole, outsole, etc.
The weight of a running shoe differs from that of a walking shoe. Walking shoes and barefoot shoes are lighter than running shoes.
So, while choosing your long-distance running shoes, don’t expect it to be as light as walking or barefoot shoes. But, they should not be too heavy for your feet. You should be able to tell what level of weight you can cope with. There’s no stereotype weight to look out for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is the difference between the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 18 and 19?
A. Brooks Adrenaline 19 has updated the midsole material to the new DNA Loft foam, which is a bit softer and more flexible than the old DNA foam. The Adrenaline GTS 19 is a bit narrower but has a much deeper toe box. It also runs a half-size longer than the 18.
Q. What do the letters A, B, D, E after the size mean?
A. I’ll give a rundown of what all the letters mean:
2A- Extremely Narrow
B- Standard Narrow
D- Standard wide
2E- Extra wide
4E- Extra wide
Please note that the variations of the width: narrow, standard, wide, and extra wide are only a few millimeters apart and are proportional to the size of the shoe. Most additional width will be found in the forefoot area.
Q. Are these shoes suitable for supination or flat-footed people?
A. This shoe is best for people with flat feet (supination). They’re stable and supportive and suitable for a foot with slight pronation. These shoes do not specialize in correcting any specific foot condition, but you can install orthotic inserts specific for under pronation.
Q. When is the best time to change my running shoes?
A. If you have run 300-500 miles, it is advisable to get new pairs. Why range? This is because the rate at which your running shoes wear out differs from individuals to individuals. Landing hard on your heels per stride will wear your shoes out faster than more efficient athletes.
If you begin to observe a decline in the quality of your shoes, which most times, deteriorates effectiveness, it is time to get new pairs.
Q. I have plantar Fasciitis. I am a high arches runner. What should I look out for in a shoe to curb the pain?
A. You should look out for comfort while purchasing your running shoes.
This comfort can come from a combination of the inner soles that bridge the gap between the toes and heel, a wide toe- box for the toes to splay out, and an insert with arch support feature (built-in or removable), mesh top units for lightweight and breathability.
Your running shoes ought to have insoles that provide an extra cushioning in the heel or arch. This is because they reduce excessive pressure and distribute body weight across the feet.
Extra cushioning and arch support you need may not be so available in the reviewed shoes above.
Q. I just got this pair, and I’m already noticing some damages. Does the surface you run on contribute to the breakdown of your shoes?
A. Yes. Surfaces contribute to the lifespan of your shoes. Trail running will take a lesser time to wear your shoes out than road running.
However, other factors can contribute. If, for example, A 200lb heavy heel trail runner will wear his shoes out faster than a 100lb efficient runner.
If the damage has gone bad beyond repair: your foot slides off the midsole because the upper layer has been stretched apart from the outsole, it’s time for a replacement.
Q. How do I clean running shoes?
A. Remove the insole or sock-liner and wash them separately. Remove the laces and wash them. Get mud and grit off the shoe. The outsole can be washed with a brush since it is made of rubber.
Do not wash the mesh with a brush; you’ll ruin your shoes. Allow your shoes to dry naturally – don’t put them on the radiator and avoid direct sunlight.
Conclusion
When looking for running shoes for long distances, you must not be carried away by looks. Do well to subject every shoe to scrutiny. Remember, your runs are probably going to belong, and you cannot afford to pick a problematic shoe.
More so, your comfort should matter to you. Since every landing comes with impact, a shoe that cushions your foot and retains some of the energy your body loses is paramount.
After comparing and contrasting conditions, we recommend the ASICS Men’s Gel-Nimbus 21 Running Shoes for you.
This shoe is a perfect combo of technology and aesthetics to give agility and comfort while on track.
Comfort, responsiveness, lightweight, ventilation, and durability are features you don’t want to trade for anything while trying to purchase running shoes for long distances.
From the detailed review above, you have the best guide to pick the best shoes for long distances that will satisfy every demand and offer value over a long period.
Henceforth, you’ll see an inexplicable reduction in cramps, discomfort, and complains while you run!
Related Reviews:
- Top 7 Running Shoes for Ice and Snow
- A Deeper Look at Shoes for Running on Grass
- Buying Guide of Shoes for Running on Concrete
- A Quick Guide at Puma Running Shoes
Additional Resources:
- Choosing the Right Marathon Running Shoe, by worldsmarathons
- Gender Specific Vs. Customization: the Running Shoe Industry’s Latest Debate, by triathlete