Racing shoes have seen remarkable advancements in technology, and 2024 is no exception. This year has brought us some of the most innovative and high-performance racing shoes to date. In this article, we break down the five best super shoes of 2024, with insights into their features, strengths, and potential drawbacks.
There are two things to clear up before we dive into our top five for 2024.
Firstly, this ranking is for racing shoes only. If you’re looking for our ranking on training shoes, you can find it here.
Secondly, this ranking is a compilation of shoes we like. However, if you have a pair of racing shoes that works for you but isn’t on the list, don’t go a toss them in the bin to buy what we recommend. If you’re curious and in the market for a new pair of training shoes, then by all means use this guide to help inform a decision.
The 5 Best Training Shoes Of 2024…So Far
- #1 Best for Versatility: Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3
↓ jump to review - #2 Best for Powerful Propulsion: Nike Alphafly 3
↓ jump to review - #3 Best for A Responsive Feel: Adidas Adios Pro 3
↓ jump to review - #4 Best Lightweight: ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris
↓ jump to review - #5 Most Popular: Nike Vaporfly 3
↓ jump to review
- All of our shoe testers are died-in-the-wool, experienced runners with a broad experience of the sport. They’re typically running 30+ miles per week.
- We put each pair of shoes through a battery of tests: a typical review will involve several test runs on a variety of distances and terrains, designed to identify any snags or issues.
- We talk to experts in the shoe industry and gather advice and insights from other runners, to best understand the shoe and how it suits the end user: you, the runner.
#1 Best for Versatility: Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3
- MSRP: $230 USD
- Release date: June 17
- Stack height: 40mm
- Weight: 6.84 oz (men’s size 10)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
The Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3 is a revelation in the racing shoe market. Initially overlooked due to Puma’s association with sprinting, this shoe gained recognition after notable performances at the US Olympic Marathon Trials. The Deviate Nitro Elite 3 boasts all the essential features of a super shoe: a carbon fiber plate, nitrogen-infused foam, and a remarkably light weight of under 7 ounces.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Design: At under 7 ounces, it’s one of the lightest racing shoes available.
- Versatility: Suitable for distances from 5K to marathons.
- Midfoot Runner Friendly: Designed to provide comfort without forcing runners onto their toes.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Price: Positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum.
- Chafing: Minor chafing on longer runs for sensitive feet.
- Cushioning: Not ideal for those seeking maximum support and cushioning.
#2 Best for Powerful Propulsion: Nike Alphafly 3
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Nike Alphafly 3
- MSRP: $285 USD
- Release date: January 4
- Stack height: 40mm
- Weight: 7.0 oz (men’s size 10)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
The Nike Alphafly 3 has generated significant buzz, known for its impressive performance-enhancing features. With a design featuring a substantial chunk of ZoomX foam, a heavy-duty carbon fiber plate, and Air Zoom pods, the Alphafly 3 is all about power and propulsion.
Key Features:
- Powerful Propulsion: Provides an aggressive push-off, enhancing speed.
- Durability: Built to last with high-quality materials.
- Trendiest Choice: Favored by elite runners like Kelvin Kiptum, who broke the men’s marathon world record wearing these shoes.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Weight: Heavier than many other racing shoes, which might affect stride.
- Height: The tall platform may feel unstable for some runners.
#3 Best for A Responsive Feel: Adidas Adios Pro 3
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Adidas Adios Pro 3
- MSRP: $200 USD
- Release date: June 1
- Stack height: 39.5mm
- Weight: 7.58 oz (men’s size 10)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8.5mm
The Adidas Adios Pro 3, often overshadowed by its more hyped sibling, the Pro EVO One, is a sleeper hit among racing shoes. It combines lightweight construction with a highly responsive carbon plate design, making it a top choice for many elite runners.
Key Features:
- Efficient Design: Lighter than the Alphafly 3, with a close-to-the-ground feel.
- Responsive Carbon Plate: Three metatarsal fanges enhance responsiveness.
- Pro Runner Approved: Used by top athletes like Joyciline Jepkosgei and Rosemary Wanjiru in major marathons.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Hard Feel: Less cushioning, which might not suit everyone.
- Aggressiveness: Feels awkward at speeds slower than race pace.
#4 Best Lightweight: ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris
The Deets: Tech Specs For The ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris
- MSRP: $250 USD
- Release date: March 4
- Stack height: 39.5mm
- Weight: 6.4 oz (men’s size 9)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm
The Asics Metaspeed Sky Paris has gained a following among runners who prefer a balance of power and minimalism. This shoe is favored by North America’s fastest marathoner, Cam Levins, for its lightweight and propulsive qualities.
Key Features:
- Lightweight: Minimal build compared to other super shoes.
- Dual Styles: Available in Metaspeed Sky and Metaspeed Edge, catering to different running styles.
- Ground Feel: Offers a connection to the ground, appealing to those who dislike bulkier shoes.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Minimal Cushioning: Not for those seeking maximum midsole muscle.
- Toe Propulsion: Designed to propel runners onto their toes, which may not suit midfoot or heel strikers.
#5 Most Popular: Nike Vaporfly 3
The Deets: Tech Specs For The Nike Vaporfly 3
- MSRP: $260 USD
- Release date: March 6
- Stack height: 39mm
- Weight: 6.7 oz (men’s size 9)
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10mm
Topping the list is the Nike Vaporfly 3, a shoe that combines lightness and power seamlessly. Seen frequently at major marathons, this shoe is preferred by many for its balanced design and performance.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and Powerful: Similar to the Metaspeed Sky Paris but with a bit more muscle.
- Versatile Performance: Effective for distances from 5K to marathon.
- Popularity: Widely favored by both casual and elite runners.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Spring and Durability: While powerful, it doesn’t match the Alphafly 3 in these metrics.
