How do you break in shoes before a marathon?

“Today’s running shoes should feel great right out of the box,” says Rob Conenello , DPM, FACFAS, FAAPSM, a New York-based sports podiatrist. “That being said, I would suggest testing shoes out on several long runs before committing to the race day shoe.” There's a common misconception that all shoes require a break-in period, but according to Dr. Conenello, if your running shoes don't feel good the first time you put them on, you should find a different pair.

When should you replace running shoes?

“Most running shoes are designed to last 300 to 400 miles,” says Brent Pease , head coach of runners and triathletes for Dynamo Multisport. “There are some that will be a little less and some that can last up to 500 miles.” It’s important to regularly replace your running shoes to prevent overuse injuries that can occur from running in shoes that have lost their cushioning and support. Be sure to check your shoes for wear and tear. “Inspect the outsole to see if the tread has worn away and the midsole is being exposed, and look for any significant, uneven wearing that’s making the shoes unstable,” says Ronto. He explains that excessive creasing in the midsole is also a sign that the shoe is losing its original cushioning and response.

How do you clean marathon shoes?

You can clean marathon shoes at home during a mixture of water and your favorite laundry detergent. Add a few drops of the detergent into a small bowl of water and dip a toothbrush or other small brush into it. Clean your shoes using round strokes. Allow your shoes to air dry. You can use the smallest attachment from your vacuum cleaner to remove any extra rocks or road debris that found their way to the inside of the shoe.

What types of shoes do Olympic marathon runners wear?

Marathon shoes for Olympians definitely take a beating because Olympic marathoners run hard and put in high mileage each week, as well as endure tough conditions and rough surfaces. But the type of shoes each Olympian chooses is typically based on personal preference. Where they do most of their mileage is a big factor in selecting the right running shoe. For instance, if they primarily train on trails, they'll use a shoe with more traction and stability than shoes that are designed for road running. During races, however, they would use a shoe for road running. Some Olympic runners are sponsored by running apparel and shoe organizations, and they will exclusively wear that brand, per their contracts. Other Olympic runners might create their own running shoe to wear and sell to pay for training costs.

How do you make sure your marathon shoes fit?

Marathon runners should wear running shoes that are a half-size to a full size bigger than their regular shoe size. Having some extra room in the toebox will help prevent foot issues such as blisters and bunions that can happen when feet swell during long runs.

The 13 Best Marathon Shoes, According to a Running Coach

Determination alone won't get you to the finish line when you're running a marathon, and that's why it's important to have the right running shoes to safely and comfortably help you go the distance. The best marathon shoes are durable, comfortable, supportive, and match your running gait.

Choosing a running shoe is an individual endeavor since each runner has personal preferences and needs. "Some may want race shoes while others may want recovery shoes," says Paul Ronto, ultra-runner, gear expert, and chief marketing officer for RunRepeat.com. We sorted through a variety of options for seasoned and new distance runners.

We chose the best marathon shoes by researching reviews, top running shoe lists, and details about more than 60 running shoes from 12 trusted shoe manufacturers. We looked at performance, features, materials, technology, design, and durability and also read dozens of articles on the latest models of running shoes. We also consulted distance runners and coaches for recommendations on shoes for marathoners and reviewed the American Podiatric Medical Association's list of shoes that have received its Seal of Acceptance.

In addition, we had an RRCA- and USATF-certified running coach from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in marathon shoes, how to properly break them in, and how to know when they need replacing.

Here are the best marathon shoes on the market, according to a running coach.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall for Men:

Brooks Ghost 14 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Overall for Women:

Asics Gel-Nimbus 23 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget for Men:

Saucony Cohesion 14 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Budget for Women:

ASICS Gel-Excite 8 Running Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Stability:

New Balance 940v4 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Overpronators:

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 21 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Flat Feet:

Brooks Glycerin 19 Running Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Plantar Fasciitis:

New Balance Fresh Foam Running Shoe at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best for Trail Marathons:

Hoka One One Speedgoat 4 at Amazon

Jump to Review

Best Minimalist:

Altra Rivera at Zappos

Jump to Review

In This Article

Our Picks
What to Look For
FAQ
Why Trust Verywell Fit

4.7

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Well-cushioned
Lightweight and breathable
Works for short or long runs
Flexible

Cons

Limited wide and narrow options
Runs small

Marathon runners will appreciate the Brooks Ghost for its exceptional cushioning, lightweight feel, and support. A popular pick among neutral runners, the shoe features high-energizing cushioning that can withstand the pounding of long training runs and provides responsive bounce back with each step. While it’s perfect for long runs, the Ghost’s flexibility and grippy outsole also make it a dependable shoe for faster workouts like tempo runs.

The breathable engineered mesh upper is lightweight yet durable, offering a comfortable fit that will keep your feet blister-free. This versatile and well-rounded shoe comes in narrow, medium, wide, or extra-wide widths and men’s sizes 7 to 15. It's also PDAC A5500 Diabetic Certified and has the APMA Seal of Acceptance.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: DNA Loft foam | Closure: Lace-up}

4.7

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Dick's View On Asics.com

Pros

Stellar cushioning
Roomy fit
Good shock absorption
Durable

Cons

Expensive
Limited colors in wide sizes

The ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23 is a durable, well-rounded running shoe that provides the dependable cushioning and roomy fit that distance runners need. Made for neutral pronation and underpronation, its signature GEL padding in the heel combines with the soft and springy FlyteFoam to absorb shock and cushion your feet no matter how far you’re running. Additionally, the gender-specific TRUSSTIC device provides well-placed support to allow for a balanced stride and smooth transitions.

Designed with comfort and breathability in mind, the shoe’s upper is made of engineered mesh that’s ideal for long runs. The shoe’s OrthoLite X-55 sock liner enhances the overall comfort, providing marathoners with a responsive stride. Available in women’s sizes 5 to 13 and medium or wide widths, the GEL-Nimbus is a versatile shoe that feels great right out of the box.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper | Cushioning: GEL technology, FlyteFoam | Closure: Lace-up}

4.6

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Cabelas.com

Pros

Affordable
Lightweight and breathable
Good cushioning
Roomy toebox

Cons

No narrow sizes
Limited colors

With excellent shock absorption and cushioning, the Saucony Cohesion running shoe can handle the high mileage that marathoners log each week. The VERSARUN cushioning provides reliable impact absorption and reduces pressure so your feet are comforted and supported with every stride.

Saucony running shoes are known for their roomy toebox, so there’s plenty of room for a wide toe splay that will help improve your stability and power transfer. The rubber outsole is grippy and durable, making the shoe a good fit for road running.

The shoe’s light, breathable upper mesh keeps feet comfortable and dry, while a padded collar and tongue enhance comfort and support without feeling constricting. With a lower price tag than many comparable high-performance running shoes, the Cohesion is a high-quality, affordable option for marathoners. They come in men’s sizes 7 to 15 and in medium or wide widths.

Price at time of publication: $75

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic and mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: VERSARUN | Closure: Lace-up}

4.7

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Asics.com

Pros

Stylish
Affordable
Excellent cushioning
Breathable

Cons

Limited choices for wide sizes
Runs narrow

Whether you run outdoors or on a treadmill desk in the office, if you’re looking for a reliable, everyday trainer that’s comfortable and affordable, check out Asics’ GEL-Excite 8 running shoes. Despite the reasonable price, these shoes boast many of Asics’ popular features and technology that are beneficial to marathon runners. The combination of Asics’ rearfoot GEL technology and its Amplifoam midsole cushioning provides excellent responsiveness and plush comfort.

Durable and breathable, the GEL-Excite’s mesh upper is combined with no-sew overlays that increase support without adding any bulkiness. Plus, the injection rubber outsole is sturdy and durable, while the strategically placed flex grooves allow for good flexibility. Available in women’s sizes 5 to 12 and in wide or medium widths, they’re stylish and can be worn post-run for comfortable, all-day casual wear.

Price at time of publication: $75

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: GEL technology, AmpliFoam | Closure: Lace-up}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Holabirdsports.com

Pros

Good support and motion control
Breathable
Lots of width options
Well-cushioned

Cons

Thin mesh not good for cold weather
Limited colors

If you overpronate, or your feet roll inward as you run, the New Balance 940v4 running shoe has the right combination of arch support and stability for you. They feature a high-density medial post and T-BEAM technology for torsional stability and motion control. The cushy ABZORB midsole foam keeps your feet comfortable, no matter how many miles are on the schedule, and they’re well-suited for road running.

Additionally, the breathable mesh keeps your feet from overheating, so they stay dry and blister-free. Available in a variety of widths, from narrow to extra-wide, the 940 can accommodate wide feet as well as custom-made orthotics. The shoes come in women’s sizes 6 to 13 and in a variety of colors.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: ABZORB midsole foam | Closure: Lace-up}

4.9

Amazon

View On Amazon

Pros

Lightweight support and stability
Very breathable
Good cushioning and shock absorption
Stylish

Cons

Narrow toebox in medium width
Expensive

Known for its high-quality, well-made running shoes, Brooks provides an excellent option for overpronators with its Adrenaline GTS 21. The shoe’s support system helps to stabilize your stride, so your feet don’t roll inward as you’re running. Additionally, the Brooks’ BioMoGo DNA cushioning throughout provides protection, good responsiveness, and soft comfort without feeling too cushy.

The Adrenaline GTS is surprisingly lightweight, given its stellar stability and cushioning. The streamlined, engineered mesh upper with 3D Fit Print offers a dependable, supportive fit without a bulky feel. They’re also very breathable, so they’re a good option for long runs in warm weather.

Available in a range of fun and neutral colors, various widths, and women’s sizes 5 to 13, the Adrenaline GTS is a durable, supportive shoe that marathoners can count on to go the distance.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Engineered mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: BioMoGo DNA and DNA Loft | Closure: Lace-up}

4.5

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's

Pros

Excellent cushioning
Durable and protective
Versatile for short or long runs
Breathable and lightweight

Cons

Expensive
Limited color options for wide feet

If you have flat feet or low arches, the Brooks Glycerin is a solid pick when you want extra protection and comfort for the long runs. Known for being one of the most cushioned running shoes, the shoe provides the super-soft, plush comfort and support that those with flat feet need. Despite the luxurious cushioning, the Omega Flex Grooves also deliver good midsole flexibility, so the shoe doesn’t feel bulky. There’s also plenty of room for orthotics, like insoles for flat feet, you need them.

The light, breathable mesh upper provides a snug, comfortable fit, and the silky fabric covering the heel cup helps to avoid blisters. Available in a variety of colors, widths, and in women’s sizes 5 to 13, these versatile, durable shoes are a solid choice for runners, or anyone looking for a comfy and supportive all-day wear casual shoe.

Price at time of publication: $160

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper | Cushioning: DNA Loft foam | Closure: Lace-up}

Zappos

View On Amazon View On Zappos

Pros

Stellar cushioning
Wide toebox
Various widths
Stylish

Cons

Runs small
Limited colors for narrow and extra-wide sizes

Plantar fasciitis, or inflammation of the plantar fascia, is a common complaint among marathoners-in-training, but wearing running shoes with plenty of cushioning can help. With a plush, soft midsole, the New Balance Fresh Foam 1080v11 is a great choice for runners who need excellent comfort and shock absorption for long distances. You’ll notice the cloud-like feel from the time you step into the shoe to the final strides of your long run.

The stretchy knit upper gently hugs the foot, allowing for a precise, supportive fit, while the Ultra Heel technology keeps you from sliding in the shoe. Sleek and stylish, these versatile shoes can easily go right from a long run to a post-workout casual brunch. The 1080 comes in women’s sizes 5 to 13 and in four different width options, including narrow, medium, wide, and extra-wide.

Price at time of publication: $150

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Jacquard upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: Fresh Foam | Closure: Lace-up}

Courtesy: Zappos

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Moosejaw.com

Pros

Well-cushioned
Excellent traction
Stable and protective
Breathable

Cons

Expensive
Medium may be too narrow for some

For exceptional comfort, traction, and protection, you can’t beat the Hoka One One Speedgoat trail runner. With a balanced bed of cushioning, the shoe provides a stable and comfortable base, so you feel confident on the trails. The breathable yet rugged mesh upper with 3D printed overlays increases the midfoot support for a more secure feel.

The wide forefoot adds to the overall comfort and stability, especially when tackling hills. Trail marathon runners will also appreciate the shoe’s traction and durability, thanks to the Vibram MegaGrip high-traction outsole and multi-directional lugs.

Available in men’s sizes 7 to 14 and in medium or wide widths, the Speedgoat costs a bit more than some other trail running shoes, but they're worth the investment for their stellar performance and comfort.

Price at time of publication: $145

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: EVA foam | Closure: Lace-up}

Courtesy: REI

View On Zappos View On Jackrabbit.com View On REI

Pros

Minimalist feel
Soft and flexible
Good for racing
Lightweight and responsive

Cons

No wide or narrow sizes
Run small

While some marathon runners like a shoe that provides a natural running feel, they still need some cushioning to keep them protected on the long runs. The Altra Rivera running shoe provides that minimalist shoe experience, but still offers good impact protection and responsiveness. With a low profile and a soft and flexible AltraEGO foam midsole, it allows for balanced transitions.

An engineered mesh upper is light and breathable and the wide forefoot allows for ample toe splay and natural flexibility. Available in a range of color options and in men’s sizes 7 to 15, they’re ideal for anyone looking for a lightweight, flexible shoe that’s supportive without feeling bulky.

Price at time of publication: $130

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole | Cushioning: AltraEGO foam | Closure: Lace-up}

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Walmart

Pros

Very responsive
Good cushioning
Flexible
Breathable

Cons

Runs small
Feet get cold during frigid weather

The Mizuno Wave Rider is a long-time reliable training partner for marathoners who appreciate its comfort and durability. The shoe’s springy Enerzy foam propels you forward with each stride and feels cushioned and plush on landing.

Mizuno’s Wave Plate technology in the midsole helps to disperse impact and supports smooth transitions from heel to toe, giving you dependable protection and performance mile after mile. As a neutral runner with high arches, I appreciate the Wave Rider’s cushy support and responsiveness for both long- and short-distance training runs. The lightweight feel and excellent breathability enhance the overall comfort and help keep feet cool and blister-free.

A carbon rubber outsole and grippy treads make this a durable, sturdy shoe for both road and non-technical trail running, even in slick conditions. The Wave Rider is available in women’s sizes 6 to 12 and in medium and wide widths.

Price at time of publication: $140

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Engineered mesh or Waveknit upper, carbon rubber outsole | Cushioning: Enerzy | Closure: Lace-up}

4.5

Amazon

View On Amazon View On Zappos View On Dick's

Pros

Superb cushioning
Lightweight
Flexible
Breathable

Cons

Expensive
Some don’t like the thick sole

When it comes to plush cushioning and superb shock absorption, it’s tough to beat the HOKA One One Clifton 8. Like other HOKA styles, the Clifton 8 features HOKA’s signature thick EVA foam, for a comfy, energetic ride. The Clifton is flexible and lightweight, so your feet won’t feel constricted or heavy when you run. Foam padding around the ankle collar and under the tongue adds to the overall comfort and custom-like feel.

Versatile and durable, this shoe works well for fast and short runs, as well as long, easy distances—making it an ideal choice for marathoners. The ample cushioning and rubber outsole also provide good shock absorption and protection from issues such as shin splints and plantar fasciitis, which can sometimes derail marathoners’ training efforts.

The Clifton is available in women’s sizes 5 to 11 and in medium and wide widths.

Price at time of publication: $280

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Mesh upper, rubber outsole, foam insole | Cushioning: EVA foam | Closure: Lace-up}

Verywell Fit / Courtesy of Tamara Staples

Courtesy of Dick's Sporting Goods

View On Dick's View On Jackrabbit.com View On Nike.com

Pros

Carbon-plated
Lightweight cushioning
Great for marathon racing
Roomy fit

Cons

Expensive
Limited color choices

A leader in the development of carbon-plated “super shoes,” Nike definitely has a winner with its latest version of the Vaporfly Next%. The elite technology of a full-length carbon fiber plate creates a responsive feel that propels you forward and quickens your transitions.

Compared to its predecessor, this version is more stable and has a wider upper, so your toes have more room to move around. Lightweight and breathable, they also feature Nike ZoomX foam for exceptional comfort and energy return. Flexibility grooves on the rubber outsole provide stellar traction for all types of weather conditions.

Available in women’s sizes 5 to 12, the Vaporfly Next% is ideal for anyone looking to put an extra spring in their step for marathon racing and speedwork. They’re more expensive than some high-performance running shoes but worth every penny according to fans.

Price at time of publication: $250

^{Key Specs:
Materials: Synthetic upper, rubber outsole, foam insole | Cushioning: Nike ZoomX foam | Closure: Lace-up}

Final Verdict

With the features and performance you want in a marathon running shoe, the Brooks Ghost 14 (view at Zappos) earns our top pick for men looking for a high-quality, dependable shoe.

For women, the ASICS GEL-Nimbus 23 (view at Amazon) offers the perfect combination of support and cushioning that runners need in a dependable, well-rounded shoe for marathon running.

Both shoes keep runners comfortable and supported for long-distance runs, but also serve them well for shorter recovery or tempo runs.

What to Look for in Marathon Running Shoes

Foot Type and Gait

Runners should consider their arch type and running gait when choosing a shoe. “There are neutral shoes, stability shoes, and motion control shoes for varied levels of pronation,” says Ronto. He explains that knowing what you need is a good place to start.

“Most running stores can help analyze your running gait while on a treadmill,” says Melissa Prestipino, PT, DPT, a physical therapist in Sparta, NJ who treats runners and triathletes. “You can also consult a running coach or a physical therapist who specializes in runner’s gait.”

Comfort

Comfort is a matter of personal preference, but it’s important to know what you prefer in a running shoe. Some runners like minimal cushioning while others prefer a more responsive, springy feel.

“If the shoe meets your initial criteria, such as your running type and pronation, then it mostly comes down to comfort,” says Ronto. “You'll run more if your shoes are comfortable than if they are not.”

Weight

Lightweight shoes are good for racing and speed workouts, while some runners prefer heavier, more cushioned ones for long runs. You may decide you want two pairs of running shoes for marathon training, depending on the type of run you’re doing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you break in shoes before a marathon?

“Today’s running shoes should feel great right out of the box,” says Rob Conenello, DPM, FACFAS, FAAPSM, a New York-based sports podiatrist. “That being said, I would suggest testing shoes out on several long runs before committing to the race day shoe.”
There's a common misconception that all shoes require a break-in period, but according to Dr. Conenello, if your running shoes don't feel good the first time you put them on, you should find a different pair.
When should you replace running shoes?

“Most running shoes are designed to last 300 to 400 miles,” says Brent Pease, head coach of runners and triathletes for Dynamo Multisport. “There are some that will be a little less and some that can last up to 500 miles.”
It’s important to regularly replace your running shoes to prevent overuse injuries that can occur from running in shoes that have lost their cushioning and support. Be sure to check your shoes for wear and tear.
“Inspect the outsole to see if the tread has worn away and the midsole is being exposed, and look for any significant, uneven wearing that’s making the shoes unstable,” says Ronto. He explains that excessive creasing in the midsole is also a sign that the shoe is losing its original cushioning and response.
How do you clean marathon shoes?

You can clean marathon shoes at home during a mixture of water and your favorite laundry detergent. Add a few drops of the detergent into a small bowl of water and dip a toothbrush or other small brush into it. Clean your shoes using round strokes. Allow your shoes to air dry.
You can use the smallest attachment from your vacuum cleaner to remove any extra rocks or road debris that found their way to the inside of the shoe.
What types of shoes do Olympic marathon runners wear?

Marathon shoes for Olympians definitely take a beating because Olympic marathoners run hard and put in high mileage each week, as well as endure tough conditions and rough surfaces. But the type of shoes each Olympian chooses is typically based on personal preference.
Where they do most of their mileage is a big factor in selecting the right running shoe. For instance, if they primarily train on trails, they'll use a shoe with more traction and stability than shoes that are designed for road running. During races, however, they would use a shoe for road running.
Some Olympic runners are sponsored by running apparel and shoe organizations, and they will exclusively wear that brand, per their contracts. Other Olympic runners might create their own running shoe to wear and sell to pay for training costs.
How do you make sure your marathon shoes fit?

Marathon runners should wear running shoes that are a half-size to a full size bigger than their regular shoe size. Having some extra room in the toebox will help prevent foot issues such as blisters and bunions that can happen when feet swell during long runs.

Why Trust Verywell Fit?

Certified running coach and health and fitness writer Christine Luff has spent years researching, testing, and recommending fitness and athletic products and knows that the right gear can tremendously improve performance