These are the five road running and racing shoes that we think are well worth the hype
Finding the perfect running shoes for your everyday cardio is essential. You can’t just buy the first pair of shoes you see for style or popularity alone because you have factors like ankle collars, outsoles, cushioning, and weight to consider before purchasing. Finding the perfect pair of shoes is even more essential when you plan on running marathons and races this year. If you’re on the lookout for a new pair of running shoes, here’s a list of some of the best ones released in the past year that are definitely worth their price tags.
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Nike Alphafly 2
The Alphafly 2 Men’s Road Racing Shoes are the standouts in Nike’s exclusive Ekiden collection. The Alphafly 2 are carefully crafted for road racing, making these extremely lightweight, comfortable, and responsive to every movement. These are Nike’s bounciest running shoes yet as there is ZoomX foam right under the Zoom Air cushioning, also resulting in an improved transition from heel to forefoot.
Hoka Clifton 8
The men’s Clifton 8 are the latest additions to Hoka’s famed Clifton franchise, the newest features being a more responsive midsole and breathable mesh upper. The Clifton 8 shoes are specifically made for everyday runs and walking with its neutral stability and balanced cushion. Other noteworthy details are that these are vegan, partially made from recycled materials, and recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association for promoting foot health.
Saucony Endorphin Pro 3
Aside from the fact that these are also vegan and partially made from recycled materials, the women’s Endorphin Pro 3 from Saucony is recommendable for its S-curve carbon-fiber plate and a thick stack of PWRRUNPB foam cushioning. These two features alone make these shoes the perfect supplement to a springy underfoot. All in all, these shoes are fast, breathable, comfortable, and suitable for gripping the road thanks to its XT-900 outsole.
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Of the athletes that won in the 2021 World Major Marathon events, 60% of these wins were by those wearing the Adizero Adios Pro 2. Having accomplished this, adidas goes even further with the Adizero Adios Pro 3, which is significantly lighter, comfier, and faster than its predecessors. These long-distance road racing shoes are premium-made and carefully crafted to endure, with its Lightstrike Pro cushioning, Continental™ Rubber outsole, and ENERGYRODS 2.0.
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ASICS SUPERBLAST
The ASICS SUPERBLAST easily outpaces its predecessors. Made with maximum cushioning using a combination of FF BLAST™ PLUS and FF BLAST™ TURBO, these unisex shoes are perfect for light and bouncy running experiences from long runs to tempo runs on the road. Notably, its heel stabilizers provide balance, its outsole rubber improves durability, and its Jacquard woven upper material improves airflow.
