The Atreyu Race Model is the brand’s first crack at a carbon-plated, budget-friendly marathon racer. Atreyu is a small startup—a true one-man operation—based out of Austin, Texas. Priced at $120 MSRP, the Race Model competes with... well, no one really. All jokes aside, the Race Model features a dense supercritical TPE midsole that offers some nice bounce. It was tested over a 6-mile run with six 400-meter reps, and it fit the bill perfectly for that kind of workout. The foam has the density and narrow fit of something like the Adidas Takumi Sen line, paired with the smooth ride of a Hoka Mach 6. Unlike most marathon racers on the market, the Atreyu Race Model features a less rigid carbon fiber plate, a more standard (non-Peba) midsole, and less protection over long miles. Still, it’s a viable option for anyone looking for an affordable, skate-culture-inspired aesthetic in their running shoe—or who just wants to support a small business. While we haven’t tested it over a 20+ mile long run yet, it feels best suited for faster, repeat-style reps.

Category

Race Day

Release Date

September 2023

Plated?

Yes

Type of Plate

Full carbon plate

Foam

Unbranded

Foam Compound

Supercritical TPE

Ride

Smooth, Bouncy, Firm

Heel Stack (mm)

35.0

Forefoot Stack (mm)

29.0

Drop (mm)

6

Weight (mens size 9)

8.2

Support

Neutral

Fit

Snug