The 5 Best Running Shoes for 4+ Hour Marathons
Here we are recommending 5 different race shoes for 4+ hour marathon runners. Whether you are looking for a non-plated shoe that uses race-caliber foam like the ASICS Megablast, or a firm and stable carbon-plated racer like the Puma Deviate Nitro 4, or a comfort-oriented carbon-plated shoe that is great for long runs and racing like the New Balance SC Elite v5, we have you covered.
For 4+ hour marathons we’re prioritizing stability, cushion, and efficiency over all-out aggression, because comfort late beats speed early every time. These five deliver consistent protection, forgiving rides, and enough pop to keep you moving when the wheels want to fall off.
1. ASICS Megablast
Foam: FF Turbo2 (ATPU)
Stack: 45mm heel, 8mm drop
Weight: 8.1 oz. / 221 grams
Fit: True to Size
Characteristics: Bouncy, Cushioned, Versatile
The Megablast answers all the demands of a 4+ hour marathon effort, combining the stability and comfort of a max cushion shoe with the bouncy, speed assistive feel of a carbon plated racer. Check out this aritcle for a direct comparison of the Megablast to the Superblast 2.
ASICS Megablast
2. Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 4
Foam: Nitrofoam Elite (ATPU)
Stack: 40mm heel, 8mm drop
Weight: 6.0 oz. / 170 grams
Fit: True to Size
Characteristics: Bouncy, Robust, Fast
The Deviate Nitro Elite 4 works for a wide range of runners while still delivering top-tier speed and performance. Bouncy, robust, stable and highly-responsive, this is the best fast racer that still feels approachable. Puma managed to deliver on a perfect update to the Deviate Nitro Elite 3, which was a Hobby Jogger favorite for its stability, durability, and true race-caliber performance.
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 4
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3. New Balance SC Elite v5
Foam: Fuelcell (PEBA)
Stack: 40mm heel, 8mm drop
Weight: 7.3 oz. / 207 grams
Fit: True to Size
Characteristics: Comfortable, Bouncy, Versatile
The SC Elite v5 is a bouncy, soft, and accessible marathon racer that works well for a wide range of paces and foot strikes. While there are more stable options on this list, the soft, comfortable midsole of the SC Elite v5 holds up incredibly well to long efforts.
New Balance SC Elite v5
4. ASICS Suberblast 2
Foam: FF Turbo+
Stack: 46mm heel, 8mm drop
Weight: 8.8 oz. / 250 grams
Fit: True to Size
Characteristics: Firm, Cushioned, Stable
The Superblast is the original non-plated race foam super trainer, offering a firm, stable, and supportive ride for long time on feet. Plus, since the Superblast 2 takes significant mileage break-in, it makes for a great hybrid racing/training companion for your next marathon block.
Asics Superblast 2
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4. Hoka Rocket X3
Foam: PEBA
Stack: 42mm heel, 7mm drop
Weight: 8.0 oz. / 227 grams
Fit: True to Size
Characteristics: Firm, Stiff, Stable
The Rocket X3 is largely unremarkable in relation to the rest of the race shoe market, but that’s a good thing for the right buyer. This is the perfect option if you want a protective, stable, no-nonsense carbon-plated workhorse that gets out of the way and disappears on-foot.
Hoka Rocket X 3
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