The 10 Best Sneakers for Long Distance Running

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1.

These sneakers are made for some major mileage.

If you're looking for a new pair of sneakers to add to the rotation, here are the best models suited for long distance runs. Perfect for the runner looking for lightweight construction that is confident in their form from start to finish. For distance ranging from full-fledged marathon to an explosive 10k, the following sneakers have less of a midsole and a super lightweight construction that results in a quicker response from the ground, a dream for any runner aiming for a PR.

The sacrifice made by selecting one of these lightweight frames is less support and the fact that these are nowhere as durable as the beefier models

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2.

No. 10 - Mizuno Wave Precision 13

Ideal for: Runners looking for a new all-around kick to add to their weekly rotation.

Weight: 9.5 oz

The Wave Precision 13 is a steady neutral shoe with a light upper texture to guarantee that your feet will not soak up your socks. This sneaker is super comfortable, works with jeans, and is a great kick for post-run activities as well. The Mizuno Wave technology cradles your feet adequately without becoming a clunker on longer routes.

$115

3.

No. 9 - Brooks Green Silence

Ideal For: The environmentally conscious runner with a penchant for lightweight creepers.

Weight: 7.2 oz

"Reduce your carbon footprint. Move forward. Run Happy." Brooks Running Green Silence has something of a cult following behind it. Using "BioMoGo", the midsole uses 75% of recycled material with a recycled box for a lighter carbon footprint. The rave reviews from this shoe aren't about that though, the heel-to-toe delivery is a super smooth ride which is enough to make any runner forget about their feet on the road.

$85

4.

No. 8 - New Balance 1600

Ideal For: Runners looking for a great racing shoe for Half Marathon distances.

Weight: 5.6 oz

This ultra-lightweight shoe promises to tear up the concrete once you lace up. The 1600 is perfect for a half and full marathon distances and a great training shoe to give your feet a break every once and a while. If you are a runner that seeks to run a PR in a marathon via lighter shoes, this is your pair.

$110

5.

No. 7 - Mizuno Wave Ronin 4

Ideal For: Runners looking for a flexible sole.

Weight7.2 oz

Behind the more delicate Wave Universe, the Wave Ronin is a very competent marathon pair and has some of the comfort that was abundant on the Precision 13, but it has a much higher level of flexibility. There is still the vintage AP+ cushioning that is featured in most Mizuno shoes, a trusted technology. However, this unique running kick will not double as a great walking shoe.

$105

6.

No. 6 - Nike Lunar Racer

Ideal For: Athletes that don't have the time or patience to break in a new pair of kicks.

Weight: 5.5 oz

Until the Nike Flyknit Racer stormed onto the scene, the Lunar Racer was hands-down the Marathon vessel of choice for Nike athletes. Why not? It's unbelievably light at 5.5 ounces, there is ample amounts of cushion throughout the sole and heel, it looks amazing and it's pretty much broken in as soon as you lay eyes on it.

$90

7.

No. 5 - adidas adizero Feather 2

Ideal For: Those looking to avoid squished toes.

Weight: 7.3 oz

When Kenya's Geoffrey Mutai ran the fastest Marathon under any conditions at the 2011 Boston Marathon in 2:03:02, it wasn't recognized as a World Record and Mutai vowed to roar later in the year in the ING NYC Marathon of 2011, he won (surprised?) with a course record time of 2:05:05, solidifying him as one of the world's best racers. He wore the adizero Feather 2 when he ran ING. What to expect when you slip on the Feather 2? You got it, it's really light. Watch out, if you are not accustomed to a large toe box, understand that's what you'll get with the Feather 2. If you like a little extra room up front, be prepared to glide with power. Most racing shoes simply absorb high, intense levels of impact while your form remains the same, but the Feather 2 has a way of daring you to speed up, and if you choose to do so, you'll feel like you're running on a magic carpet. Didn't like the carpet analogy? We can settle for Magic Feather 2.

$85

8.

No. 4 - Zoot Ultra Kalani 2

Ideal For: Triathletes

Weight: 10.3 oz

Zoot is a highly respected brand amongst the Triathlon community, runners won't come across as many Zoot running products but those that are around will likely rave about it's compression apparel line. This shoe has unique characteristics unlike most conventional running shoes (besides the sleek style), starting with the speed laces that are easy to tighten yet secure to not obstruct a runner. Unlike most of these speed shoes, some of which are pretty much broken in AP (after purchase), the Kalani 2 operates best after about approximately 30 to 50 miles for the base of the sole to break in properly. Once broken in, the shoe amazingly quick despite clocking in as the heaviest within the list. With cushioned support on the heel, decent traction for slippery terrains, this shoe could easily be crowned as a speedster's premier pair for a Marathon in a tropic, hilly climate despite not being identified as a Marathon racer.

$140

9.

No. 3 - Saucony Kinvara 3

Ideal For: Avoiding slippery situations this winter

Weight: 7.3 oz

Widely hailed as a great entry level running shoe, the Kinvara 2 was central to all qualities runners new and experienced appreciate- speed, comfort, easy mobility, great grip and durability. The sequel to the Kinvara 2 lives up to it's seemingly endless hype by performing equally as prudent, it's a tad lighter (particularly on top), there are way more colors (your eyes will appreciate the therapy, check out the Kinvara 3 colors!), the grip is still strong. If there is one issue, the Kinvara 3 is manufactured a little more narrow around the midfoot, this is a little bit of a disappointment for those that were already accustomed to the fit of the Kinvara 2. Luckily, there are other width sizes that take this issue into account.

Find it for $100.

10.

No. 2 - Asics Gel Hyper Speed 5

Ideal For: Those satisfying bursts of speed mid-run.

Weight: 7 oz

Ryan Hall, Mr. American Marathon Record Holder at 2:04:58 has not been seen running a marathon with anything but the Hyper Speed series. In a recent video, Mr. Hall stated that he hasn't worn anything else since 2005. That's a serious commitment. While Ryan likely will be seen wearing other shoes outside the marathon distance, we wouldn't be surprised to see him in them for casual wear as well. The winning combination of speed and comfort makes the Hyper Speed 5 a winner, despite a lower durability in the long run.

$80

11.

No. 1 - adidas adizero Adios 2

Ideal For: Any runner looking for the ultimate marathon sneaker.

Weight: 7.2 ounces

Just about every other runner that breaks the tape at any major marathon seems to roll through with the Adios. FIVE sub 2:04 marathon finish times have been blasted with this shoe. Patrick Makau broke the World Record for Fastest Marathon, kicking his way to an earth-shattering 2:03:38 with the Adios 2. It didn't hurt that Makau was running that race to establish himself as Kenya's top runner, done and done.

It should come as a relief that you don't have to run a 2:03 Marathon or train to be "Kenya's Fastest" to enjoy the racing experience the Adios 2 will unravel for you. The Continental rubber pieces under the shoe ensure that you won't slip and will have maximum grip for each lunge. This shoe is meant for high quality Marathon racing and performs best when you're trying to push the tempo, particularly on the forefoot strike. With a snug heel cap to ensure a secure race, these should be the kicks for your next big race.

$115