If you're here, you probably already know that running shoes can potentially make or break your race – helping you fly across the finish line or leaving you grimacing through every step (toenails included).
In 2025, runners are spoilt for choice. With constant updates in technology, fresh colours, and styles, picking the perfect race day shoe can feel almost as challenging as the race itself.
That's where we come in. Whether it's your first fun run or your tenth marathon, choosing the right race day running shoes is essential. We've rounded up our top picks – from lightning-fast carbon-plated speed machines to trusty non-carbon options that still deliver on comfort and performance. No matter your pace, distance, or budget, there's a pair here ready to go the distance with you.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
Best Carbon Plate Shoe
Key Features:
- Double layered Lightstrike Pro midsole ensures, smooth energy returning cushioning
- Carbon Infused ENERGYRODS 2.0 enhance ride efficiency
- Rocker point provides improved running efficiency, preserving runners energy
- Heel to toe drop: 6 mm (heel 33 mm, forefoot 39 mm)
- Weight: 200g (Men's US 9.5)
Asics Superblast 2
Best Non-Carbon Plate Shoe
Key Features:
- Light and airy engineered mesh upper helps feet stay cool and comfortable on long runs
- Midsole combines FF BLAST PLUS ECO and FF TURBO PLUS performance foams
- AHARPLUS heel plug rubber improves durability
- Heel to toe drop: 45mm-37mm (8mm)
- Weight: 249g (Men's US 9)
Nike Air Zoom Alphafly Next 3
Best Marathon Shoe
Key Features:
- Two forefoot Air Zoom units combine with ZoomX foam
- A full-length carbon fibre plate
- Fully connected ZoomX foam creates an ultralight and cushioned feel
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
- Weight: 218g (Men's US 10)
Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Best Half Marathon Shoe
Key Features:
- Carbon fibre plate helps foam compress and expand faster for a more energetic ride
- Midsole fuses PWRRUN HG and PWRRUN PB foams
- Speedroll technology helps roll effortlessly through each stride
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm
- Weight: 189g (Women's US 8)
Nike Vaporfly 4
Best Short Distance Shoe (5K–10K)
Key Features:
- Full-length carbon fibre Flyplate for superior propulsion
- Heel-to-toe ZoomX foam unlocks even more energy return
- Midsole sculpting helps reduce weight and increase stability
- Heel-to-toe drop: 6 mm
- Weight: 152g (Women’s US 8)
Brooks Hyperion Max 3
Best Stability Shoe
Key Features:
- DNA GOLD PEBA cushioning with DNA Flash v2 for cushioning and speed
- SpeedVault plate in midsole for propulsion
- Heel-to-toe drop: 6mm (46mm heel, 40mm forefoot)
- Weight: 281g (Men’s US 9)
New Balance SC Elite V5
Best Shoe for Wide Feet
Key Features:
- 100% PEBA FuelCell midsole for ultra-responsive energy return
- Stiffer carbon fibre plate for propulsion
- Refined rocker geometry for smooth transitions
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm (40mm heel, 32mm forefoot)
- Weight: 214g (Men’s)/165g (Women’s)
Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3
Best Value Race Shoe
Key Features:
- Carbon fibre PWRPLATE for stable power transfer
- NITROFOAM™ Elite cushioning for responsiveness
- PUMAGRIP outsole provides traction for all conditions
- Heel-to-toe drop: 8mm (40mm heel, 32mm forefoot)
- Weight: 194g (Men’s US 9)
Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo
Best Lightweight Shoe for Speed
Key Features:
- Engineered woven MOTION WRAP™ 3.0 upper for lightweight locked fit
- FF LEAP™ midsole for bouncy, light responsiveness
- FF TURBO™ PLUS cushioning for advanced energy return
- Carbon plate provides propulsion and stability
- Heel-to-toe drop: 5mm
- Weight: 170g (Men's US 9)
Ready to shop?
Check out our entire range of running shoes for men and women online or head in-store to speak to one of our friendly rebel staff members to find the right fit for you.