WHAT SHOES ARE BEST FOR LONG-DISTANCE RUNNING?

Whether you’re just starting to log serious miles for your first race or you’re lacing up for your seventh marathon, you demand a lot of your running shoes. Your mileage, run type, and run surface may fluctuate from week to week—every run has a purpose and so does each of our running shoes. We’ll help you pick just the right pair (or pairs), based on your preferred fit, the types of runs you do, and your running surface.

Every runner has a running shoe fit and feel they prefer. Some runners go up half a size to account for foot swelling during longer runs. Other runners prefer a snug, sock-like fit. Which is right for you? The right fit is whatever feels best. And the only way to know for sure is to get out there and put some miles in.

It’s common for runners to have multiple pairs of shoes for different types of runs. The majority of your runs will use training shoes—they’re typically slightly heavier with more cushion to absorb impact and help make all those miles easier on your legs.

Racing shoes are focused on performance and speed—think maximum energy return, lightweight uppers, and propulsion in every step. Remember to break in your race day shoes with a few fast runs to make sure the fit and feel is just right.

As you work toward a race or goal, you’ll take on different types of training runs—longer and slower, along with shorter and faster—and potentially on different surfaces. We’ve got you covered no matter how far, how fast, or what surface you run on.

Easy long runs are a must for any runner and any training regime. A nice easy (or medium effort) long run helps build strength and improve aerobic base, and they can help you recover from a hard run. These shoes are made for smooth and easy running.

• Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 2: This pair helps your feet feel serene as the miles pile up. It has a new breathable Flyknit upper with Flywire technology for support, and a generous helping of React foam designed to absorb lots of impact to help keep you moving comfortably mile after mile (after mile).
• Nike ZoomX Invincible Run: You can’t reach your goals if you’re not out there running. This one will help you grab serious miles with our responsive and light ZoomX foam and a full-length waffle outsole for traction. We also added a more stable upper to keep your feet secure for the long haul.
• Nike React Miler 2: This pair is all about stability and comfort—Nike React cushioning gives you a blissful and responsive ride. The simplified upper reduces weight and offers a secure fit.

• Nike Wildhorse 7: React cushioning covered by a full rubber outsole helps reduce the impact of roots and rocks. The upper has enhanced ventilation and a collar designed to keep debris on the trail and not in your shoe.
• Nike Pegasus Trail 3: A mountain-bike-inspired React outsole means a smooth and stable ride on the trails. The newly designed upper provides the classic Pegasus look with a secure, breathable ride for your miles.

Mixing speed runs—like fartleks, tempos, or repeats—in your training requires the right shoes. Speed work improves your cardiovascular health and helps you sustain a faster pace longer to get you ready for race day—maybe even a personal record.

• Nike Air Zoom Tempo NEXT%: From the ZoomX foam and dual Zoom Air pods in the forefoot to the React heel, get ready for one of the most responsive and fast rides you’ve ever had. We’ve added high-abrasion rubber in key outsole areas for durability, so you can reach for them more often.
• Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38: A workhorse with wings. The reconstructed upper features a softer layered mesh, expanded toe box, and improved midfoot lockdown that combines with springy React foam and Zoom Air units in the forefoot for durable performance.
• Nike Zoom Fly 4: Faster training runs lead to better race times. A React midsole and carbon fiber plate supply a durable and fast ride to hit those training goals. And the upper combines a comfortable sock-like fit and stable lockdown across the midfoot for chasing those times down.

• Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7: Lighter than the Wildhorse, the Kiger has a great bounce to it. React foam and a forefoot Air Zoom unit are an ideal balance of speed and comfort. Multi-directional lugs improve stability even on technical terrain.

Whether you’re lacing up to finish your first marathon or going for a personal record, all of your training comes down to race day. The right shoes can help you push through the last mile. It’s key to have race day shoes under your feet that you’ve broken in and feel confident in.

• Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2: Keep cool while you chase down a new PB. A breathable perforated mesh upper and expanded toe box keep you comfortable for your next road race. Of course, the record-setting combination of ZoomX foam and a full-length carbon plate keep each stride efficient.
• Nike Air Zoom Alphafly NEXT%: A healthy portion of ZoomX foam and two Zoom Air pods provide absurd energy return and help keep your legs fresher longer. Our AtomKnit upper reduces weight, increases breathability, and limits water absorption.