Marathon training in 2025 is more dynamic than ever—with innovations in cushioning, support, and design driving runners to rethink what they want from their shoes. Whether you’re aiming for your first 26.2 or trying to PR, finding the perfect pair of running shoes can make the difference between crossing the finish line strong or dealing with pain and fatigue. At Giving Assistant, we know how tricky (and expensive) shoe shopping can be, so we’ve put together this deep-dive guide on the five best running shoes for marathon training—covering their performance, technology, and practical tips for maximizing savings on your next purchase.
Why the Right Marathon Shoe Matters
Training for 26.2 miles puts your body and gear to the test. A great marathon shoe isn’t just about speed; you need a balance of comfort, durability, support, and responsiveness so your feet stay happy through the highest mileage weeks, tough workouts, and long race days. Here’s how we select our top picks:
- Long-run comfort—plenty of cushion that doesn’t bottom out
- Secure fit—hugs the foot but won’t cause hot spots or blisters
- Durable outsole—handles hundreds of miles on road or track
- Lightweight, responsive ride—for switching between easy pace and race-day speed
1. Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 continues to be a top marathon weapon for runners who want max speed and energy return. Thanks to its PWRRUN HG foam and carbon fiber plate combo, this shoe is engineered to shave seconds off each mile while still sparing your joints from pounding over 26.2.
- Best for: Race day, tempo efforts, and anyone seeking lightweight propulsion
- Key Features:
- PWRRUN HG foam for supreme energy and bounce
- Carbon fiber plate for a smooth, snappy toe-off
- Redesigned recycled upper locks the foot in without pressure or hot spots
- Stack Height: 39.5mm heel / 35.5mm forefoot
- Weight: 7.2 oz (men), 6.7 oz (women)
- Why We Love It: Responsive, ideal for experienced runners looking to break new records, and durable enough for frequent fast training runs.
2. Brooks Glycerin Max
The Brooks Glycerin Max brings luxury comfort to your toughest long runs. By increasing the midsole stack and introducing plush DNA Loft v3 foam, this shoe invites you to log your highest mileage weeks pain-free.
- Best for: Everyday training, recovery days, distance runners who crave cushion
- Key Features:
- Nitrogen-infused dual-density midsole for soft landings without bottoming out
- Heel Stack Height: 42.25mm—provides cloud-like protection on all surfaces
- 6mm drop for a well-balanced ride
- 360° wraparound upper prevents slippage or rubbing on big mileage days
- Weight: 10.5 oz (men), 9.5 oz (women)
- Why We Love It: Outstanding for anyone building base or tackling higher weekly volumes. It’s the shoe we’d recommend to anyone worried about sore legs—or wanting to protect their feet after an injury.
3. Adidas Adizero Pro 4
If your focus is all-out speed for race day, the Adidas Adizero Pro 4 won’t disappoint. Its new Lightstrike Pro 2.0 foam and EnergyRods provide a propulsive push-off, plus the grip and stability to keep you confident—rain or shine.
- Best for: Racing, interval workouts, tempo runs, wet road conditions
- Key Features:
- Reengineered Lightstrike Pro foam for a bouncy, quick stride
- EnergyRods 2.0 encourage a natural, snappy toe-off
- Optimized rubber outsole for unbeatable grip in damp conditions
- Weight: Among the lightest in its category—perfect for mid-race surges
- Why We Love It: Elite athletes and PR-hunters alike love the race-day feel, and even after long training blocks, the foam remains responsive and lively.
4. New Balance More v5
The New Balance More v5 sets itself apart with a wide, stable platform and copious amounts of plush FuelCell cushioning. If you’re injury-prone or have issues with rolling your ankles, this shoe is for you.
- Best for: Long runs, recovery jogs, runners seeking maximum stability
- Key Features:
- Extra-wide landing zone for safe, stable strides (ideal for overpronators or heavy-footed runners)
- FuelCell midsole keeps bounce and comfort even after 500+ miles
- Upper designed for breathable, irritation-free wear
- Why We Love It: It’s a favorite for easy days post-tempo or anyone prone to joint pain. Think of this shoe as your marathon training security blanket.
5. Hoka Mach X2
The Hoka Mach X2 is a do-everything workhorse that’s equally at home on long slow runs or interval days. Its dual-foam construction combines soft top-layer comfort with a lively bottom layer for snappier turnover.
- Best for: Versatile use—long runs, tempo days, even the marathon itself for mid-pack runners
- Key Features:
- Profly+ and Pebax foam blend creates dynamic cushioning without loss of speed
- Sculpted 5mm rocker geometry for smooth transitions through every stride
- Reinforced eyelets: allows tinkering with lacing for a custom fit
- Newly lighter update still provides lavish underfoot comfort
- Why We Love It: Whether you’re running easy, racing, or doing workouts, this shoe handles it all. That’s valuable if you don’t want to swap between multiple models.
How to Choose the Right Marathon Shoe
No two runners are alike, so here’s how to dial in your marathon shoe for 2025:
- Know your arch and pronation type—Low arches? Seek out stability models like the New Balance More v5. Neutral runners have more options across the board.
- Rotate your shoes—Use a max-cushion model (like Brooks Glycerin Max) for high-mileage days and a faster, lighter shoe (like Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 or Adidas Adizero Pro 4) for workouts/races. This allows muscles to adapt and reduces injury risk.
- Check stack heights and heel-to-toe drops—Racers tend to go lower-drop/higher-stack for race day, but your training shoe can be plusher with a greater drop for extra protection.
- Always test at least 2-3 models—Tiny differences in fit or cushioning can make a huge impact at mile 20!
Where to Buy & Save on the Best Marathon Shoes (and Gear!)
If you’re looking to save money on this year’s best marathon running shoes, remember to check out the latest deals and promo codes on Giving Assistant. We work hard to aggregate the newest discounts from thousands of retailers—so smart shoppers can put their cash towards more training fuel, not just more gear.
Want to stretch your dollar even further? We also feature supplement deals to support your nutrition and recovery, plus savings on training apparel and more.
Pro Tips for Getting More from Your Marathon Shoes
- Log your mileage—Most marathon shoes wear out around 300-500 miles. Keep track and retire them before breakdown leads to injury.
- Keep your feet happy—Always try on with your favorite socks and consider using insoles for extra arch support if needed.
- Break in gradually—Never race in brand new shoes! Ease into new pairs over 2-3 weeks, especially with carbon-plated/ultra-cushioned options.
- Watch for sales—Last season’s models can be nearly identical in performance and often deeply discounted!
Conclusion
Training for a marathon is a huge commitment—your shoes should work just as hard as you do. Choosing from the five best marathon running shoes of 2025 means fewer aches and more confidence when you line up on race day. As always, savvy runners never pay full price! Discover fresh deals on top brands and gear with Giving Assistant—your ultimate resource for online savings, every step of the way. Here’s to happy miles and fast finishes!