Best Long Distance Running Shoes for a Powerful Performance

Best Long Distance Running Shoes for a Powerful Performance 3

Recently, a study at Oregon State University found out that cushioned running shoes cause a higher impact on the foot striking on the ground. Since the cushion doesn’t cause the feet to function as it should (like a spring), the feet absorb the shock, which then causes injury to the tissues and muscles.

This makes cushioned running shoes not ideal for running long distances. So, what makes up the best long distance running shoes? Let’s find out by looking at three of the best running shoes on the market today.

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Best Long Distance Running ShoesComparison Chart

adidas Men's Alphabounce em m Running Shoe, Black/White/Utility Black, 12.5 Medium US
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 18 (7 EE US)
ALTRA Mens TIMP Trail, Color: Gray, Size: 10
adidas Men's Alphabounce em m Running Shoe, Black/White/Utility Black, 12.5 Medium US
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 18 (7 EE US)
ALTRA Mens TIMP Trail, Color: Gray, Size: 10
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adidas Men's Alphabounce em m Running Shoe, Black/White/Utility Black, 12.5 Medium US
adidas Men's Alphabounce em m Running Shoe, Black/White/Utility Black, 12.5 Medium US
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Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 18 (7 EE US)
Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 18 (7 EE US)
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ALTRA Mens TIMP Trail, Color: Gray, Size: 10
ALTRA Mens TIMP Trail, Color: Gray, Size: 10
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Best Long Distance Running Shoes Reviews

The cushion resides at the midsole of the shoe. In the past, it was usually made of polyurethane (PU) or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA). Today, many shoe companies use proprietary materials to create better cushioning.

Some new running shoes are more responsive and shock-absorbent than others while some are more breathable. With this in mind, let’s review three ideal running shoes for long-distance running.

1. Adidas AlphaBounce Em M Running Shoes

adidas Men's Alphabounce em m Running Shoe, Black/White/Utility Black, 12.5 Medium US

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Adidas is a trusted brand all over the world. It comes in a wide variety of designs, each of which suits a particular running style and needs. Available in different colors, the Adidas AlphaBounce Em M Running Shoes have more than just looks to offer.

Features

The Adidas AlphaBounce Em M Running Shoes are made of imported synthetic and textile materials engineered together to create high-quality performance and comfort.

  • The Upper

The mesh upper is made with a lightweight second skin that allows air circulation. It does provide not only the right fit but also a breathable feel. It gives the shoes a sock-like fit.

  • The Midsole

The midsole of Adidas AlphaBounce Em M Running Shoes has a drop of 10mm. It comes with a sufficient cushioning to support long-distance running and comfort.  It gives that kind of pleasure that supports extreme moves too.

  • The Heel

The heel portion is made with molded EVA material that is tough and crack-resistant. On the exterior is a rubber outsole for maximum grip. It prevents accidental slips and slides over different kinds of pavements.

  • Size and Weight

Weighing 11 ounces for the size nine, the Adidas AlphaBounce Em M Running Shoes is lightweight and intended for running longer distances. No wonder it is one of the best-selling shoes for men.

PROS

  • checkDifferent colors to choose from
  • checkFits as expected
  • checkComfortably bouncy
  • checkDurable
  • checkWell-engineered and tested
  • checkSupports extreme action
  • checkResists cracks and rips

CONS

  • Weak grip

2. Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 18

Brooks Men's Adrenaline GTS 18 (7 EE US)

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An upgrade of the former Adrenaline GTS17, the Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 17 is made with additional features that improve support, comfort, and durability. It is available in many colors and sizes, which include half sizes.

Features

The Brooks Men’s Adrenaline GTS 18 is made of imported human-made mesh material that provides the perfect balance of stability and cushioning. This level of support addresses the issue of over-pronation and for runners with low arches.

  • Mid-foot Saddle

The adjustable, asymmetrical mid-foot saddle comes with a lace-up closure to ensure a modifiable, secure fit. The plush tongue and collar add flexibility to fit and comfort.

  • The Upper

The upper materials are breathable to allow the air through. It gives the feet a fresh sensation and helps prevent sweating and unwanted smell. This feature is essential especially for long-distance running to maintain hygiene and enables you to focus on performance.

  • The Midsole

One of the unique features of the Adrenaline GTS 18 is the patented Progressive Diagonal Rollbar, a tri-density midsole that supports smooth feet transitions and pronation control.

  • The Insole and Outsole

The insole is a detachable molded foam that adds a light cushioning. On the other hand, the Flextra rubber outsole provides different degrees of support based on gender and weight. The Deeper V-groove and the segmental Crash Pad designs improve release and transition.

  • Size and Weight

Coming in at 11 ounces and available in half sizes, the Adrenaline GTS 18 fits as expected from the sizing chart.

PROS

  • checkGreat support for feet transitions
  • checkOffers arch support
  • checkShock-absorbent
  • checkIdeal for flat-footers too
  • checkFits perfectly
  • checkComfortable
  • checkLightweight
  • checkPrevents sweating

CONS

  • Soft, thin soles

3. Altra Men’s TIMP Trail Running Shoes

ALTRA Mens TIMP Trail, Color: Gray, Size: 10

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The Altra TIMP Trail Running Shoes is available in four colors. However, more than the aesthetics, the design is well-thought of making it worthy of considering.

Features

The amount of cushioning and fit of the Altra TIMP Trail Running Shoes is in between the moderate cushioning of the Lone Peak and full cushioning of the Olympus, other Altra shoes. With this sufficient amount, it is suitable for long-distance running, ultra-running, and fast-packing.

  • Overall Design

The design improves the natural position of the feet and the toe splay. It has a 29mm stack height and four mm outsole lugs to make it versatile and comfortable for various distances and trails. The zero-drop platform corrects over-pronation to improve performance.

  • TPU Overlays

For breathability and durability, the Altra TIMP Trail Running Shoe has upper TPU overlays with additional coverage in the toe box and heel cap. It drains well after a full submersion.

  • The Midsole

The midsole is made with extra light EVA with A-bound, while the outsole is made with MaxTrac Rubber with TrailClaw. The other parts are made of human-made fabric and mesh for strength and comfort.

  • Gator Trap

This pair also features a gator trap, which is an attachment in the ankle area that protects it against weeds and other sharp objects when running in the fields and grassy trails.

Aside from running long distances, the Altra TIMP Trail Running Shoes is also excellent for moderate trail running and long-distance walking. It is an excellent shoe for traveling because it is lightweight, comfortable, and roomy.

PROS

  • checkFits wide feet
  • checkAnkle-protection feature
  • checkBalanced zero-drop shoe
  • checkProvides solid support
  • checkAvailable in half sizes
  • checkTrue to size
  • checkSturdy
  • checkCorrects Achilles ache

CONS

  • Not suitable for heavy-footed runners
  • Not suited for rock surfaces
  • Expensive

FINAL VERDICT

Choosing the best long distance running shoes is a matter of personal needs and preferences. There are many factors to consider, such as design, comfort, stability, and support. Aside from these, the runner’s pronation is also an important consideration.

After a thorough evaluation, we found that the Altra TIMP Trail Running Shoes stands out among the other two. It comes with so many features that complement each other to provide the perfect balance of stability and comfort. Featuring light cushioning to support zero-drop running, it is excellent for running for hours.

The Altra TIMP Trail Running Shoes gives value to money. While it is quite expensive, it provides the right support for other activities, such as traveling and light trail running.

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10 thoughts on “Best Long Distance Running Shoes for a Powerful Performance”

  1. These are all some great looking shoes! Thanks for sharing your advice.

    I definitely need to invest in a better pair of running shoes. In the past I’ve just grabbed a cheap option, because I didn’t think about what kinds of long term affects it would have on my body. Running is great, but it turns out that it can also be pretty rough on your legs, knees, etc., if you don’t treat them right. Some of these tips were new to me!

    I’m leaning towards the Adidas shoes, just because I’ve liked the brand for a long time. But all of these look good! 

    Reply
    • Hello, Jordan and thank you.

      Thank you for your kind words.

      Like you say, in the long run, many times it is cheaper to buy shoes with more qualities even so it cost more because it works longer and better. And especially if it is better for your body.

      But I have been Adidas in descents of years, so I understand you very well about that. But these shoes are excellent

      If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.

      Reply
  2. I am looking for some great running shoes for my grandson and having read your post I also think the Adidas Bounce shoe will be really beneficial with his training although he is very hard on his footwear so I am hoping they are resilient enough for him.

    I am going to go and purchase a pair for him to trial and thank you for this recommendation.

    He loves running but often complains about tender feet especially the inner part of his foot and because these are Adidas I feel he will be a happy young man when they arrive for him so thank you

    Reply
    • Hello, Vicki and thank you.

      Thank you for your kind words.

      This Adidas shoe is excellent. I have personally used and been an Adidas fan in many years. But at the same time, I mention that the other shoes are perfect too and the Brooks brands have tremendous respect. And for a reason.

      If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.

      Reply
  3. This site on “What makes a Good Running Shoe” is extremely insightful and very useful for anyone looking to purchase running shoes.  I had never thought about the anatomy of a shoe, yet it makes sense.  Would the ideal running shoe need to have all of the features that you listed or does it depend on the individual? 

    Personally, I am into walking and would be interested to know if the same shoes and information would be suitable for walking or different.  If it’s different, do you think you might do a similar article on a “good walking shoe?”  I can see how many people, including myself, would be interested in that topic as well. 

    Thanks for sharing this informative post.  I found it interesting and very helpful.

    Reply
    • Hello, Adreyna and thank you.

      Thank you for your kind words.

      The ideal shoes are focused on the individuals. We are all different and what fits for one does not necessarily fit for others. The ideology and development about how shoes are made take that in the picture, so the most important thing is to find out what is best for your body.

      Thank you for the idea of writing an article about walking shoes. Even so most running shoes are good for walking too, I use them a lot personally when I walk, there is some difference between them. I have had it on my plan to do it, and hopefully, it comes sooner than later.

      If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.

      Reply
  4. Thanks for this review and good comparison between Adidas’ Alphabounce, Brooks Men’s Adrenaline, and Altra Men’s TIMP Trail running shoes. Based on your said pros and cons, I will definitely choose the third although it is quite expensive than the rest. When it comes to quality, we get what we pay for, right?

    Before I buy, there’s one thing I’d like to know. In my previous running shoes, when I temporarily stopped running because of my busy business schedule, I have put the shoes in a box inside a cabinet. To my disappointment, parking the shoes inside a cabinet has made it rotten. The next time I tried wearing it, it’s unusable. 

    My friends have told me to never put used shoes inside a cabinet if you intend not to use it for a long time because it will self-destroy. But where should I park it? Will my Altra Men’s TIMP Trail Shoes suffer the same fate?

    Reply
    • Hello, Gomer, and thank you.

      Thank you for your kind words.

      For any reason, you need to change shoes after some time, even if you don´t use it.

      But if you treat the shoes well you can use it longer. The most important thing is to keep the shoes in a cool place because the most important is to have the running shoes in a place where there is good air.

      If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.

      Reply
  5. Great article about the best long distance running shoes.  My husband has been running for years and just loves it. His birthday is coming up and I plan to buy him a new pair of running shoes because his are practically falling apart now.  I just started running and enjoy but didn’t feel like I knew enough to make an informed purchase for him, so I got on-line to do a little investigating on what’s a good shoe to buy for him.  I really liked the three shoes you discussed and my hubby has mentioned all three in passing, but like you, I have decided to go with the Altra TIMP Trail Running Shoe. I think it will be the perfect gift for him.  Now do you have any suggestions for a good women’s running shoe?

    Reply
    • Hello, HighLife101, and thank you.

      Thank you for your kind words.

      Yes, I wrote a review about really good runners shoes for women; Asics Gel-Venture 6 MX Women’s Running Shoes.

      I can recommend it highly! You can see it here.

      If I can help you with anything else, or if you have any questions, don´t hesitate to contact me.

      Reply

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