Best Running Shoes With Carbon Fiber Plates
Designed as a race day shoe to optimise speed and performance over distances from 10K to marathon, running shoes with carbon-fiber plates have revolutionised the sport. These models are packed with ultra-responsive foam compositions and propulsive carbon-fiber plates designed to break personal bests. Updated February 2021.
Best for Race Day
Saucony Endorphin Pro
Equipped with Saucony's most responsive midsole foam, a carbon fiber plate, and a track spike inspired mesh upper, the Saucony Endorphin Pro is one of our favourite carbon fiber racing shoes. The foam is ultra-lightweight and responsive, and the shoe's Speedroll geometry pushes the wearer's body to run fast and efficiently to create a lively, propulsive ride. The shoe delivers a fantastic pop and the beaded PWRUNPB design adds durability.
New Balance FuelCell RC Elite
The New Balance FuelCell RC Elite takes inspiration from NB's elite mile racer, the 5280, and beefs it up with added cushioning and a sleek upper to deliver high performance over longer distances. Featuring the lightest and most responsive FuelCell compound to date, the FuelCell RC Elite was built for elite marathoners. Due to its slightly lower stack height (compared to some of the other elite marathon racers), the shoe is also a great option for the half-marathon and potentially even some shorter races.
HOKA ONE ONE Rocket X
The HOKA Rocket X was first seen on the feet of Aliphine Tuliamuk when she won the US Olympic Marathon Trials, and it continues to be the fastest racing shoe in the current HOKA line. Featuring a new, responsive midsole compound and the same plate seen in the Carbon X, the Rocket X has a fast and simple design that will excel at the marathon. While the midsole compound isn't the highest tech, it offers a huge upgrade over past HOKA plated shoes, and it continues to be one of the best values among the elite racing shoes.
ASICS MetaRacer
ASICS performance running was back in a big way in 2020 and now with the introduction of the new Metaracer, the brand secures their credibility in the racing space. Featuring an updated flytefoam compound that’s softer and more responsive, along with a dual sided “lobster claw” shaped carbon fiber plate, the shoe has a propulsive ride that is lower in stack when compared to some of the more maximally cushioned plated racers. This sleeker design definitely gives the shoe a faster feeling for 5ks and 10ks, but those who enjoy the feel of a traditional racing flat may choose this shoe for a marathon.
adidas adizero Pro
The adidas adizero Pro takes a different approach than the competition. Featuring a blend of Lightstrike and boost cushioning along with a stiff carbon fiber plate, the adizero Pro is built to pick up the pace. Compared to some of the other plated racing options, the adizero Pro is much lower to the ground. This gives it a more nimble, faster feeling ride. While the weight of the shoe is slightly on the heavier side compared to other plated racers, fans of adidas racing shoes should enjoy the overall experience of the adizero Pro.
Brooks Hyperion Elite 2
Brooks entered the carbon plate scene in early 2020 with the Hyperion Elite. After feedback from pro athletes seeking even more cushioning and energy return, the designers quickly went back to the lab and developed the Hyperion Elite 2. Now featuring Brooks' latest super foam, DNA Amp, mixed with a stiff carbon fiber plate, the Hyperion Elite 2 is built with lightweight efficiency in mind. With added stack height to go the distance and an even springier foam, the Hyperion Elite 2 delivers everything you need to run a PR over the full marathon distance.
ON Cloudboom
The ON Cloudboom was designed through working with athletes to Swiss-engineer the ultimate shoe for marathons and road races. It's ultra light but powerful. It's agile enough to handle sharp turns, but without compromise to cushioning. It's everything you need for your fastest marathon ever. The Cloudboom features a new carbon-fiber infused Speedboard for serious explosivity and speed. With a twin layer of CloudTec in Helion super foam. One above the Speedboard and one below, delivering a unique, adaptive fit underfoot.
Best Plated Shoes for High-Performance Training
HOKA ONE ONE Carbon X 2
The original Carbon X debuted in 2019 and was built specifically for Jim Walmsley to take down the 100-mile world record. The Carbon X 2 features impressive updates from this shoe which will not disappoint if you are looking for a carbon plated, endurance racer. Featuring a softer, lighter midsole to create a more plush ride and a redesigned carbon plate for a better toe-off, this shoe is ready to help you speed through your next marathon or ultra-marathon. The refined heel collar, gusseted tongue and anatomical Achilles construction all come together to lock your feet in place and ensure maximal comfort.
ASICS GlideRide 2
Asics has kept the everyday runner in mind with the creation of the GlideRide. It features longstanding ASICS technologies like Flytefoam and Rearfoot Gel, with the addition of a unique midsole shape and stiffness. This unique rocker shape helps to propel the runner forward while reducing the energy needed to run. The soft and adaptable upper is combined with plush cushioning for all-day comfort. The GlideRide is a great option for long runs and moderate paces for anyone from beginners to advanced runners.