How we test running shoes
When we assessed the ultra shoes on this list, we got down to the tiniest details to make sure they aren’t a letdown. We purchased them ourselves to prevent bias and examined them thoroughly in our independent shoe testing lab.
We also carefully follow these steps throughout our tests:
- We run at least 30-50 miles in each shoe. We report everything that we feel and encounter while wearing the shoes during our real-life runs, both indoor and outdoor, especially during long-distance sprints.
- We cut them into pieces to scrutinize their parts. We also measure each part through 30 different parameters.
Best ultra running shoes overall
Hoka Tecton X 2
87
Great!
What makes it the best?
We conquered endurance runs on off-the-beaten paths with ease thanks to the best ultra shoe — Tecton X 2. Both our lab analysis and actual runs prove this lightweight champion has so much to offer: stability, cushion for long miles, grip for various terrains, and the finest MATRYX upper.
We found Tecton’s features to be very well-suited for trail racing and endurance runs. It feels balanced overall despite being a cushioned shoe and we never lost control on slippery slopes with the 3.6 mm lugs.
Tecton's clever combination of dual-density foams and two parallel carbon plates in between translates to a dynamic and protective ride. Our durometer shows the top layer is a soft 21.8 HA, dampening the impact of demanding distances. Whereas the bottom foam is a firmer 26.1 HA for more protection and stability. Its stack boasts an above-average 37.4/31.8 mm height, making it cushioned for all footstrikers.
Despite the height, we surprisingly feel light and nimble. Upon checking our scale, this shoe weighs only 9.1 oz (257g). Adding to the airy feeling is the premium MATRYX upper, which is a rare combination of breathability and durability. It exceeds the standard on both our breathability and Dremel lab tests.
We warn caution that the toebox feels tighter than average, and it is at 96.0 mm. Best to size up to allow some room for the feet to swell, especially for ultras.
Pros
- Incredibly speedy and enjoyable ride
- Breathable yet sturdy upper
- Reliable traction across various terrains
- Exceptionally durable upper and outsole
- Surprisingly lighter
- Perfect for speedwork and racing on mild to moderate trails
- Sufficiently cushioned for ultra-distance comfort
- Accommodates all types of footstrikes effectively
Cons
- Limited space in the toe area
- Lacks energy return from the EVA midsole
- The $225 price tag might be steep for some buyers
Full review of Hoka Tecton X 2
Best ultra running shoes with a zero drop
Altra VIA Olympus
84
Good!
What makes it the best?
True to Altra fashion, the Altra VIA Olympus is a zero-drop shoe with amazing cushioning, a heavenly upper, and a roomy toe box. Wrapped in a smooth ride, the Altra VIA Olympus seals the deal as the best ultra running shoe with zero drop. There's no better zero-drop shoe for conquering those long miles.
We measured the heel stack of the Altra VIA Olympus at 34.2 mm, which is just 1 mm more than the average of road running shoes. Still, there was more than enough cushioning for underfoot protection throughout long runs.
The well-ventilated upper is padded and plush, yet it remains insanely breathable—providing comfort during mile munching. We scored the upper a 4 out of 5 in our breathability test as the smoke that we pumped into the shoe effortlessly passed through the upper.
The Altra VIA Olympus can accommodate even the widest of feet measuring 101.4 mm at the widest part on the toe box—3.5 mm wider than the average of road running shoes. Even with a wide-toe box, it felt snug and provided our feet with a good fit with more than enough room to accommodate swelling feet.
As a max-cushioned shoe, it tips the scales at 299g (10.55oz) while the the average weight of road running shoes is 268g (9.45 oz). Ultrarunners who prefer lighter options will want to explore alternatives.
Pros
- Comfortable and premium-feeling upper
- Roomy, unmistakably-Altra fit
- Secure lockdown even for narrow feet
- Smooth and responsive ride
- Good for any distance at an easy pace
- Effective, but not obtrusive, rocker
- Copious amount of padding
- Breathable
- Absorbs impact well
Cons
- Cushioning on the firm side, but a toss-up on how firm
- Doesn’t feel like a zero-drop shoe
- Substantial break-in period
- On the heavier side
Full review of Altra VIA Olympus
Ultra running shoes with the best cushioning
Salomon Ultra Glide 2
86
Good!
What makes it the best?
Overcoming ultras require an effective impact dampener to sustain long-haul efforts and we find Salomon Ultra Glide 2’s cushioning to be the best among ultra running shoes. It provides comfort not only through its velvet foam, but also through its light, airy, and free-flowing nature.
Housing an energyFOAM, we’re spoiled with excellent cushioning and a bouncy ride. It feels buttery-smooth, as validated by our durometer to be 34.3% softer than the average trail shoe. Its 30.6/23.4 mm stack sits right below average but still has enough foam to protect our feet. This gives the advantage of a better ground feel, and therefore more stability.
Creating a more effortless ride is the midsole that moves with our feet without much restriction. Our flex test validates it’s 33.4% more adaptive than its counterparts, giving us more agility and control.
UG2 is literally a breath of fresh air. Its 10.1 oz (286g) weight is lighter than the 10.4 oz (296g) average and is more breathable than most trail shoes. It scored 4/5 on our breathability test in the lab. Trail shoes rarely reach this score.
Its focus on light weight sacrificed durability. Its outsole is only 1.6 mm thin vs. the 2.7 mm average, making it more prone to wear.
Pros
- Breathable upper
- One heck of a lockdown
- Soft and protective cushioning
- Good energy return
- Very smooth, fun ride
- Comfy for roads, good traction on moderately technical trails
- Outstanding for daily miles and (very) long runs
- Also works for faster efforts
Cons
- Poor outsole durability
- Using lace garage can get frustrating
- Long tongue has a tendency to cause some rubbing
- Maybe too narrow for some
Full review of Salomon Ultra Glide 2
Ultra running shoes with the best comfort
Saucony Endorphin Edge
83
Good!
What makes it the best?
We go fast and far with Saucony’s Endorphin Edge. It’s built for speed and long distances with its minimal weight, maximum cushion, and consistent energy return. It’s an effective impact dampener and provides the best comfort for ultras.
Endorphin Edge screams comfort with its combination of a soft and above-average thick slab of foam. It’s a place that provides relief for many, many miles, which helps us perform well on endurance runs. Our durometer validates its delightful foam is 17.2% softer than the average running shoe.
Its light nature does a favor of keeping our legs fresh, weighing 9.5 oz (269g). It's at par with road running shoes while carrying the grip of trail shoes. Its upper is an engineered mesh that strikes the equilibrium between breathability and protection.
This pair delivers steady and robust power in endurance runs, ensuring high performance until the end. Its snappy carbon plate and rocker structure ensure a smooth ride. Our flex test in the lab confirms it's 78.7% stiffer than the average running shoe. This stiffness translates to insane responsiveness.
As a speed-oriented pair, it feels unstable and unnatural at slower paces. We feel like a fish out of water using this shoe for recovery runs.
Pros
- Fast as hell
- Comfort written all over it
- Super smooth ride
- Light AF
- Protection can't be more awesome
- Breathable under warm temps
- Toe box is ready for ultras
- Carbon plate is not harsh
- Grippy on wet, loose, and soft trails
- Also great for the roads
Cons
- Unstable at slow paces
- Loose heel
Full review of Saucony Endorphin Edge
Best lightweight ultra running shoes
Hoka Challenger 7
85
Good!
What makes it the best?
The Hoka Challenger 7—with its revolutionary comfort, reliable protection, and amazing traction—delivers an enjoyable ride for cruising miles on miles. All these while being as light as it is, the Hoka Challenger 7 is no doubt the best lightweight ultra-running shoe.
Weighing in at a paper thin 250g (8.82 oz), the Challenger 7 is significantly lighter than the average of trail running shoes at 296g (10.44 oz). With all the cushioning and protection it offers, it is almost magical that this is possible. We felt like we were wearing clouds and not trail shoes.
Additionally, the Challenger 7 offers comfort and protection via a padded upper and a generously cushioned midsole. Its tongue is 8.6 mm thick (2.4 mm thicker than average) while its heel stack is 32.9 mm versus a 31.8 mm trail shoe average—definitely more than enough to help protect the feet.
Though not as aggressive as other shoes, the outsole is quite grippy. During our tests, we coursed through gravel, tarmac, and light trails—even in wet conditions and the Challenger 7 was reliable all throughout.
The Hoka Challenger 7 is not particularly energetic, but a rockered geometry helps keep the legs turning. Runners looking for more poppy shoes should consider other shoes.
Pros
- Lighter than before
- Effective lockdown
- Stable and smooth ride
- Superior comfort
- Plenty protective underfoot
- Excellent feel on roads
- Grippy on most surfaces
- Doubles as a walking shoe
Cons
- Ride lacks excitement
- Not durable outsole
- Greater-than-expected drop
- Narrow toebox
Full review of Hoka Challenger 7
Best budget ultra running shoes
Saucony Peregrine 13
87
Great!
What makes it the best?
Looking for a lightweight shoe that’s balanced, grippy and fits the budget? A combination of lab tests and actual runs helped us choose the most budget-friendly ultra shoe. Hello, it’s Saucony’s Peregrine 13! At $140, it’s more affordable than the $159 average of ultra-running shoes.
Not only is this pair light in the pocket, it’s light on the feet too! At 9.6 oz (271g), it's as light as a road-running shoe and 8% lighter than the average trail shoe. Its pleasant upper allowed our toes to feel the breeze, keeping our runs airy and fresh. Confirming this is its above-average 4/5 score on our breathability test.
Its 29.1 HA cushion felt delightfully balanced, as confirmed by our durometer since it sits right above the average. Its firm foam protected our feet while the 7.0-mm thick insole added comfort to our long runs. It provided much relief since it’s 52% thicker than average.
Protecting us from slips and mishaps is the outsole with excellent traction. It kept us steady as we ran through various terrains with its 4.8-mm sticky lugs. We felt confident no matter what pavement we ran in.
Due to its more flexible nature, this pair lacks the explosive energy PR chasers are looking for. We recommend exploring other options for races.
Pros
- Cushioned midsole
- Protective rock plate
- Better for longer efforts than the v12
- A good trail racing option
- Great traction whether on ice, snow, gravel, and dirt
- Mud just falls off the outsole
- Comfy and airy upper
- Performance-oriented fit
- No heel slippage
- Smooth and natural-feeling ride
Cons
- Debris tends to get in
- Not as fast as other speedwork trail shoes
- Too-firm midsole
Full review of Saucony Peregrine 13
Ultra running shoes with the best speed
Nike Ultrafly
90
Superb!
What makes it the best?
In our lab tests and actual endurance runs, we can confirm Nike Ultrafly goes the distance with strong energy return, immense cloud-like comfort, and exceptional stability. We don’t feel our feet counting the miles because this performance-driven shoe gives all the power, TLC, and support we need. No doubt, it’s our top speed ultra running shoe.
Even as a trail shoe, Ultrafly stands out by giving a plush and bouncy platform. Our 9.8 HA durometer measurement is one of the softest in our lab. That’s a mindblowing 63.7% softer than average. Together with its thick ZoomX stack, this pair saves our legs from the harshness of ultras.
Our runs feel far from dull, with the full-length carbon plate promoting fast and efficient strides. Our bend test confirms it's 31.5% stiffer than average. This stiffness drives consistent energy return, which greatly helps us sustain long-haul efforts.
The midsole’s rigidity and vastness contribute to a ride that feels steady and stable. We didn’t have any issues with awkward ankle rolls thanks to Ultrafly’s supportive platform. It ensures steady landings and generous room for wide feet by giving 122.1/93.4 mm room in the forefoot and heel areas.
All the comfort and support come at a heavy weight of 10.6 oz (299g). Runners who prefer lighter shoes should check other options.
Pros
- Optimized for trail races
- Accommodates wide feet with ease
- Full-length, responsive Pebax midsole
- Equipped with a Vibram Megagrip outsole
- Ideal for long-distance training
- Offers outstanding comfort
- Remarkably stable
- Suitable for 100-mile races
Cons
- The Vaporweave upper could be more durable and breathable
- Heavier than expected even for a trail racing shoe
- The $260 price tag might be steep for some
Full review of Nike Ultrafly
Choosing the best ultra running shoes
Every ultrarunner has at least one foot-related horror story. Running in the wrong shoes is perhaps the biggest cause of ultramarathon DNFs, resulting in rolled ankles, painful blood blisters, blackened toenails, and feet simply too fatigued to take another step.
The features of the best ultrarunning shoes
Ultrarunning is defined as any run or race exceeding a marathon (26.2 miles/42.2 kilometers) in distance. Official ultramarathons typically begin at the 50 km distance and go up to 200 miles or even more.
There are road ultras, track ultras, and trail ultras, and the best ultrarunning shoes vary widely among each. But ultrarunning involves long distances and a lot of time on your feet, no matter the surface, and the best ultrarunning shoes all share a few key design features.
Cushioning
Ultrarunning involves many tens of thousands—or even hundreds of thousands—of steps in a single go. Your shoes must be capable of protecting you from the accumulative effect of those impact forces, so the best ultrarunning shoes are highly cushioned, with most featuring a heel stack height of 30mm or more.
Comfort
Small hot spots or minor discomforts that may be tolerable on shorter runs can morph into race-ending problems over ultra distances. Whether on the road, track, or trail, ultrarunning shoes must be extremely comfortable. They should be breathable, provide excellent heel lockdown, and have extra room in the midfoot and toe box for swelling feet.
Support
Deep into an ultramarathon, your running form will begin to disintegrate as leg muscles succumb to extreme fatigue. Supportive and protective shoes will help prevent the rolled ankles and stubbed toes that become more common late into races.
The best trail ultrarunning shoes
Trail ultrarunning shoes have different traction, protection, and fit geared towards specific trail terrain.
Traction
Trail ultrarunning shoes feature lugs and sticky rubber outsoles to provide the necessary traction over steep terrain and variable surfaces.
Trail ultrarunning shoes for wet, muddy trails, like Saucony’s Peregrine and Xodus Ultra, will have deep, aggressive lugs. Trail shoes for dry and relatively smooth trails, like the Hoka Tecton X and Salomon Ultra Glide, still have lugs and solid traction, but don’t have the bite you will want on wet trails. Light trail shoes are, however, light and nimble, making them excellent choices for ultramarathons on more runnable trails.
Protection
Like lug size and outsole construction, different trail ultrarunning shoes provide different levels of protection. For ultramarathons featuring mountain scree or rooty and rocky trails, look for trail shoes with rock plates and toe guards to ensure the longevity of your feet.
On less technical terrain, it is possible to get away in shoes with scaled-back protective features, like the Nike Wildhorse and Hoka Challenger. These shoes are lighter, but without sacrificing the cushioning you want to have for ultra distances.
Fit
Trail ultras usually include running up, down, and flat on uneven terrain. The wide variety of conditions makes shoe fit even more important. You want shoes with a generous toe box, but without sacrificing a secure lockdown. A roomy forefoot combined with a sloppy fit can result in smashed toes and blackened toenails.
Fit is highly individual, so the best way to get it right is to try shoes on in person, ideally following a long run while your feet are swollen to simulate mid-ultra conditions.
These two shoes have the same size but a different kind of fit
The best road ultrarunning shoes
Trail and ultrarunning have become somewhat synonymous. And although the majority of ultramarathons are trail races, that is not always the case. Many time-based ultras are held on race tracks. The 89 km Comrades Marathon in South Africa, one of the most iconic ultras in the world, is entirely on pavement.
The best ultrarunning shoes for road ultras don’t require traction, rock plates, or toe guards the way trail ultras do. Instead comfort and fit are the priorities. You can go with high stack, but relatively lightweight road shoes that provide strong lateral stability, like the Altra Via Olympus. Again, a good fit is essential. You don’t want any hotspots or an overly tight fit, as small irritations can balloon into unbearable pain, even on flat and smooth pavement.
The best ultrarunning shoes: what to look for
Choosing the best ultrarunning shoes may feel overwhelming. The success or failure of a big race often comes down to ensuring your feet stay happy and healthy for many, many hours.
Perhaps the hardest part of ultrarunning shoe selection is the inevitability of breaking running’s golden rule of “nothing new on race day”. You should, of course, always test out new shoes on shorter training days, but it is impossible to know what a pair of shoes feels like after 50 or 100 miles until doing it in a race.
When running new ultra distances on new courses, you won’t really know if your shoes are working for you until you’re doing it. It is these unknowns that make ultrarunning so challenging and so alluring at the same time.
These challenges are unavoidable, but it is possible to mitigate the chances of things going wrong by knowing the key features that make for the best ultrarunning shoes. Your shoes should be comfortable and well-cushioned, with protective features to match the terrain you will be tackling. Ensure a good fit, break your shoes in over shorter training runs, then prepare to forge into the unknown.
