Marathon racing super shoes have evolved significantly since their unofficial debut at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Back then, Nike-sponsored runners like Eliud Kipchoge and Galen Rupp showcased the first carbon-plated super shoes, sparking a revolution in the running world. The subsequent years saw a race among brands to develop their own versions of these high-tech shoes, leading to the current era where elite athletes won’t hit the starting line without them.
As the men’s and women’s 2024 Paris Olympic marathons approached, the spotlight turned to the footwear choices of top athletes navigating the challenging 26.2-mile course from Paris to Versailles. Brands like Adidas, Asics, New Balance, Nike, On, Puma, and Under Armour have introduced their cutting-edge models designed to enhance performance and efficiency for these elite runners.
Adidas took the running world by storm with the Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1, a featherweight super shoe that made waves when Ethiopia’s Tigst Assefa shattered the women’s marathon world record wearing it at the Berlin Marathon. This shoe, designed for optimal use in a singular race, stands out as one of the lightest options available, setting a new standard in the industry.
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3, another top contender, offers a stable and fast ride for runners seeking a supported feel underfoot. With innovative features like lightweight TPU-based foam and carbon-fiber Energy Rods, this shoe has become a favorite among podium finishers in major races.
Asics entered the super shoe arena with the Metaspeed Edge Paris and Metaspeed Sky Paris models, each catering to different stride patterns. The Metaspeed Edge Paris, designed for high-cadence runners, boasts a unique carbon-fiber plate placement for forward propulsion, while the Metaspeed Sky Paris targets long-striding athletes with enhanced foam rebound for extended stride length.
New Balance introduced the FuelCell SuperComp Pacer v2, a sleek and responsive racing shoe ideal for marathon distances, with input from American record holder Emily Sisson. This model, featuring a thicker midsole and an embedded carbon-fiber plate, offers a smooth and energetic ride for elite runners.
Nike’s Alphafly 3 and Vaporfly 3 continue to dominate the super shoe market, providing long-striding runners with high-energy rides and lightweight cushioning. With updated designs and enhanced features like responsive foam and carbon fiber plates, these models deliver a trampoline-like effect for optimal performance.
On’s Cloudboom Strike and Cloudboom Strike LS showcase innovative technologies like Helium Hyperfoam and LightSpray for a lightweight and streamlined fit. These super shoes offer superior energy return and a comfortable ride, making them a popular choice among elite athletes.
Puma’s Deviate Nitro Elite 3 and Under Armour’s Velociti Elite 2 have also made their mark in the super shoe category, with advanced features like nitrogen-infused midsoles and carbon fiber plates for improved cushioning and stability. These models cater to diverse running styles, providing a smooth and efficient running experience.
As the Zurich Marathon approaches, elite runners are gearing up to showcase their skills and speed wearing the latest super shoes that have revolutionized the world of marathon racing. These high-tech footwear options have not only transformed the way athletes perform but have also set new standards for innovation and excellence in the running industry.
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