The longer the distance, the greater the load on the athlete's foot. Marathons and ultramarathons place special demands on running shoes: after all, the load increases with each kilometer, and bad shoes can easily lead to injury.
What are the features of choosing running shoes for a marathon?
When choosing running shoes for a marathon distance, it is important to consider:
- The nature of the ground at a distance.
- Features of own anatomy.
- Features of running technique.
By default, every extra gram of shoe weight is extra effort. Therefore, standard marathon running shoes as light as possible: thin tongue, thin heel area, thin sole without a large drop from heel to toe, minimal cushioning layer, breathable material. "Marathon shoes" are usually flat and flexible: they allow you to feel the ground and run easily and freely, with the best result.
An example of running shoes for a marathon would be with ultra-thin outsole, maximum responsiveness and minimum weight, but without loss of stability: ideal for a good sports performance.
- fast light marathons with good lateral support.
- light, with excellent cushioning, "feeling" the ground, for feet with neutral and overpronation.
But the usual "marathon" is not suitable for everyone.
Soil nature
If all 40 km pass on a flat asphalt surface, then a flat sole will cope with the ground. Uneven surfaces, gravel, mountainous terrain require maximum protection of the foot due to a durable and thicker sole. Also, mountainous terrain may require a tighter fixation of the shoe on the leg and stabilization of the ankle.
Examples of "off-road" shoes - , ultra-light, airy, well ventilated, with plenty of cushioning and aggressive tread for better grip.
Foot Features
The characteristics of the arch of the foot when running long distances is the main factor in choosing shoes. With excessive or insufficient pronation, anatomical shoes are already necessary. Overloading without supportive shoes is guaranteed to cause injury over long distances. Sneakers for high and low arches are selected individually and can be adjusted using anatomical insoles.
Features of running technique
Proper running technique is the key to good cushioning. Light stance puts less stress on the joints. Conventional "marathons" do not forgive any deviations from the correct technique due to the lack of shock-absorbing layers. If the athlete lands hard and runs from heel to toe, then a good cushioning of a few cm is the key to finishing at an extra long distance. Asics uses special gel inserts that dampen shocks, Mizuno cushions the sole with a specially designed elastic plastic (Mizuno Wave technology). When running on a heel with a good rollover, soft sneakers with a porous material inside are perfect.
Athlete weight
The heavier the runner, the more resilient and rigid the running shoes will be required, and the thicker the sole should be. Soft porous materials already after the first ten kilometers “sag” under heavy weight (over 80-90 kg), and lose their impact softening properties. Even for competitions, heavyweights should choose a model that belongs to the class of sneakers for volume training, and do not chase the low weight of the shoe.
Runners of medium (up to 70 kg) and low weight with good ground and proper running technique are suitable for ordinary “marathons” or “half-marathons” with a slight rise in the heel area.
Gender specifics
Women's sneakers differ from men's not only in design. The female foot requires an extra few millimeters of lift to reduce the load on the Achilles tendon, and this must be taken into account when running long distances.
- Shoes must fit perfectly. If there is the slightest discomfort, then after 10 km there will be a blister in this place, and after 30 you will have to retire. Do not be afraid to choose shoes for a long time and carefully: try on the entire available range. Measure on a sports sock - this is the final fit of the shoe to the foot.
- Choose shoes according to size. The free movement of the fingers is very important: during many hours of running stress, squeezed fingers will lose blood supply. Choose sneakers in the evening: at this time, the foot swells a little and requires a slightly larger shoe size. Consider the width of the foot: a narrow foot in wide sneakers will not be stable. Extra strength will be spent on maintaining balance.
- Competition shoes must be neither brand new nor old. You will not have time to get used to the new one, and the shortcomings of the shoes will be felt right at a distance. The old one does not absorb well and loses some of its characteristics. Ideally, practice in competition shoes 2-3 weeks before your race to get used to it.
- Saving on running shoes for a marathon is saving on your own health. Do not spare money on expensive professional shoes of a good brand: their real advantages at a distance will pay off the costs of your subsequent treatment a hundredfold.
Where to buy marathon shoes
The Professionalsport.ru online store offers a wide range of long-distance running shoes from world famous sports brands
You need to carefully and thoroughly approach the choice of shoes for a marathon race. Behind a distance of 40 kilometers anything could happen.
Marathon shoes must be high quality, breathable, hold the foot tightly all the way.
Long distance running shoes
Conventionally, shoes are divided into:
- marathon;
- half marathons;
- intermediate models.
marathons
This is a type of running shoes that not in the official classification. The names of the models were given by the athletes themselves for their lightness. Such shoes is soft and flexible.
Marathons have flat sole. But this model is not for everyone. marathons chosen by athletes whose weight does not exceed 60 kilograms. With more weight on a marathon in such sneakers, you can easily damage the foot, since the load on the legs is very high.
The shoes are different every part of the surface is felt in it. This is an advantage for the runner, as by feeling the track, it is possible to correctly distribute forces.
But the presence of a flat sole will not protect the athlete from gravel or small stones, as sneakers have practically no protectors. They are more often used on a special covering of stadiums. In marathons no supinator, therefore, if the runner has minimal deviations in the structure of the foot from the norm, it is better to choose a different shoe option.
Popular Models marathon:
- Asics Piranha.
- Mizuno Wave Universe 4.
- Saucony Grid Type A5.
- Brooks T7 Racer.
Photo 1. Brooks T7 Racer asphalt racing shoes with bright colors, weight 170 gr.
Half marathon
This is another interesting name given to shoes by athletes. In fact, this has nothing to do with the classification of sneakers. Half marathon seriously differ from marathon shoes in design. In the conventional sense of a marathon race, it is much easier to run in such shoes.
Important! High cushioning properties of half marathons more suitable for running and can easily support above average weight. You can run a marathon in running shoes even in bad weather when grip on the running surface is reduced.
Advantages:
- dense sole;
- the presence of an instep support;
- reinforced toe and high heel;
- good depreciation;
- treads for better grip.
Of the minuses they call that these models are tangible in weight when compared with marathons.
Half marathons are also suitable for runners, with heel strike technique, in many models this moment is provided. Half marathons are more popular among runners.
These sneakers are versatile and suitable for long runs on asphalt. Notable Models half marathon:
- Asics Gel-DS Trainer 18.
- Mizuno Wave Precision 13.
- Mizuno Wave Rider.
Intermediate models
Intermediate types are suitable for those runners who cannot choose between marathons and half marathons. There are situations when you need to run a high-speed marathon. asphalt pavement does not allow the use of marathon shoes due to their lightness, while half marathons are heavier and not suitable for the middleweight runner. Then intermediate models come to the rescue.
Such sneakers have absorbed the positive qualities of marathon running: lightness, excellent trail feel. Wherein in intermediate models reinforced heel and toe, as well as shoes has reinforced sole.
For such sneakers, manufacturers use lightweight materials to make them light while running with external roughness and power.
Intermediate models are suitable for athletes with a toe-based running technique. Popular intermediate models running shoes:
- Asics Gel-DS Racer 9.
- Asics Gel Foundation 11.
- Mizuno Wave Nirvana 9.
Choice of marathon shoes
Choice factors:
- weight;
- distance duration;
- surface type;
- size shoes.
The weight of the runner is of decisive importance in the selection. Athletes over 60 kilograms rarely choose marathons, but prefer half marathons or intermediate models.
Weightlifters less than 60 kilograms free to choose and for running can even purchase marathon shoes with thin soles.
Marathon runners choose for short distances, they have a better track feel. long distances require a dense sole and good cushioning to prevent foot injuries.
Shoes for long distances should correspond not only to the anatomical structure of the athlete's foot, but also be combined with the running surface. Depending on this, shoes for marathon running are chosen with dense or opposite thin soles.
If you have to run in natural conditions, then they prefer a dense sole so that it can withstand bumps and small stones. The main thing is that it does not “sag” during the marathon, does not become stone, since when running this is fraught with serious damage to the foot and ankle joint.
Important! If the marathon race is run on specially prepared coating, then the choice of sneakers is wide. Here fit soft and elastic models, without strongly pronounced protectors.
Need to focus on convenience and comfort. Do not forget about the size, width of the foot and running technique. Shoes are sized exactly. Deviation from this indicator is fraught with injury.
Important! It is worth making sure that the sneakers sat tight and did not hang out on the foot.
Choosing shoes for long runs or maybe your first marathon is not an easy task. We talked to runners with hundreds of miles behind them and found out which models they consider the coolest. A selection in our material.
Puma Speed 300 Ignite 2
Last year, Puma decided to expand its line of running shoes and launched a model with the telling name Speed (‘speed’). It is one of the brand's lightest running shoes and features a foam midsole that will allow you to train on the pavement as well. The upper is made from lightweight mesh fabric.
Sergey Cherepanov
marathon runner and head of the marathon running academyOne of the main advantages of the model is lightness, only 220 g. A narrow last, neutral pronation (the way the outer part of the foot is placed when walking and running), the lack of additional foot support - all this suits me. And for such a minimalist model, good depreciation. The shoes are suitable for track training and competitions from 5 to 21 km for runners weighing no more than 70 kg. Well, what is also very important, a beautiful appearance, an adequate price, sneakers are able to withstand more than 400 km of run - this is a very good indicator for a competitive model.
Lena Kalashnikova
The Puma Speed 300 has become a versatile training shoe for me. They are light enough to interval and soft enough to run long distances. Minus - instantly get wet if you get caught in the rain.
Hoka One One Bondi 5
Seven years ago, two French runners, Nicolas Mermoud and Jean-Luc Diard, founded the Hoka company, which featured thick soles in running shoes. Twice thicker than other brands! But at the same time, the shoes themselves are not heavy at all. The Bondi 5 is designed for running on pavement, you will appreciate the traction on hard surfaces. The toe section is quite wide - the fingers are guaranteed a free position.
Kirill Tsvetkov
ultramarathoner, sports bloggerHoka One One Bondi 5 is a thick-soled model for long and extra long distance running. Sneakers are designed for running on asphalt and do not have an aggressive tread, although they are also suitable for running on dense dirt tracks. The Hoka One One Bondi 5 has great cushioning, a wide forefoot fit, and a 4mm heel-to-foot drop, which also makes it easy to land on the ground from the midfoot or forefoot. You won’t be able to break speed records in such sneakers, but it’s quite possible to keep an average pace of 4.30 min / km.
Hoka One One Clifton 3
Another model of the Hoka One One brand for running on asphalt. These sneakers are loved for their thick soft soles, you can safely run marathons in them. The seamless upper of the shoe is practically devoid of hard elements and does not constrain the movement of the foot when running. The curved geometry of the outsole will give you a shoe with great responsiveness.
Anna Kosova
running blogger, experienced amateur runnerI have been running Clifton 3 for a long time and a lot. You can run in them not only on asphalt, but also on dirt paths and forest paths. Quite thick and soft heel allows you to save the joints and knees. Some say that you can easily twist your foot in Hoka, in fact, this is not true, because the foot in these sneakers sits like a boat thanks to a special design. When I first ran in them, it felt like I was running barefoot, again due to the construction of the shoe. The foot does not stop working, despite such powerful support, it is still always loaded anyway. And it's very cool.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 34
Two words characterize this model - lightness and speed. A kind of "workhorse" for all runners. Cushioning foam with Zoom Air units in both the heel and forefoot. An interesting detail is the reflective heel of the sneaker, now you can run in the dark without fear of going unnoticed. By the way, on the official website you can order sneakers by creating your own design.
Olga Smirnova
The Pegasus is a running classic, I have loved this model since 2011. And this year, the updated Pegasuses have become softer and more resilient, while retaining their speed properties. This model is ideal both for the track and for long distances on asphalt.
Nike Zoom Fly
The Nike Zoom Fly is engineered with special foam for a soft ride. The upper, by the way, is almost seamless, made of mesh material, which provides excellent ventilation - you will definitely appreciate this during long runs. The push with each step helps to create a special instep in the entire length of the sole. In this model, everything is done for speed.
Olga Smirnova
Nike Ambassador, two-time Russian champion in athleticsZoom Fly is a new model, there were no analogues yet. The innovative outsole keeps the foot from getting tired throughout the entire distance. But these shoes are more suitable for runners with more experience. Heel-runners are unlikely to appreciate them, since in this model the roll is in the forefoot, so that the landing is on this part.
Asics GEL-Noosa Tri 11
This model got its name in honor of the sports festival in the Australian town of Noosa, and it was developed for professional triathletes. Sneakers are designed for athletes weighing 65-80 kg, with neutral pronation. And although the model has changed a little over time, it is still distinguished by a bright design. The inner space forms an almost seamless structure - in these sneakers you can train without socks.
Anna Khryashcheva
Asics Ambassador, Candidate Master of Sports in Athletics, Master of Sports in mountain runningI am picky when it comes to running shoes. For daily training - one, for high-speed - others, and for starts - the third. I always spend an hour or more in the shops. I run and compare. Right now my competition shoe is the Noosa 11. It's a triathlon shoe. Suitable for both training and competition at distances of 20 km and above. These sneakers fit the foot, they are comfortable, no downed toes and calluses. But it should be borne in mind that these shoes are very specific and are more suitable for trained athletes who have a well-pumped foot and calf muscles.
Asics fuzeX Rush CM
Manufacturers claim that these shoes are suitable for a wide range of audiences - from beginners to professional runners. On the sole you will see the inscription fuzeGEL - this is a modernized cushioning, the layer is distributed over the entire area of \u200b\u200bthe sole, removing a significant part of the shock load from the foot joints.
Anna Khryashcheva
Asics Ambassador, Candidate Master of Sports in Athletics, Master of Sports in mountain runningPleasantly surprised by the fuzeX series. To be honest, they were attracted by the design, which is not similar to the classic Asics. The shoes are lightweight and fit perfectly on the foot. Neutral runners can become a favorite pair as they are very versatile. You can jog for six minutes - they will be pleasantly soft, or you can “roll out” out of four - they will push. The best option for long workouts with accelerations.
The main thing when choosing sneakers is to rely on your feelings and not compromise. At the preparation stage, even a slight discomfort can get into trouble (a callus, a broken nail) and spoil the start. Therefore, all experiments - in the offseason!
Adidas Adizero Takumi Ren 3
The Adizero Takumi Ren 3 was created in collaboration with Japanese shoe makers Omori and Mimura. Due to the excellent cushioning, you can run in these sneakers both in training and in competitions, rubber provides grip on the surface in all conditions - in such shoes you can easily train in the rain.
Lena Kalashnikova
runner, blogger far2run.ruThe Adidas Adizero Takumi Ren 3 is my competition shoe. Such shoes are needed for trained fast runners, they are useless for beginners. What's the point? Competitive shoes are much lighter than training shoes. Takumi weigh almost nothing, 170-180 g on the leg is not felt at all. Running in them is easy and fast, the sole is made so that it is comfortable to land on the forefoot. Minus - they do not last long. Mine failed after 200 km - such is the price for lightness. So if you wear them, then only for records.
Adidas Adizero Adios
The Adizero Adios sneakers are minimalist, very light. Only a light mesh material wraps around your foot, which, however, tightly fixes the foot - safety is ensured. A flexible outsole follows the natural movement of the foot, and a rubber outsole allows you to run even in the rain - excellent grip on wet surfaces. But even in the heat you will enjoy running in these sneakers, the mesh material provides full ventilation of the legs.
Iskander Yadgarov
Adidas ambassador, half marathon runnerFor competitions and speed training on the road, this is the second year that I have been using Adizero Adios marathon shoes - the most popular Adidas competition line. Four world records have been set in these sneakers! When running fast, the weight of the shoe plays a very important role - lighter versions have an advantage. The Adizero Adios has a streamlined, ergonomic silhouette made from lightweight mesh. But do not forget that no less important quality of good sneakers is depreciation and elasticity, otherwise the risk of injury increases. All of the latest Adios models feature the BOOST midsole, which provides exceptional comfort and cushioning, returning energy with every step.
Moreover, they are very stylish, it is not a shame to put on such shoes for the main start of this year - the Moscow Marathon. By the way, on the eve of this event, Adidas presents an exclusive model of Adizero Adios sneakers, released in a limited edition. A total of 250 pairs will go on sale on September 10th. I will wear them to the upcoming start.
Nike Air Zoom Vomero 10
Ten manufacturers say about the Nike Air Zoom Vomero model: comfort and softness. Inserts in the forefoot and heel provide responsive cushioning while you run, while a padded collar provides ankle support. This model, thanks to soft cushioning, can be suitable for runners during recovery.
Lena Kalashnikova
runner, blogger far2run.ruThis model is 2015. The 11th and 12th models have already come out, but I haven’t tried them and I don’t know if they remained the same cool or deteriorated. The Vomero 10, on the other hand, proved to be the most “hardy” of all my sneakers. I have run over 1,000 kilometers in them, which is a lot for one pair. What are good? Very soft, they are good to run long and slow crosses. Cushioning is both in the front of the shoe and in the heel - that is, the Vomero will suit both those who land on the forefoot while running and those on the heel. Speed in them is not very comfortable - too heavy. But for volumes, I definitely didn’t have anything better.
Saucony Fastwitch 8
Trusstic System is a molded element located under the central part of the sole. Provides stability, lightness, prevents twisting of the foot.
To buy Asics shoes with Trusstic System technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Seamless Construction - The shoe has a seamless construction.
To buy Asics shoes with Seamless Construction technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
3M Reflective - reflective material makes you visible at night, thereby increasing the level of safety of movement.
To buy Asics shoes with 3M Reflective technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
DuoMax Support System - Dual density midsole to support the foot and increase stability.
To buy Asics shoes with DouMax Support System technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Ahar - rubber of increased wear resistance, prolongs the life of shoes.
To buy Asics shoes with Ahar technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Racing Lasting - Block "Competition". Ideal last for competitions.
To buy Asics shoes with Racing Lasting technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Lightweight midsole provides a more comfortable and cushioned ride with better rebound. U4icX provides the most comfortable and energized run.
To buy Mizuno shoes with U4icX technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Rearfoot GEL is a special type of silicone. Its function is to absorb impact energy, thereby reducing the load on the athlete's foot, knees and spine.
To buy Asics shoes with Rearfoot GEL technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
The G3 sole is a new quality outsole element that improves traction where you need it most, reducing high impact loads by distributing it across the entire surface of the sole.
To buy Mizuno shoes with G3 sole technology, click the "Add to cart" button and place an order.
Dynamic Duomax - the evolution of the DuoMax system ® . Adds even more stability and support, as well as reduces weight.
To buy Asics shoes with Dynamic Duomax technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Dual DuoSole Outsole. Outsole construction for lightweight, flexible, traction and durability.
To buy Asics shoes with DuoSole Outsole technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Mizuno Intercool technology keeps your running and gaming shoes warm throughout your workout. The problem of excess heat and moisture accumulating in running shoes is solved by a system of ventilation channels running along the entire length of the middle part of the sole.
To buy Mizuno shoes with Intercool technology, click the "Add to cart" button and place an order.
Solyte (midsole material). Super light material (lighter than standard EVA and SpEVA). Increased cushioning and wear resistance.
To buy Asics shoes with Solyte technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Magic Sole - ventilated sole, minimizes weight, maximizes air circulation.
To buy Asics shoes with Magic Sole technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
AIRmesh is a special mesh construction that provides excellent breathability to Mizuno shoes. It allows the foot to breathe and maintains the optimal temperature inside the shoe.
To buy Mizuno shoes with AIRmesh technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
I.G.S. (Aydzhies) - impact distribution system. ASICS shoe design philosophy. Allows the athlete's foot to work in a more natural way, transforming to an individual gait and leg type.
To buy Asics shoes with I.G.S. technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
The special insert in the sole (Wave) provides excellent cushioning by distributing the shock load over the entire surface area. The stability of the technology is achieved due to the difference in levels between the outer and inner surface of the boot. This design does not allow the sole to compress in high pressure areas. Wave technology's key cushioning and stability options allow you to choose the best option for any type of run. The result is an ultra lightweight modern sports shoe for professional sports. To buy Mizuno shoes with Wave technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Wet grip rubber - rubber for traction on wet surfaces. A material made from a mixture of organic and inorganic components. Increased traction even on wet surfaces.
To buy Asics shoes with Wet grip rubber technology, click the "Add to cart" button and place an order.
Californian Slip Lasting - "California Shoe". stability and comfort. The upper is stitched and connected to the midsole.
To buy Asics shoes with Californian Slip Lasting technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Removable Socklinre - Removable insole.
To buy Asics shoes with Removable Socklinre technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place your order.
The X-10 system is made from the toughest carbon rubber available for superior wear resistance and improved traction in high impact areas, especially the heel.
To buy Mizuno shoes with X-10 technology, click the "Add to cart" button and place an order.
SpEVA midsole material. Promotes faster recovery from compression and reduces the chance of midsole breakdown.
To buy Asics shoes with SpEVA technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Heel Clutching System - exoskeleton heel counter perfects heel support.
To buy Asics shoes with Heel Clutching System technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Light AHAR Sponge is a lighter version of AHAR wear resistant rubber.
To buy Asics shoes with Light AHAR Sponge technology, click the "Add to cart" button and place an order.
Ap+ is a new and improved midsole material. Increased cushioning and a new level of comfort provide a new feeling of softness and smoothness of movement, as well as increased durability. At the same time, the weight of the new material is less than that of the material of the previous generation.
To buy Mizuno shoes with Ap+ technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL is a special type of silicone. Its function is to absorb impact energy, thereby reducing the load on the athlete's foot, knees and spine.
To buy Asics shoes with Rearfoot and Forefoot GEL technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
The Propulsion plate is a special rigid element located in the front of the sole to increase the efficiency of the repulsion.
To buy Asics shoes with Propulsion plate technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Discrete Eyestay Lacing improves fit to the top of the foot. Reduce the risk of chafing.
To buy Asics shoes with Discrete Eyestay Lacing technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Mizuno's Sozo Studio laboratory developed the SmoothRide Engineering philosophy, the next generation of high quality design footwear. SmoothRide Engineering is designed to minimize the acceleration and deceleration of the foot during various stages of running by reducing shock vibration and increasing flexibility. This allows Mizuno to create a running shoe that delivers exceptional comfort and a smooth ride. Already recognized as a leader in athletic shoe design and technology, with the introduction of SmoothRide Engineering, Mizuno is taking another step forward in delivering exceptional comfort and running performance.
To buy Mizuno shoes with Smooth Ride technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
The cushioning U4ic midsole is 30% lighter than the previous generation Ap+.
To buy Mizuno shoes with U4ic technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
The Wave insert is made from Pebax Rnew™ plant-based oils and bio-based materials that produce less carbon waste while maintaining product performance (flexibility, impact resistance, resilience) and incredible fatigue resistance. An important difference from conventional materials is the invariance of all its properties at temperatures down to -40 °C.
To buy Mizuno shoes with Pebax Rnew™ technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Revolutionary development of Sozo Studio. Extensive analysis of high-speed video footage revealed how the heel counter deforms around the heel under load, resulting in instability, slippage and injury. The DynaMotion Fit system allows the upper of the shoe to interact with the movement of the foot, which relieves stress on the ankle. The foot remains clearly fixed at any moment of movement.
To buy Mizuno shoes with DynaMotion Fit technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Premium INSOCK is a removable anatomical insole made using Ortholite technology. OrtoLite is an insole material made from polyurethane foam with an open "pore" structure. This wear-resistant material provides excellent breathability and eliminates odor by inhibiting the growth of fungus and bacteria. Advantages of the Ortholite insole: - bactericidal impregnation (prevents the formation of bacteria and odors). - a special material (polyurethane and rubber granules using the "open" element technology) provides excellent moisture removal from the foot. - Special heel cup design provides extra cushioning and greater comfort.
To buy Mizuno shoes with Premium INSOCK technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Ahar+ is an improved version of Ahar high abrasion rubber that is lighter and thinner.
To buy Asics shoes with Ahar + technology, click the "Add to cart" button and place an order.
The Guidance Line divides the sole so that it reproduces the ideal path of pressure on the foot. The athlete performs better with less fatigue and less risk of injury.
To buy Asics shoes with Guidance Line technology, click the "Add to Cart" button and place an order.
Many of us have heard this phrase: "Movement is life." How active a person is depends on his well-being and health in general. Running is one of the varieties of athletics, which gives the cardio load necessary for the body. That is why this discipline today has a massive character. Even novice athletes prefer jogging instead of other sports. But in order for the training to be more successful, it is important to choose the right shoes. The ideal option in this case is to purchase marathon shoes.
What are marathons?
Marathon shoes are a slang term for running shoes specifically designed for running. Many professional athletes have long been convinced of the convenience of such shoes. And all because the main positive characteristics of marathons are:
- Light weight. Thanks to this, the shoes are not felt on the feet, leaving the runner virtually alone with the track.
- Thin outsole. It also lightens the weight of the shoe and allows you to enjoy every centimeter of your run.
- High level of flexibility. Running shoes are made of lightweight and flexible materials, due to which the foot moves freely while running.
These are not all the distinguishing features. It can also be noted that, unlike conventional sneakers, marathon shoes have a thin sole, which has a minimal height difference between the toe and heel zones, and this makes training even easier.
How to choose the right marathon shoes?
There are many things to consider when choosing running shoes. First of all, the goal that the athlete has set for himself is of great importance. Everything is important - starting with the speed with which you plan to run, the features of the biomechanics of the foot, the length of the distance and ending with the weight of the runner.
For all its convenience, marathon running is not for everyone. The fact is that due to the light weight, thin soles and, of course, the lack of shock-absorbing elements, such shoes are considered the best option only for athletes of average configuration. The weight of the runner should not exceed 60 kg, but if the body weight is greater, when running in marathons, a large load on the foot is inevitable.
However, even athletes weighing over 80 kg can use such sneakers, but only as shoes in which high-speed or short distances will be overcome. In addition, marathon shoes do not have to be used for intensive training, they are perfect for training in the arena or stadium. If you're not a professional runner but want to get into short runs, marathons are a good choice, but they're not suitable for back roads.
What else should be considered when choosing such shoes? Despite the fact that marathon shoes are designed for light-bodied runners, the choice in their favor is not always appropriate. Each athlete has his own running technique, and it often happens that even a slender runner has great kicking power. If an athlete practicing this “hard running” is in marathons during training, the likelihood of a foot injury is high.
Since marathon shoes are lighter and thinner than classic sneakers, they are more designed for high-intensity runs, about 2-3 marathons, which equals 500-800 km of training. In such shoes, the athlete will be as easy to run as possible, as the load on the feet is reduced. As for regular running shoes, they are designed for rough work, that is, they are used exclusively for training for 1500-2000 km, and not for marathons and long runs.
If shoes are chosen for a marathon that takes place in ordinary urban conditions (the type of road is asphalt), then other types of shoes may be suitable for the race. One of the varieties of running shoes can be considered a half marathon. What are their design differences, read below.
Half marathons: how are they different from marathons?
This type of sneakers is very similar to the first option. The shoes are also lightweight, almost not felt on the feet, reduces the load on the foot when running. However, it has clear distinguishing characteristics. First of all, it is necessary to single out a sole that is thicker and more dense in material, which allows even an athlete with more weight than 60 kg to opt for half marathons. These running shoes are equipped with additional supportive details and fixation of the foot.
In fact, half marathon shoes are something between marathon shoes and classic running shoes, between lightness and a high degree of protection for the foot. Such a “hybrid” is ideal for regular workouts, but when it comes to jogging in a calm mode. Half marathons fit the foot well, are very elastic, obey the movements of the athlete.
Choice of running shoes and type of surface
If long runs, high-speed training or competitive races of 5-10 km are planned, then you need to choose shoes that are not only light, but also have good grip on the road surface. So, for example, for running on the track, marathon shoes with thin soles that provide maximum grip are best suited. The best option in this case may be Nike zoom streak lt sneakers. They are very light, weighing no more than 160 g, for additional cushioning they have a block with an extended apron and arch support in the middle part. The sole has a waffle look and is made of blown rubber.
For simple asphalt training, almost any shoe with cushioning will do. Here you need to focus more on the biomechanics of your foot. As for those who have to run on a country road (the presence of fields, ravines, a forest path), for them we recommend trail shoes with well-grooved soles for better grip. In this case, half marathons are the best option. For example, we list some popular models: Asics Gel-DS Trainer 18, Mizuno Wave Precision 13, Brooks ST 5.
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