The 7 Best Carbon-Plated Shoes We Can’t Wait to Race at Our Next Marathon
Runner's World
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article highlights the top seven carbon-plated running shoes designed for marathon racing, focusing on their innovative features and performance benefits. These shoes are engineered to enhance speed, comfort, and energy return, making them ideal for serious runners aiming to achieve personal records. The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1 and Asics Metaspeed Edge Tokyo are standout models, each offering unique advantages tailored to different running styles and preferences.
The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro series, particularly the Pro 4, is praised for its lightweight design (weighing just 7 ounces for men and 6.1 ounces for women) and a rocker point curvature of 60 degrees, which reduces force during long races. Its Lightstrike Pro foam provides exceptional energy return and softness underfoot, while the added toe patch enhances pushoff. Trevor Conde, a marathon runner with a 2:21 PR, compares the shoe to the Nike Alphafly for its cushioning but notes it aligns more closely with the Nike Vaporfly in terms of design and weight.
The Asics Metaspeed Edge Tokyo is another top contender, designed for cadence runners with shorter strides. It features a scooped plate tilted downward, offering flexibility and snap at toe-off. Despite its lightweight construction (6 ounces for men, 4.6 ounces for women), the shoe’s firm cushioning can lead to post-race soreness for those with heavy footfalls. Its simplicity and power make it a favorite among competitive runners seeking an edge in races.
These shoes are part of a broader trend in running footwear that prioritizes performance and customization. With options like the Hoka Tecton X 3 and others, serious marathoners have access to a variety of high-tech, lightweight trainers
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Originally published on Runner's World on 2/19/2026