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Best running shoes for the Boston Marathon (2026)

The Boston Marathon is a 26.2-mile point-to-point road race from Hopkinton to Boston, known for a net-downhill start that punishes quads and the late Newton hills (including Heartbreak Hill) around miles 16–21. April conditions vary widely from cold rain to unexpected heat. Look for a road shoe with good cushioning to absorb the downhills, enough responsiveness for the climbs, and race-day efficiency for those chasing a time.

1. 1
   ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo

   high cushion5mm drop173g$270
2. 2
   Saucony Endorphin Pro 5

   high cushion8mm drop206g$240

   A race-day shoe for runners chasing PRs from 5K to the marathon; the slotted carbon plate and firm, responsive foam prioritize snappy transitions over plush comfort.

3. 3
   ASICS Superblast 2

   max cushion8mm drop249g$149
4. 4
   Saucony Endorphin Elite 3

   max cushion8mm drop204g$290

   A top-tier marathon racer for runners chasing a personal best; its slotted carbon plate and high-rebound foam prioritize propulsion over everyday versatility.

5. 5
   ASICS Magic Speed 5

   high cushion7mm drop196g$180
6. 6
   HOKA Mach X 3

   high cushion5mm drop289g$250
7. 7
   Brooks Hyperion Max 3

   high cushion6mm drop281g$200
8. 8
   ASICS Superblast 3

   max cushion8mm drop238g$210

Picks are our editorial assessment of what suits this race, from each shoe's sourced specs — not a substitute for your own testing.