The Best Carbon Plate Running Super Shoes of 2025

Whether you're running a full or half marathon or, incredibly enough, even down to a 5K, when it comes to which shoes to lace up on race day, for most of us it's carbon fiber or bust. With differing running styles and personal preferences, there is no one best marathon racing shoe for everyone. As runners, we may prefer a softer underfoot experience, a specific rockered geometry, the most comfortable option, or simply the lightest, fastest racing weapon. Due to the seemingly insatiable demand (including ourselves!) for carbon fiber plate technology in running footwear, most top running brands have responded by crafting their own carbon-plated race day and daily training super shoes. With such an incredible array of options, it can be hard to decide on the right one, especially given the premium price tag that comes with these high-performance shoes. We're here to help! Below is our comprehensive runner's guide to the best carbon-plated footwear on the market, including links to our expert reviews to help you choose the right carbon plate shoe for you. Whether you're aiming to shave minutes off your marathon time or just want to add some pep to your training runs, there's a carbon-plated shoe here that could make a real difference.

For a detailed explanation of how we test shoes and why you should trust our recommendations, read about our running shoe testing methodology.

Our Top Picks for Best Carbon Plated Running Shoes of 2025

• Best Overall Carbon Plated Shoes for Marathon Racing Nike Vaporfly Next% 3
• Best Carbon Plated Shoes for Beginner Marathoners HOKA Skyward X
• Most Affordable Carbon Plated Racing Shoes ASICS Magic Speed 4
• Best Carbon Plated Racing Shoes for Wide Feet New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4
• Best Carbon Plated Racing Shoes for Shorter Distance Versatility ASICS METASPEED Sky/Edge Paris
• Best Carbon Plated Daily Training Shoes New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3
• Best Carbon Plated Trail Racing Shoes adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra

Why our experts like it: Well, where do we begin? Nike has the magic touch when it comes to the design and build of a super shoe. Since its podium-dominating prototype at the 2016 Olympic marathon, the Vaporfly has deservedly been entrenched as one of our best sellers since its initial public release in 2017. We are fans of Nike's industry-leading ZoomX foam midsole and stiff carbon Flyplate, which delivers an ultra-responsive and highly efficient ride that keeps our legs feeling fast and fresh for the entirety of a marathon. With 2 mm more foam underfoot, this latest version feels more comfortable and resilient than ever, and the new convex shape of the midsole offers improved stability and more energy return, working with the carbon plate to propel you forward. We recommend the Vaporfly Next% as a tried-and-true marathon racer and an excellent choice for race day.

Pros: Unbelievably lightweight, super responsive midsole with snappy plate, breathable upper with race-ready lockdown

Cons: Tongue is not gusseted

Team Thoughts: “The Nike Vaporfly has been my exclusive road-racing shoe since I received my first pair in 2017. I prefer the Vaporfly over several other shoes because it feels very nimble for a max stack height shoe and has an aggressive overall feel. Not only does the Vaporlfy Next% 3 feel more efficient, but it also feels more stable. On foot, ZoomX still feels just as protective and bouncy as ever. The specs alone are category-leading, and once you get the shoe on foot, you will understand what the hype is about. I recommend the Vaporfly as a fantastic option that will get you to your next race-day PR.” Connor, Web Content Editor

Why our experts like it: We've seen the Adios Pro 3 permanently perched atop podiums worldwide for years, not just as the equal of Nike's offerings but quite often as their superior. In a world where the carbon fiber plate is king, adidas is like your confidently cool friend who is perfectly comfortable doing their own thing. Rather than going mainstream with a carbon fiber plate, the Adios Pro 3 features carbon fiber tubes, named Energy Rods 2.0, that extend throughout the shoe to stabilize the highly cushioned and responsive Lightstrike Pro foam while also providing adaptability for a more natural foot movement. We appreciate how the Rods maximize efficiency through the gait cycle and offer a bouncy snap at toe-off. Furthermore, we noticed the protection provided by the Lightstrike Pro foam makes it easy to hold a marathon pace.

Pros: Super bouncy Lightstrike PRO midsole, breathable and secure upper

Cons: Upper not very supple, increased weight from previous iteration

Team Thoughts: "This is my absolute go-to favorite super shoe. Of course, it's for marathons, but I've even used it enjoyably for a 5K road race and a track workout (where I usually favor the Takumi Sen). I'm in love with the quality and the feeling of the propulsive and durable Lightstrike Pro foam in the Adios Pro 3." Loucas, Web Content Editor

For first-time marathoners whose primary goal is to cross the finish line on two feet, we recommend prioritizing comfort and protection over speed. However, this isn't to say that speed should be left completely at the door. There are several great options on the market that strike a fantastic balance between comfort and speed, making them perfect options for a first-time marathoner.

Why our experts like it: Running 26.2 miles is no easy task, so for novice athletes and beginner runners, we recommend getting a shoe that delivers high levels of comfort and cushioning. Our top pick that fits this definition is the HOKA Skyward X, a shoe with all the bells and whistles of an elite-level racing shoe but in an extremely comfortable package. The Skyward X features a whopping 49 mm of cushioning under the heel and 44 mm in the forefoot, making it one of the most highly cushioned shoes on the market in any category. But despite the super maxed-out stack, this shoe is still very stable thanks to its wide base underfoot and a bridged carbon plate to steady your heel-to-toe transitions. We found this shoe irresistible as it quickly became a staff favorite. It is not very often that one of our testers gives a shoe a perfect score, and it is even more surprising when multiple reviewers agree on a 10 out of 10 overall score, but that is exactly what the HOKA Skyward X has accomplished with its unique underfoot feel and impressive performance. It's a shoe we feel confident about as a fantastic option for beginner marathoners.

Pros: Plush cushioning, exceptional underfoot protection, stable, comfortable fit

Cons: Could be a bit lighter, not for very fast efforts

Team Thoughts: "The Skyward X is the highest stacked shoe I have ever tested, but to my surprise, I never felt unstable in it thanks to its wide base. More than anything, I appreciated the level of protection delivered by the shoe's midsole. I felt confident with the outsole and had no issues with grip while running on the roads. I appreciated the softness and breathability of the flat knit upper. It felt like the shoe was made of premium materials, delivering comfort consistently throughout the testing period. I experienced no irritation and easily got a secure lockdown, allowing me to keep my focus on my run, which is always appreciated." Risa, Web Content Editor

Why our experts like it: Another great option for beginner marathoners is the HOKA Cielo X1, a super shoe that's as comfortable as a racing shoe can get with the tech to get you up to speed fast and efficiently. We measured the heel stack of this shoe at about 46 mm (NOTE: despite our measurement, this shoe has been deemed legal for pros to race in, according to World Athletics), which makes it feel even more cushioned and protective than almost all of its competitors. After putting in the miles, we can say that the HOKA Cielo X1 represents one of the more comfortable marathon racing shoes we've had the pleasure of testing.

Pros: Smooth and efficient ride, incredibly protective midsole cushioning, comfortable fit

Cons: Heavier than most other options

Team Thoughts: "I loved the midsole of this shoe! From my initial step in, the Cielo X1 felt soft and bouncy underfoot with a pronounced rocker that promotes a forward roll. While running, the X1 was incredibly efficient, providing ultra-smooth transitions with a responsive toe-off. Regardless of the distance, I always felt super protected. The upper was surprisingly comfortable, especially for a marathon racing shoe. There was a secure hold through the midfoot with plenty of space in the forefoot for toe splay, and I never had any points of irritation when wearing this shoe. The HOKA Cielo X1 is a truly impressive shoe that I am more than happy to recommend to less experienced runners taking on their first marathon or marathon racers who prioritize comfort a touch more than speed." Kaleb, Web Content Editor

Why our experts like it: In a class all by itself, the ASICS Magic Speed 4 deserves all the shine as our top pick for the most affordable category. We appreciate how the Magic Speed 4 is more cushioned and more responsive than ever before, thanks to the FF TURBO layer inside the FF BLAST+ midsole. With its efficient design, the shoe offers you a balance of comfort and responsiveness that performs well in a variety of workouts and races. The best part? You get all of this for the amazing price point of $170, a win-win!

Pros: Fast, versatile, and light, carbon-plated benefits without breaking the bank

Cons: May be too aggressive for some runners

Team Thoughts: "As someone who has been running with the ASICS Magic Speed series since 2021, I can confidently say that the Magic Speed 4 is my favorite version. The midsole is highly efficient, transitioning quickly from heel to toe while delivering a nice extra snap at toe-off. The additional protective underfoot gives the Magic Speed a new level of versatility to attack longer uptempo efforts. I am a fan of ASICS GRIP rubber outsole; they have never let me down and consistently provide good traction that compliments fast paces. The fit of the Magic Speed 4 is another aspect that impresses me; it comfortably wraps around my average-sized foot, providing a secure midfoot hold crucial for any speed-focused shoe." Kaleb, Web Content Editor

Why our experts like it: If you're looking for a race day shoe with extra wide availability (2E!), the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 delivers that and much more. With an aggressive toe spring, responsive FuelCell foam in the midsole, and curved carbon fiber plate, the SC Elite v4 emerges as our top-tier choice for runners seeking pinnacle comfort, fit, and performance for their next race. The latest iteration has been redesigned from top to bottom to be faster, softer, and more cushioned than before to help you shave minutes off your time. As the pinnacle model of the SuperComp family, the New Balance SC Elite v4 provides high levels of cushioning and energy return to help all of us crush our next PR.

Pros: Lightweight, breathable, and secure upper, balance of comfort and speed, bouncier foam, accommodating fit, stylish aesthetic

Cons: Expensive

Team Thoughts: "The upper of this shoe provides a very secure wrap through the midfoot while providing a comfortably spacious forefoot, making it perfect for long-distance efforts. I had no points of irritation, hot spots, or blistering. Though the upper has drastically improved, the highlight of the New Balance SuperComp Elite v4 is the 100% PEBA midsole. Version 4 feels much faster and better suited for race day thanks to the updates to the midsole geometry, foam composition, and embedded carbon plate, all of which translate to an efficiently fast ride with a nice pop at toe-off. The latest iteration takes the speed to the next level, and if you are running a marathon race this year, then the SuperComp Elite v4 should be on your radar." Kaleb, Web Content Editor

For shorter race distances ranging from 5K to a half-marathon, it's all about finding the fastest, lightest, most aggressive racing option - ideally, one that feels stable and intuitive for tight cornering at higher speeds. While our picks are still just as comfortable as their fellow elite echelon peers, comfort isn't the TOP priority since we won't be on our feet for as long. Our favorite shorter-distance racing shoes have minimal uppers, innovative geometries, premium foams, and... of course, carbon plates. While our picks in this category undoubtedly fit well within the Best Overall Marathon Racing category, we find that they shine particularly brighter than the competition for shorter distance races.

Why our experts like it: ASICS is on top of its game with the METASPEED racing series. They've taken a unique approach with two nearly identical carbon-plated racers but with slightly different plate geometries: one for long-striding runners with the plate positioned closer to the foot to maximize foam compression and energy return (Sky Paris), and the other for quick-footed cadence runners with a lower and more angled plate position for a more efficient toe-off (Edge Paris). Both shoes feature a high stack of exceptionally resilient FF TURBO PLUS that unlocks a truly magical on-foot experience. Furthermore, the high stack of foam offers optimal protection while still being incredibly lightweight—a combination that's music to our ears. Thanks to their supremely lightweight composition and aggressive geometry, we found both options well-suited for shorter race distances and full marathons.

Pros: Exceptionally lightweight, energetic ride, race-ready fit

Cons: Foam is on the firmer side

Team Thoughts: "I found myself running faster than other super shoes in the METASPEED Sky Paris. It has a perfect race upper, is super lightweight, and gave me a secure lockdown (with no friction or irritation). The lighter weight matters when you are trying to hit those faster paces, and the aggressive plate and firmer foam contributed to speed as well. I recommend the Sky Paris as an excellent race-day option for someone who prefers shoes that are not super soft and someone with standard to narrow feet. If faster times are a top priority for you, the METASPEED Sky Paris should be a top contender." Risa, Web Content Editor

In recent years, we've seen the premium technologies of super shoes become gleefully incorporated into daily training running shoes, creating a category of shoes called "super trainers," many of which have become established on our Best Sellers lists. These inventive running shoes are engineered to broaden the range of runners who can enjoy the efficiency benefits of carbon-plated racing shoes by incorporating these technologies into more comfortable and accommodating packages. While we recommend slowly transitioning into carbon-plated trainers to get accustomed and avoid potential injury, these shoes offer more comfort-oriented features and adaptable fits than other carbon-plated shoes and bring the benefits of carbon fiber running shoes to your everyday runs. We're still somewhat in the earlier stages of super trainers, but there's already a plethora of excellent options that make running faster for longer feel easier than ever.

Why our experts like it: If you are an experienced runner searching for a super trainer to elevate your running game, the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainer v3 is a compelling choice. A best seller with wide-width availability, the New SuperComp Trainer v3 delivers highly efficient ride and premium technology. With its new supercritical PEBA-blend FuelCell midsole and carbon-plated EnergyArc, the SC Trainer v3 has a race-day feel underfoot. Given its transformative upgrade, we recommend this shoe for speed workouts, uptempo runs, and racing scenarios.

Pros: Efficient and responsive ride, comfortable and secure fit, updated midsole is more inherently stable

Cons: Aggressive midsole plate and firmness may not be for everyone

Team Thoughts: "The more aggressive underfoot experience offered by version 3 may not be suited for everyone, though it has helped the SuperComp Trainer become a true speed-oriented super trainer that complements its fellow FuelCell counterparts much better. The SC Trainer is an excellent option for speed training and long mileage at uptempo paces, and ultimately, it's better suited for advanced runners preparing for their next race. One thing is for sure: if you want a speedy super trainer to complement your shoe rotation, then the SuperComp Trainer v3 is primed for your needs." Kaleb, Web Content Editor

Why our experts like it: The Neo Vista has put Mizuno back on the map! We love this super trainer for its smooth balance of comfort and bounciness. Coming in with over 50 mm of midsole cushioning in the rearfoot, the Neo Vista is one of the most cushioned options on the market, offering long-lasting comfort and protection that really comes in handy when we're racking up the miles. With that much cushioning, you might guess it would be too heavy to pick up the pace—think again! The Wave plate (technically not carbon, but performance Rilsan Nylon) brings the midsole to life, and with the efficient rockered design, you'll get through your foot transitions effortlessly. The combination of softness and energy offered by the Mizuno Neo Vista embodies exactly what we love in a super trainer.

Pros: Secure fit, soft and bouncy ride, versatility

Cons: Not for very fast efforts

Team Thoughts: "This shoe delivers on every front with its innovative design and thoughtful construction. The upper provides a snug and secure fit, eliminating irritation and annoying lace adjustments, and the midsole offers an exquisite balance of protection and efficient performance out on the roads. I was surprised by how inherently stable the Neo Vista was, given the shoe's impressively high stack. Despite its generous cushioning, the Neo Vista remains surprisingly light on the feet, making it ideal for daily training, long-distance runs, and uptempo workouts. The outsole grips well on various surfaces, giving me confidence with each stride. Overall, this shoe is a game-changer for Mizuno, and the Neo Vista is an early consideration for one of the best trainers of 2024. Whether you are a seasoned runner or just starting your running journey, the Mizuno Neo Vista is a must-have addition to your gear lineup." Kaleb, Web Content Editor

With the growing popularity and proven performance benefits of carbon-plated road shoes, it was only a matter of time before the hype made its way to the trails. 2024 proved to be THE year of next-level trail supershoes that broke through and (finally?) put all the elements together in superior ways. Here are the top trail running shoes with carbon fiber plates.

Why our experts like it: As our Running Warehouse's top seller in the fast/race trail category for the year thus far, with numbers rivaling even the top of the All Around daily trainer trail champs, the Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra's special sauce lies in its cutting-edge midsole. Featuring Lightstrike Pro Foam, this innovative midsole ensures a secure, feather-light feel while also delivering exceptional responsiveness, crucial for conquering long, grueling miles. While our rebellious friend doesn't have a carbon plate, the adidas Agravic Speed Ultra creates its own type of cool with its race-winning technology. Whether tackling ultramarathon weekend adventures or speeding through a trail race course, we recommend the adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra as the ultimate companion for runners seeking top-notch speed, agility, and endurance to conquer any trail.

Pros: Highly propulsive, soft and secure underfoot protection, secure fit, lightweight feel

Cons: Narrow midfoot may be limiting for some

Team Thoughts: "After years of testing a variety of trail shoes and trail racers, this is the first "super shoe" for the trails that provides the racing shoe experience I find when wearing road super shoes. The shoe comes alive when the gun goes off. Regardless of terrain (including pavement), the miles always zoomed by when I was wearing the Speed Ultra. My first test run was going to be a casual 30-minute jaunt so that I could get a general feel for the shoe. One speedy hour later, I was in love with the experience the shoe provided underfoot. Overall, the Agravic Speed Ultra delivers on fit, feel, and performance." - Erik, Running Warehouse Lead Footwear Buyer

Why our experts like it: We knew this absolute beauty, the HOKA Tecton X 3, was coming for a while as we witnessed its prototypes set multiple prestigious course records on the feet of some of the world's greatest trail racers. Its component list reads like our wildest-dreams wish list come true: full PEBA superfoam, parallel carbon plates, aggressive Vibram Megagrip Traction Lugs, and a (mostly) Matryx upper. The recipe of a thick helping of soft and bouncy foam, highly capable technical lugs, and the buttery smooth and stretchy tongue/gaiter makes this shoe feel supremely comfortable and effective at all paces. Whether power hiking or maintaining top speed, or when climbing, descending, or blistering the flats, we love the performance and surprising comfort of the Tecton X 3.

Pros: Responsiveness, comfort, integrated gaiter and tongue, outsole grip

Cons: Expensive, may benefit from more heel cup structure

Team Thoughts: "The lugs on the Tecton X 3 are the perfect depth, shape, size, and spacing for incredibly versatile usage. There is plenty of burliness to be highly technically capable, yet it still feels eminently runnable. While it lacked the preferred lateral stability for me, that will be a non-issue for many others. EVERYTHING else about this shoe is truly phenomenal. The fit, feel, experience, comfort, components, and performance are all top-notch." Loucas, Web Content Editor

1. Are carbon fiber running shoes OK for beginners?

Carbon plate shoes are generally for everybody who wants extra energy and efficiency from their shoes, either for going as fast as possible or making running feel a bit easier. These shoes are mostly geared toward longer distances and marathoners, but you don't have to be a prototypical elite to enjoy them. Especially with super trainers, there's no reason that "casual joggers" can't use and love plated shoes for training and racing.

Having said that, the stiffer the plate and shoes are, the more force (or speed) is required to properly flex them and get the full benefit. If you're trying carbon-plated shoes for the first time, we suggest gradually easing into them, once or twice a week, on relatively shorter runs until you get used to them. We also recommend avoiding doing ALL of your training in plated stiff shoes, so it's a good idea to have a non-plated daily trainer in your rotation too.

3. What are carbon-plated shoes and how do they work?

Carbon-plated running shoes have at least one thin carbon fiber plate (or multiple plates, or rods) embedded in the midsole foam of the shoe. This plate is usually full-length and works alongside the foam to act like a springboard at toe-off to propel the wearer forward. When that propulsion technology is combined with speed, runners experience an increase in running efficiency, which leads to faster times. And in a sport where every second counts, any advantage is sought after. Therefore, carbon plate shoes have become immensely popular in the running community and can be widely seen in any race.

As a bonus, while it almost certainly has more to do with the foam than the plate, running in well-cushioned super shoes typically has a positive effect on recovery times as well. We notice that we feel better or fresher sooner than we would have after a similar run in non-super shoes.

4. What should I look for when buying carbon-plated shoes?

As with all shoes, we want you to find what fits and feels best for you. Racing shoes don't prioritize comfort like daily trainers do, and they often (but not always) have a tighter, stiffer, less padded upper construction. Think about your goals and the running experience you're seeking. We welcome you to contact us by live chat, email, or phone to help guide you to the best, well-informed decision for yourself.

5. Are there any drawbacks to wearing carbon-plated shoes?

We know the appeal and benefits are undeniable, but many carbon plate shoes can feel a bit uncomfortable, unstable, or even a little jarring, especially as you're first getting used to them. It’s important to pay attention, listen to your body, and consult a professional if you have concerns or experience any discomfort.

6. Can I use carbon-plated shoes for races of all distances?

Yes, many runners use shoes with carbon fiber technology for everything from 5Ks to marathons and ultramarathons. Of course, there are even carbon-plated super spikes for the track. However, the time and efficiency benefits will be most significant in longer races, where small percentage savings can add to bigger overall reductions in time and energy expenditure. Often, the tallest bounciest super shoes can feel unstable for tight cornering and turnaround points, especially when running at faster speeds, so many runners still prefer traditional "flats," or at least moderate-stacked super shoes, for shorter races like 5Ks and 10Ks.

7. Do I need to change my running form when using carbon-plated shoes?

No, you don't need to consciously overhaul your running form or foot strike, but you might discover that you'll naturally make subtle adjustments due to the bounciness and propulsion of many carbon fiber shoes. We always recommend paying attention to how your body feels and adjust accordingly.

8. What are some common misconceptions about carbon-plated running shoes?

Some common misconceptions are that carbon plate shoes are only for elite runners or that they'll magically make running easier by a massive degree. In reality, when it comes to improving performance and the experience of running, carbon plate shoes can benefit runners across a broad range of expertise and ability levels.

9. How much faster are carbon plate running shoes?

Research is still developing on the efficiency of carbon-plated shoes. There have been ongoing scientific studies showing improved running economy, approximately yielding 2-6% (reflected in the name of the original Vaporfly 4%). While experts are quick to point out that efficiency gains don't necessarily yield a guaranteed equal reduction in finishing time, many analyses have found that average finishing times have decreased by roughly 2%, and multiple world records have been smashed in carbon plate racing super shoes.

Dustin Joubert, an assistant professor of Kinesiology at St. Edward's University in Austin Texas has led multiple studies showing improvements in running economy for elite runners trying carbon-plated shoes out on treadmills. In one of his studies, he had 12 runners try the shoes on a treadmill for five minutes at a time, running at a pace of about six minutes per mile. The result was that on average, carbon-plated shoes increased the running economy of the athletes by around 2.5 percent.

Generally, these gains can benefit elite professionals more than everyday runners, likely due to the greater speeds and forces involved. However, let's say you're chasing a sub-5 or sub-4-hour marathon performance. If you're currently at a 5-hour pace, even a 0.5% speed improvement would save 1.5 minutes to get you comfortably under that barrier. Likewise, at a 4-hour pace, a 1.0% improvement would save nearly 2.5 minutes!

You don't need to be a professional or an elite runner to experience the benefits of running in carbon-plated shoes. Everyday runners are feeling the benefits as well. While most carbon-plated shoes are best suited for committed runners who want to run fast and prioritize finishing times, they can still provide significant efficiency gains to casual runners across a wide range of paces and experience levels.

We've put the carbon plate shoes on our list through the ringer and hope this guide has helped you narrow down your selection. Remember, the best shoe for you will depend on your individual running style, foot shape, and race distance preferences! For more footwear insights, check out our article: Are Super Shoes for Everyone? Happy running, and cheers to your next PR!