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Read MoreNYC MARATHON RUNNING SHOE ROUND-UP
Whether you have blazed through your first pair of training shoes or are on the hunt for a race day sneaker, the running experts at Fleet Feet have tested and reviewed the best new shoes of 2024 and left you with the top 5 picks so you can run the extra mile.
In addition to in store try-ons, personalized recommendations, and community events, Fleet Feet offers patented 3D Foot-Scanning technology to help you determine the perfect fit for your unique running style – stop by on the 2nd Floor today.
This is an adaptation of an original article by our partners at Fleet Feet. The original piece can be read here.
1. HOKA Cielo X1
Weight: 7.4 oz (W), 9.3 oz (M)
Stack height (heel/forefoot): 37 mm/30 mm (W), 39 mm/32 mm (M)
Heel-to-toe drop: 7 mm
Price: $275
Best for: Runners who like a wide, stable base
The HOKA Cielo X1 offers a dual-layer PEBA midsole that sandwiches a snappy carbon fiber plate inside, that results in “a strong rocker shape, an incredibly stiff feel and very bouncy cushioning. The combination makes it super propulsive,” per 1:18:58 half-marathon runner, Kate.
2. Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2
Weight: 6.3 oz (W), 7.6 oz (M)
Stack height (heel/forefoot): 38 mm/36.5 mm
Heel-to-toe drop: 1.5 mm
Price: $250
Best for: Runners who have high cadence and midfoot strike
The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 left the team pleasantly surprised with its extreme heel bevel and unique geometry all while delivering a lightweight, yet grippy outsole contrary to most “super shoes”. The thick, dual-layer midsole combined with a carbon-infused plate had Fleet Feet experts bouncing down the street with rave reviews.
3. New Balance SC Elite v4
Weight: 6.1 oz (W), 7.8 oz (M)
Stack height (heel/forefoot): 40 mm/36 mm
Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm
Price: $250
Best for: Runners who like a firm ride for fast efforts
While firmer than the softer and bouncier v3, the New Balance SC Elite v4 has gotten a makeover, using a new PEBAX midsole in order to increase energy return. If you enjoy a firmer ride while trying to run fast, this could be a great fit for you.
4. On Cloudboom Strike*
Weight: 6.6 oz (W), 7.6 oz (M)
Stack height (heel/forefoot): 39.5 mm/35.5 mm
Heel-to-toe drop: 4 mm
Price: $280
Best for: Runners who want to softly bounce their way to the finish line
The On Cloudboom Strike is built with On’s proprietary Helion Hyperfoam Bounceboard, which first debuted in the On Cloudmonster Hype. It’s a PEBAX®-based foam, meaning it offers exceptionally high energy return at a low weight, while the spoon-shaped carbon-fiber plate helps propel you forward towards the finish line.
*Limited in-store availability.
5. Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
Weight: 6.5 oz (W), 7.5 oz (M)
Stack height (heel/forefoot): 39.5 mm/31.5 mm
Heel-to-toe drop: 8 mm
Price: $225
Best for: Runners who like a softer ride with a higher heel-to-toe drop
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 has been upgraded with a brand new dual-cushioning system – a combination of PWRRUN PB foam and Saucony’s new PWRRUN HG (high gradient) foam, which Saucony claims to be the brand’s most energy-efficient cushioning yet. Per Fleet Feet expert, Mandy, “…it felt like I strapped rockets onto my feet. Each run was smooth, comfortable and bouncy. My legs turned over effortlessly and quickly.”
