Top 5 Best Racing Shoes of 2025

We have looked at dozens of designs to identify the best sneakers at different price points.

Are you looking for a comfortable all-arounder? An overpronation-supporting shoe? Or a fast racer breaking his own record? Everybody has different preferences when it comes to shoes.

We ran in and tested these running shoes in our lab to help you choose the perfect pair. See our selections in several categories below.

You can also scroll down to read our in-depth guide to choosing running shoes.

We are able to provide objective running shoe reviews by running in the shoes, twisting them, filling them with smoke, cutting them in two, freezing them, and doing hundreds of standardized testing in our lab.

Best racing shoes overall: nike vaporfly 4
Best daily training racing shoes: Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4
Best for Racing: saucony endorphin elite 2
Best race running shoes: hoka cielo x1 2.0
Best stability racing shoes: brooks hyperion elite 4 pb

Best racing shoes overall

nike vaporfly 4

The Nike Vaporfly 4 is a standout performer in the all-arounder category, combining remarkable comfort and reliable durability with elite-level speed. Given its constant performance in both lab and real-world road tests, it’s no surprise that it’s frequently recognized as the greatest racing shoe available.

It’s exciting to run in the Vaporfly 4. The ZoomX midsole, which is now tuned in a more sophisticated geometry that gives amazing energy return, is the standout feature. It is quick and feather-light underfoot without sacrificing cushioning, so it is appropriate for longer distances as well. According to our durometer, the foam is 41.2% softer than usual, giving you a cloud-like sensation while yet propelling you ahead with each step.

The ride seems balanced regardless of how fast the pace is set. The Vaporfly 4 offers greater stability and foot control than its predecessors thanks to a wider base and an enhanced outsole design. The shoe’s carbon plate is still a key component for propulsion, but the forefoot and heel have also gotten a little wider for better landings. It weighs just 6.9 oz (196g), making it perfect for racing, and our flex test revealed that it is 27.5% stiffer than usual, which accounts for the strong toe-off.

The Vaporfly 4’s top remained sturdy and the outsole displayed very little degradation over dozens of kilometers of tempo pace and race efforts. This demonstrates Nike’s dedication to providing race-day footwear that is both durable and performs well.

The Vaporfly 4 isn’t perfect, though. It still has trouble grabbing onto damp surfaces. Runners who frequently train in slick or rainy weather might want to think about getting a shoe with more traction.

Best daily training racing shoes

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4

With its exceptional stability and high-performance combination of speed, cushioning, and durability, the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 stands out in the all-arounder game. The Adios Pro 4 rightfully claims to be one of the best running shoes because it constantly performs admirably in both our lab testing and strenuous outdoor runs.

It is a true delight to run in these shoes. Our attention is primarily drawn to the cutting-edge dual-layer Lightstrike Pro foam with energy rods, which provides a sharp and energizing feel that is perfect for both rigorous training and race day. Its race-ready design is confirmed by our durometer testing, which show that it is 34.2% firmer than average, resulting in a forceful toe-off and faster turnover.

The midsole shape maintains stability at all speeds despite the hard ride. With a forefoot width of 7.9 mm and a heel width of 6.5 mm, the forefoot and heel offer a comfortable basis for long distances or fast-paced runs. According to our flexibility test, it is 29.8% stiffer than usual, which is consistent with its objective of maximizing energy return. With a weight of 8.5 oz (241 g) on our scales, it yet manages to remain lightweight on foot.

Following innumerable training sessions and competitions, we discovered that the Lightstrike Pro foam endures very well. Although there are a few small compression lines in the midsole, the Continental rubber-reinforced outsole is still almost perfect, demonstrating the Adios Pro 4’s strong long-term performance.

However, it’s not the ideal shoe for every situation. The traction is a little lacking on slippery or wet conditions. Runners who want constant traction on damp ground may wish to consider other solutions.

Best for Racing

saucony endorphin elite 2

With its remarkable blend of performance, comfort, and speed, the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a strong contender in the all-around running shoe market. It is unique for athletes who require responsiveness and long-lasting durability in their footwear because of its design, which aims to create a dynamic yet cushioned ride.

The Endorphin Elite 2’s PWRRUNPB midsole, which offers the ideal balance of cushioning and energy return, is one of its distinguishing characteristics. With a midsole that offers 39% more energy return than prior versions, this shoe’s special composition provides a comfortable yet responsive ride. This shoe is excellent at giving you that extra push when you need it most, whether you’re running long distances or sprinting quickly.

Where the Endorphin Elite 2 really excels is in its steadiness and versatility. The shoe ensures a seamless transition between foot strikes and offers stable support for each step thanks to its extra 6 mm drop and 35.4 mm heel stack height. But comfort isn’t the only factor. The shoe is perfect for both race days and regular training because of its lightweight design, which allows you to retain speed without feeling slowed down. It weighs only 7.8 oz (221g).

The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a durable product that can withstand heavy use. After several runs on a variety of surfaces, the outsole exhibits very little wear, proving its durability over time. Like most running shoes, it performs best on dry roads, but it may have trouble on wet pavement when traction is essential.

All things considered, the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a highly versatile shoe with a focus on performance. For both recreational runners and competitive athletes, it provides outstanding energy return, strong stability, and durability. On the other hand, people who value grip on slick surfaces may find themselves looking for alternatives.

Best race running shoes

hoka cielo x1 2.0

The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is a remarkable all-arounder that ranks among the best running shoes on the market right now thanks to its exceptional combination of comfort, stability, and responsiveness. It is notable for providing a high degree of plushness while preserving the performance and longevity you would anticipate from a well-known brand like Hoka.

The incredibly soft 39/33 mm midsole of the Cielo X1 2.0 is one of its primary distinguishing characteristics. Its responsiveness makes it adaptable for speedier runs, and its ample cushioning makes for an exceptionally comfortable ride over extended distances. Its cushy sensation underfoot was evident from our tests, which revealed a 36.5% softer durometer rating than the standard.

Even with the mild cushioning, the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 keeps a responsive and steady ride. The shoe offers exceptional stability with every stride, guaranteeing a stable landing regardless of foot strike, thanks to an additional 7.5/6.2 mm of width at the forefoot and heel. Its overall performance is further improved by its flexibility, which scored 30.4% more adaptive than the typical running shoe. It is extremely lightweight, weighing only 8.7 oz (246g), which makes it perfect for both everyday training and race day.

We observed little wear on the midsole and little damage to the outsole after multiple long runs on both pavement and trail surfaces. This demonstrates the Cielo X1 2.0’s longevity and makes it a dependable companion for many miles.

The Cielo X1 2.0 performs quite well and is comfortable, however it has trouble on slippery, wet roads. Because of its less forceful traction, it is less appropriate for wet weather. On slick roads, runners who desire the finest grip might wish to search for an alternative.

Although it’s not the greatest option for people who require exceptional traction on damp ground, the Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is an all-around reliable, comfortable, and long-lasting alternative that keeps performing well in a range of circumstances.

Best stability racing shoes

brooks hyperion elite 4 pb

For runners looking for an all-around performer that combines durability, comfort, and speed, the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB is revolutionary. This shoe elevates the game with its creative design, providing a remarkable mix between stability and responsiveness while maintaining a light feel for long-distance running.

The Hyperion Elite 4 PB’s innovative midsole is among its most noteworthy features. Propelium, the substance used in this sneaker, improves cushioning without compromising speed. According to our testing, it is 27.3% softer than conventional midsoles, offering a responsive yet plush feel that effectively absorbs shock while preserving an explosive bounce with every step.

The main selling point of this shoe is its comfort. You’ll want to put in more miles with the Hyperion Elite 4 PB’s extremely supportive and cushioned ride. It is an excellent option for both long runs and sprints because of the dynamic midsole, which enables seamless transitions from heel to toe. With its incredibly light weight of 7.8 oz (221g), you’ll feel quick and light while enduring the most demanding workouts.

Whether the surface is dry or wet, the outsole works remarkably well. It operates dependably on wet roads, offering sufficient grip to guarantee your safety during your runs, even though it doesn’t provide as much traction on slick conditions as certain trail shoes. Additionally, despite being tested on a variety of terrains, the shoe still shows very little damage, demonstrating its exceptional resilience.

To sum up, the Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 PB is a serious candidate for first place since it offers a thrilling blend of durability, speed, and comfort. For runners who value a responsive and dynamic experience but yet require strong durability over the course of their miles, this is the ideal option.