Long distance track shoes are often used for the 5,000m and 10,000m races, these are the longest distance races that are performed on a track with spiked shoes. Longer distances such as half marathons are performed on roads or cross country, where spikes would be disadvantageous. So when we talk about the best long distance track shoes, be aware that these are the distances that we are talking about.
Long distance track shoes differ from sprinters track shoes in that they are less flexible and use a stiffer spike plate, this is due to the increased pressure placed on them during the highly intense sprint. The sprint track shoe is designed for running up on your toes and therefore has no cushioning around the heel, whereas a track shoe designed for longer distances will place more emphasis on comfort particularly around the heel.
There is some debate as to whether long distance races require spikes or not, with many racers opting for flats. At distances above 5,000m it comes down to personal preference, but remember that spikes aren’t about how far you run, but how fast. If you are a faster runner, then spikes may be a better idea – as they can handle the force placed through them better.
In this guide we will be taking a look at five of the best long distance track shoes that are available to buy at the moment. We will compare durability price, style, and we will mention which long distance race that they suit.
| Name | Durability | Distance | Price | Style | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puma Evospeed Star V4 Sneaker | 4/5 | All | 5/5 | 4/5 | 13/15 |
| Adidas Performance Men’s Distancestar Running Shoe | 5/5 | 5-10km | 4/5 | 3/5 | 12/15 |
| New Balance Men's Long Distance 5k V7 Running Shoe | 5/5 | 5km | 3/5 | 5/5 | 13/15 |
| Saucony Men’s Endorphin Track Spike Racing Shoe | 3/5 | 5km | 5/5 | 4/5 | 12/15 |
| Asics Men’s Cosmoracer LD Track Shoe | 4/5 | 5-10km | 5/5 | 3/5 | 12/15 |
Best Long Distance Track Shoes #1: Puma Evospeed Star V4 Sneaker
The first shoe we are going to look at is the Evospeed Star V4 Sneaker, this is not specifically a long distance running shoe, but it is an all-round shoe. Designed to work for sprinting, hurdling, and also the longer distance races. This is great for anyone who participates in multiple events, but it will also be great for longer distance runners, as it will still have the cushioning round the heel. This is a nice, inexpensive, all-round shoe that would really suit multiple-distance racers.
The upper is lightweight and breathable and no stitching around it, the interior is soft and again uses a breathable mesh, the shoe is very light with a rubber heel and six spikes around the toes.
Best Long Distance Track Shoes #2: Adidas Performance Men’s Distancestar Running Shoe
This is a really good long distance track shoe, perfect for 5,000 or 10,000m races. Adidas have placed a lot of emphasis on comfort, with extra padding in the midsole and heel. The toecap is seamless which increases the durability. There are five spikes at the front of the shoe, but they are removable, so if you wanted to run the 10,000m in flats that would be an option.
Aesthetically the shoes are okay, not great to look at – which is unusual for Adidas, but let’s face it, if you were worrying about aesthetics you’d be wearing flats! The extra comfort that the shoes provide will more than make up for their looks. Particularly around the mid sole. These shoes are made to last, and their durability is impressive. The heel is quite thick for running spikes, but that will really suit the 10km racer. Definitely worth trying.
Best Long Distance Track Shoes #3: New Balance Men’s Long Distance 5k V7 Running Shoe
The New Balance long distance V7 running shoe is excellently designed for long distance running. It is very lightweight, made from very breathable material, and has four strategically placed spikes that help with grip and traction.
The design is breathtaking, with a very aesthetically pleasing look. The white running shoe is a particularly good model. The shoe uses a sock-like upper, that will fit your foot like a glove. The collar is cleverly designed too. The shoe also has excellent drainage, making it a good choice for steeplechase races.
This shoe will really suit long distance running, particularly in hot conditions, where its drainage and breathability will help you to run in maximum comfort.
Best Long Distance Track Shoes #4: Saucony Men’s Endorphin Track Spike Racing Shoe
These are great for a fast 5km race, but can also be used for a 10k. They are definitely designed for faster runners – and are described as multi-event spikes by Saucony. The shoes have a great spike plate, with four spikes around the front. The heel is flat with a small cushion, it would be a little light for running longer distances than 10k, but the reduced weight will really help you run faster during 5k races.
Saucony are a really respected sprint shoe maker, and these more versatile – longer distance shoes will really be enjoyed by anyone looking to run fast times during a 5 or 10k race. If you are looking for a pair of spiked shoes that can help you run really fast over middle and long distances, then these are the shoes for you. They are very lightweight but also provide more comfort and flexibility than a standard set of spikes.
Best Long Distance Track Shoes #5: Asics Men’s Cosmoracer LD Track Shoe
This last shoe is different to the others, it still contains spikes but whereas the other shoes are basically sprinter’s spikes that have been developed for longer distances, these are running shoes that have been developed to include spikes. This means that they will be as comfortable as regular running flats, but they offer four well placed spikes at the front of the shoe and a nice flat heel.
The cushion is much bigger than any of the other shoes that we have reviewed, almost as big as some of the cushions in regular running shoes. The spike plate is very flexible, which will really help keep your running gait as perfect as possible. The outer is made of a breathable mesh, like the other shoes, but it is less noticeable. The mesh is so finely knitted together that you’d think it was just a regular shoe at first.
These shoes are definitely best used by 10km runners, and people who prioritise a comfortable run over a fast one. That doesn’t mean that you can’t run fast in them, it just means that you’re more likely to enjoy the race while wearing them.
Final Thoughts
We have reviewed five very different versions of long distance track shoes, the Puma Evospeed is a nice all rounder that can be used for any track and field event. The Adidas Distancestar is an out and out long distance running shoe that would suit 10km races really well, while the New Balance V7 is perfect for middle to long distance running in hot conditions.
The Saucony Men’s Endorphin shoes are really nice looking track shoes that will favour fast runners, while the Asics Cosmoracer is the perfect running shoe for 10km runners who would rather run in comfort (and with the traction required) than sprint as fast as possible.
Serious runners who want the best 5km times possible should consider either the New Balance V7 or that Saucony Endorphin. 10km runners who want a fast time should look at the Distancestar, while 10km runners who prefer comfort should look at the Cosmoracer. The Puma Evospeed is perfect for anyone who wants to perform multiple distances at a fast pace.
