How I test and choose the best carbon plate race day shoes for this roundup
When it comes to finding the best race day shoes, I always approach new releases with my ever critical eye and a commitment to honest, no-fluff reviews.
Every shoe featured in this roundup has been tested by me on real-world runsâeverything from speed training to simulated racing environments with longer high intensity efforts that push comfort and performance to the limit.
This hands-on approach helps me figure out which shoes can really handle running at speed, and which ones fall shortâno marketing fluff, just real insights.
Every review you read or watch on my YouTube channel reflects my personal experience with the product, based on real training, not hype. I stay objective and independentâand I want to help you find the right racing shoe for you, not just the one thatâs trending on social media.
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If you purchase gear through links in this review, I may earn a small affiliate commission. If you enjoyed this review, become a member of my site, (it's free!). -Alastair âđź
Carbon plate shoes are built for speed. Theyâre designed to help you run faster by improving energy return and propelling you forward with less effort.
Most runners use them for race day or speed-focused sessions like tempo runs or intervalsâany time you're chasing a PR or want that extra edge.
Theyâre usually expensive, lightweight, efficient, and packed with responsive foam. While not always the most durable or comfortable for easy miles, they shine when itâs go-time.
â ď¸ There are really two main types of carbon-plated race day shoes for road running
1. High-stack, ultra-cushioned marathon shoes: These prioritize a soft, bouncy, and shock-absorbing rideâideal for long distances. They tend to suit runners who prefer increasing their stride length to go faster, rather than increasing cadence.
2. Lightweight, snappier carbon-plated shoes: These are built for speed over shorter distances like 5K to half marathon, but they can also work well for marathonsâespecially if you prefer a firmer, more responsive ride. Theyâre best for runners who land more on their forefoot, run with a high cadence, light-footed style, and want the carbon plate to do more of the propulsion rather than relying on a big, bouncy midsole.
Hence why you'll notice some brands offering two different carbon plated racing shoes. With this in mind, I have separated this roundup into 2 lists, in order to help make choosing a little easier.
Best carbon-plated marathon racing shoes (max cushion, long-haul efficiency)
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 10.8oz / 306g | Drop: 7mm
The Adidas Adizero Prime X 2 Strung is a max-cushioned, carbon-plated super shoe built for marathon comfort and serious propulsion.
With a towering 50mm stack and dual plates, it delivers a soft yet springy ride that feels best at fast paces. Ideal for non-elite runners who want a bold, high-tech option to fuel long-distance racing.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 6.3oz (179g) | Drop: 5mm
The ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ Paris is a lightweight, race-ready shoe built for serious runners chasing personal bests. Its FF Blast Turbo foam and carbon plate deliver a punchy, responsive ride that shines in races and fast workouts. Ideal if you want maximum energy return without sacrificing comfort.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium to Narrow | Weight: 7.4oz (210g) | Drop: 5mm
The Diadora Gara Carbon 2 blends classic comfort with modern speed, offering a soft, cushioned landing and a snappy, responsive toe-off.
With its Anima PBX foam and carbon plate combo, itâs great for runners who want a balanced ride that feels fast but forgivingâperfect for races or uptempo training days.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.7oz / 217g | Drop: 4mm
The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 3 is built for runners who thrive on speed and donât mind an aggressive ride. With a bouncy ENERZY XP midsole and carbon plate, it delivers a snappy, forward-tipping feel thatâs best suited to mid- or forefoot strikers.
Ideal for race day or fast workouts if youâre after maximum propulsion and donât need extra stability.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium to narrow | Weight: 7.2oz / 204g | Drop: 7mm
The HOKA Cielo X1 2.0 is a race-focused shoe built for runners with an aggressive, forefoot-driven stride.
Its PEBA midsole, winged carbon plate, and sharp rocker deliver a punchy toe-off that encourages quick turnover and fast pacing. Best for those who like a forward-leaning feel and want a high-performance shoe that shines in races and speed workouts.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.2oz (204g) | Drop: 8mm (32/24mm)
The FuelCell SC Elite v5 is a plated marathon racer for runners who want comfort, stability, and a connected road feel without sacrificing long-distance cushioning.
The tuned 100% PEBA midsole and snappier carbon plate deliver a smooth, balanced ride with easy marathon-pace cruising, while the breathable FANTOMFIT mesh upper keeps feet cool in warm race conditions. More stable than many high-stack supershoes, it inspires confidence for those who like a secure platform at speed.
Key Specs: True to size, medium width, 7.1 oz (201g), 4mm drop
The Cloudboom Strike is a lightweight, cushioned marathon racer built for runners who want a fast, bouncy ride.
A thick, removable Bounceboard layer of Helion HF foam sits right on top of the carbon Speedboard, giving each stride a springy, protected sensation that stands out from more rigid race shoes.
Itâs a solid option if youâre chasing marathon PRs or long tempo efforts and want a carbon-plated shoe that blends comfort with responsiveness. Just expect to spend a little time dialing in the fit and letting the heel counter soften up before race day.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.2oz (204g) | Drop: 8mm
The Nike Alphafly 3 is built for serious speed over long distances, combining ZoomX foam, a full-length carbon plate, and Air Zoom units for explosive energy return.
Itâs ideal for half and full marathon efforts, especially if you want a responsive yet cushioned ride that feels fast without beating up your legs. A great choice for runners chasing performance without compromising on comfort.
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium with good volume | Weight: 7.2oz (204g) for a size US(M)9 | Drop: 8mm (39.5/31.5mm)
The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 is a race-day shoe built for runners who want both comfort and serious speed. With a super bouncy midsole and propulsive carbon plate, it delivers a smooth, efficient ride that feels natural when youâre pushing the pace.
Ideal for runners with a neutral stride who want to go fast without feeling overly guided or restricted.
Best carbon-plated speed racers (snappy, responsive feel for 5K to Half)
Fit: True to size | Width: Medium | Weight: 7.2oz (204g) | Drop: 8mm
Brooks improves the ride in version 5 with a lightweight, more forgiving midsole (DNA Gold) and an ARRIS carbon plate tuned for efficient transitions and snappy toe-offs. It's a stable, fast-feeling shoe ideal for high-cadence runners targeting 10K to half marathon races.
That said, a frustrating heel slippage issue and short tongue may hold it back from being a top-tier marathon pick for some runners. If youâre a midfoot striker who doesnât need a locked-in heel, itâs a fun, smooth option with plenty of pep.
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