The best running shoes for speed training

Best for runners seeking propulsive plate performance without comprising daily-trainer comfort

Runners seeking race-day performance in a daily training shoe will appreciate the Kinvara Pro. Saucony uses a ¾-length carbon plate that’s sandwiched between a PWRRUN PB foam layer on top and a PWRRUN layer below the midsole plate. The result is exceptional cushioning without comprising the responsive and fast ride runners demand during faster training runs and races. The addition of SPEEDROLL construction encourages a smoother heel-to-toe transition. For the upper, Saucony has spec’d a tried-and-true engineered mesh that hugs your foot and is surprisingly breathable. It’s worth noting that the Kinvara Pro lacks a separate rubber outsole, resulting in lighter weight at the expense of faster sole wear. Finally, for those who like numbers, the shoe measures 42 mm in the heel and 34 mm in the forefoot, resulting in an 8 mm drop.

Best for runners seeking a responsive, cushioned shoe for fast workouts and longer runs

The new Hyperion Max 2 manages to hit a compelling running sweet spot by delivering enough responsiveness and propulsion for fast workouts while retaining the cushioning necessary for longer daily runs. Brooks has achieved this by updating the Hyperion Max 2 with a new midsole construction that features a peba SpeedVault plate for additional propulsion. The midsole also employs Brooks’ DNA Flash v2 foam, which is 10 per cent more responsive. These updates, combined with the shoe’s RapidRoll rocker geometry, deliver exceptional cushioning, increased responsiveness and faster heel-to-toe transitions. The stack height has also been increased by 4 mm in the heel and 6 mm in the forefoot, for extra softness and protection. While midsole updates may get most of the attention, it would be unfair to ignore the Hyperion Max 2’s new upper. Constructed with an engineered mesh, the new upper offers exceptional fit and breathability. If you are looking for a versatile shoe for fast workouts and longer runs, look no further.

Best for runners seeking a lightweight shoe for daily training and tempo runs

The Mach 6 is Hoka’s lightest and most responsive model in the Mach series. With this model, Hoka has used its supercritical EVA-based foam midsole, which provides extra energy return without compromising cushioning. For runners who need specs, the midsole measures 37 mm in the heel and 35 mm in the forefoot, resulting in a 5 mm drop. The upper is constructed with a creel jacquard textile that provides exceptional ventilation and a foot-conforming fit. It should be noted that the Mach 6 tends to fit a little narrow, so runners with paddle-like feet may want to look elsewhere. The outsole has also been updated with a larger patch of Durabrasion rubber that now covers the majority of the sole, ensuring improved durability and traction. If you are a narrow-footed runner looking for a fast and versatile shoe, check out the Mach 6.

Best for runners seeking a nimble daily trainer for faster workouts

Fans of the Kinvara line will appreciate that the 15th iteration of this shoe remains true to its heritage. The Kinvara 15 retains its plush cushioning as well as its much-admired low weight and responsive ride. Saucony uses its time-tested PWRRUN EVA-based foam for the midsole, ensuring the Kinvara 15 retains its excellent cushioning and a snappy feel. The engineered mesh upper has larger perforations, resulting in improved breathability in warm conditions. For the outsole, Saucony uses two minimalist rubber pads, one at the toe and the other at the heel. The design ensures low weight, but at the cost of some long-term durability. This minor trade-off, however, is easily accepted when you consider the Kinvara’s versatile performance. If you want numbers, then consider that the Kinvara 15 clocks in with a 29 mm heel stack and a 25 mm forefoot stack, resulting in a 4 mm drop. There is nothing new with these specs, which should help reassure fans that they will experience the same snappy performance they’ve come to expect from the Kinvara line.

Best for runners seeking a lightweight shoe for faster training and racing

The updated Hyperion 2 now features a nitrogen-infused DNA FLASH v2 foam midsole that’s lighter and delivers a more responsive ride. Brooks has also increased the amount of midsole foam (the stack height is now 4 mm higher–26 mm at the heel and 18 mm at the forefoot), resulting in improved cushioning. Up top, the Hyperions 2 uses a lightweight and highly breathable mesh upper that provides excellent ventilation and a comfortable foot-conforming fit. For the outsole, Brooks specs its RoadTack Rubber compound that’s light, durable, and offers solid grip. If you are looking for a light and responsive shoe for speedwork or racing, check out the Hyperion 2.

Products reviewed in this article: