As you set out on your marathon training journey, you're likely aware that the right shoe can make all the difference in your performance and comfort. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect pair. You're probably wondering which shoes will provide the necessary support, cushioning, and endurance for your unique foot type and running style. From neutral to supportive options, we'll explore the top 15 women's shoes for marathon training, so you can focus on what matters most – crossing that finish line. We’ll take a closer look at the features and benefits of each shoe, including their stability, durability, and overall comfort. From lightweight trainers to maximum cushioning options, we’ll help you narrow down the selection to find the best running shoes for women that will keep you going mile after mile. With the right pair of shoes, you’ll be able to train with confidence and focus on achieving your marathon goals.
Brooks Women's Revel 6 Neutral Running Shoe
If you're a runner with high arches and slender feet looking for a shoe that provides exceptional comfort and support, the Brooks Women's Revel 6 Neutral Running Shoe is an excellent choice, offering a perfect fit and a cloud-like running experience.
You'll love how true to size and lightweight it is, making it ideal for running and working out.
The shoe provides great support for plantar fasciitis and ankle pronation, so you can forget about orthotics.
Plus, it's comfortable enough to wear for long distances, like walking 10 hours at Disney.
With its attractive design and fun color options, you can wear it for various activities.
Overall, you'll get great value for your money with this shoe, and you might even want to recommend it to others.
Best For: Runners with high arches and slender feet looking for a comfortable and supportive shoe for running, working out, and walking long distances.
Pros:
- Provides exceptional comfort and support for runners with high arches and slender feet
- Offers a lightweight and true-to-size fit for a cloud-like running experience
- Supports plantar fasciitis and ankle pronation, eliminating the need for orthotics
Cons:
- Material gets dirty and wet quickly
- Not waterproof
- Not quite what was expected for the price
Saucony Womens Triumph 20 Running Shoe
Looking for a shoe that provides exceptional comfort and cushioning for marathon training, you'll find the Saucony Womens Triumph 20 Running Shoe is an ideal choice, thanks to its softest, lightest-ever PWRRUN+ foam for a smooth and irresistible ride.
You'll appreciate the well-cushioned, light, and stable feel, which makes it perfect for walking and long periods of time on your feet.
The arch support is great, very firm and noticeable, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout your training.
With a roomy toe box and comfortable fit, you'll feel like you're walking on clouds.
Best For: Runners and walkers who prioritize comfort, cushioning, and support, particularly those with high arches and supination.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and cushioning with soft, light, and stable PWRRUN+ foam
- Provides great arch support and stability for runners and walkers
- Attractive design and color options with thoughtful vegan materials and recycled elements
Cons:
- Runs a little narrow in normal sizes, requiring a wide size or potential future size up
- Loops of non-stretch material on the tongue can cause tightness across the top of the foot
- Padding around the heel can be cockeyed on one shoe
ASICS Womens GEL-CONTEND 8 Running Shoes
For runners seeking a comfortable and supportive shoe for daily training, the ASICS Womens GEL-CONTEND 8 Running Shoes are an excellent choice, offering true-to-size fit and lightweight feel that's perfect for both casual exercise and marathon training.
You'll appreciate the comfort and support these shoes provide, with many reviewers praising their ability to feel great right out of the box, without any blisters.
With good arch support and a solid feel, these shoes are perfect for Zumba classes or daily runs.
Plus, they're stylish and come in cute colors that'll match with your favorite workout outfit.
Although they may not be ideal for long-term standing, they're a great value for the price and are definitely worth considering for your marathon training.
Best For: Runners seeking a comfortable and supportive shoe for daily training, including those who participate in Zumba classes or casual exercise.
Pros:
- True-to-size fit and lightweight feel for comfortable wear
- Good arch support and solid feel for supportive performance
- Stylish and comfortable design with cute colors to match with workout outfits
Cons:
- May not be ideal for long-term standing, potentially causing Plantar Fasciitis
- May run a little short, requiring sizing up for some activities
- May not provide sufficient support for high arches
Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe
Runners with scoliosis, neuropathy, or disc issues will find their perfect match in the Brooks Women's Adrenaline GTS 23 Supportive Running Shoe, which provides a comfortable and supportive fit tailored to their specific needs.
You'll appreciate the excellent support, especially if you have knee issues, and find them comfortable for both walking and running.
Plus, they're true to size, so you won't need to worry about breaking them in.
The extra cushioning in the sole makes them feel like walking on a cloud, and the durable design can keep up with high-impact activities like HITT training and Zumba.
With a quiz on the Brooks website to help you find the right shoe for your body type and needs, you can trust you're getting the perfect fit.
Best For: Runners with scoliosis, neuropathy, or disc issues, as well as those with knee issues, who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for walking and running.
Pros:
- Provides excellent support, especially for those with knee issues, and is comfortable for walking and running.
- Offers extra cushioning in the sole, making them feel like walking on a cloud, and is durable enough for high-impact activities.
- Is true to size, eliminating the need for breaking in, and accommodates orthotics easily.
Cons:
- May not be easy to slip on and off for those with certain foot issues, such as a fused big toe.
- Some issues with product description, including incorrect color representation and lack of width information.
- May require ordering a larger size for walking comfort.
Womens Road Running Shoes
When it comes to marathon training, women seeking a comfortable and supportive ride will find their best bet in road running shoes that excel in cushioning and arch support.
You'll be pleasantly surprised by how comfy they are, even though the cushioning might take some getting used to.
With great toe space and a snug fit, you'll feel comfortable walking or running in them.
Just keep in mind that you might want to order a half size bigger if you have wider feet.
Performance-wise, they're great for walking or running, and even work well on the tennis court.
However, they're not ideal for very slick surfaces.
You'll appreciate the good arch support, lightweight feel, and excellent value for the price.
Best For: Women who need a comfortable and supportive ride for marathon training, walking, or running, especially those who stand for long hours or have wider feet.
Pros:
- Provides great comfort and fit with good arch support and cushioning
- Offers excellent value for the price and is a good alternative to Skechers brand
- Lightweight and suitable for various activities, including walking, running, and tennis
Cons:
- Not ideal for very slick surfaces and may require ordering a half size bigger for wider feet
- Non-slip feature is not as effective as advertised and insoles may need to be replaced
- Not the most stylish shoes and may not provide the expected level of arch support
Under Armour Womens Charged Assert 9
With their extremely lightweight and breathable engineered mesh upper, the Under Armour Womens Charged Assert 9 is an ideal choice for marathon trainers who prioritize comfort and flexibility.
You'll appreciate the foam padding around the ankle collar and under the tongue, which provides a comfortable fit and feel. The comfort sockliner molds to your foot, with extra padding in the heel for ultimate cushioning.
The Charged Cushioning midsole uses compression-molded foam for responsiveness and durability, while the tire-inspired outsole pattern provides excellent flex and traction.
You'll find these shoes are perfect for walking, running, and other activities, offering excellent cushioning and support. Just remember to order a size up, as they tend to run a bit small.
Best For: Marathon trainers who prioritize comfort and flexibility.
Pros:
- Extremely comfortable and lightweight
- Provides excellent cushioning and support
- Great for walking, running, and other activities
Cons:
- Runs 0.5 smaller than usual shoe size
- Some reviewers found them to be snug, even in larger sizes
- Sizing issues may require exchanging for a larger size
ASICS Womens Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes
If you're a marathon trainer seeking a comfortable and lightweight shoe that won't compromise on support, the ASICS Womens Gel-Excite 9 Running Shoes are an excellent choice, particularly for those with wider feet or plantar fasciitis.
You'll appreciate the roomy and comfortable fit, which is perfect for walking 5 miles daily.
The ortho cushioning provides great support, and the arch support is decent, although it may need some breaking in.
You'll also love the breathable fabric, although it may wear out quickly.
The soles, on the other hand, will last you a while.
With a great price point and comfortable design, these shoes are perfect for those with plantar fasciitis or RA.
You'll be happy with your purchase, and the comfort and support will meet your needs for running and walking.
Best For: Those with wider feet, plantar fasciitis, or rheumatoid arthritis (RA) seeking a comfortable and supportive running shoe.
Pros:
- Roomy and comfortable fit with ortho cushioning that provides great support for walking and running.
- Breathable fabric and decent arch support, although the latter may need some breaking in.
- Great price point for the quality and comfort provided.
Cons:
- Fabric wears out quickly, and soles may not last as long as expected.
- Arch support may need breaking in, and some users may find it not sufficient.
- Seller may not accept returns or provide refunds for unworn shoes.
Mishansha Womens Sneakers Air Cushion Running Shoes
For runners seeking ultimate comfort and pain relief, Mishansha Womens Sneakers Air Cushion Running Shoes are an excellent choice, offering a roomy toe, cushioned sole, arch support, and a stylish design that guarantees you can go the extra mile without discomfort.
You'll appreciate the accurate sizing, which fits true to your usual size, even for wider feet.
The shoes provide great support and comfort, making them perfect for busy days on your feet.
Although some users found the material to feel cheap, the comfort and extra features, like the additional arch support soles and insole padding, make up for it.
Overall, you'll be pleased with this purchase, and you might even plan to order another pair, just like many satisfied customers.
Best For: Runners and individuals who need comfort and pain relief, particularly those with wider feet or foot issues such as plantar fasciitis.
Pros:
- Offers ultimate comfort and pain relief with a roomy toe, cushioned sole, and arch support
- Accurate sizing that fits true to your usual size, even for wider feet
- Comes with additional features such as extra arch support soles and insole padding for added comfort and support
Cons:
- Some users found the material to feel cheap
- May not be suitable for those with narrower feet as the width can be too wide
- The insert material is not liked by some users
Brooks Womens Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe
You'll get exceptional comfort and support from the Brooks Womens Ghost 15 Neutral Running Shoe, making it an ideal choice for runners who need a reliable and responsive ride for their marathon training.
With BioMoGo DNA and DNA Loft cushioning technology, you'll experience a plush yet responsive feel that reduces fatigue and discomfort during longer runs.
The engineered mesh upper provides a comfortable fit and ample breathability, while the plush tongue and padded collar enhance overall comfort.
You'll appreciate the true-to-size fit, which is lightweight yet supportive, and requires no break-in period.
Whether you're a beginner or seasoned athlete, the Brooks Ghost 15 is a great choice for your marathon training, providing a smooth ride on pavement or trails and suitable for various running styles.
Best For: Runners who need a reliable and responsive ride for their marathon training, from beginners to seasoned athletes.
Pros:
- Provides exceptional comfort and support with BioMoGo DNA and DNA Loft cushioning technology
- Offers a true-to-size fit that is lightweight yet supportive, with no break-in period required
- Suitable for various running styles and terrains, including pavement and trails
Cons:
- None mentioned in the review
- None mentioned in the review
- None mentioned in the review
NORTIV 8 Womens Walking Shoes
With its super comfortable, cushioned, and supportive design, the NORTIV 8 Womens Walking Shoes are an excellent choice for women with wide feet or those who need extra support and comfort during marathon training.
You'll appreciate the roomy toe box and the extra cushioning that minimizes knee impact.
Keep in mind, though, that the shoes run a bit large, so you may want to size down by half.
The materials are on par with other athletic shoes, and the design, while not the most stylish, gets the job done.
You'll love how comfortable and squishy they feel, perfect for hours of walking or standing.
Plus, they provide great support and cushioning for your feet, reducing the risk of injuries and pain.
Best For: Women with wide feet or those who need extra support and comfort during marathon training, walking, or standing for long hours.
Pros:
- Super comfortable, cushioned, and supportive design that minimizes knee impact and reduces the risk of injuries and pain.
- Roomy toe box and extra cushioning make them ideal for women with wide feet or those who need extra support.
- Great value for the price, with materials on par with other athletic shoes and timely delivery.
Cons:
- Shoes run a bit large, so sizing down by half is recommended to ensure a comfortable fit.
- Design is not the most stylish, and the chunky bottom may not appeal to everyone.
- Some users found the shoes to be unstable or wobbly, which may affect performance.
ASICS Womens GEL-KAYANO 29
If you're a runner who needs a balance of cushioning and stability, the ASICS Womens GEL-KAYANO 29 is an excellent choice, offering superior support and comfort for marathon training.
You'll want to keep in mind that sizing can be a bit tricky – you may need to size up a half size for a comfortable fit, as the toe box can be narrow and the heel cup can be tight.
Once you get the right fit, you'll appreciate the great cushioning and stability this shoe provides. You'll also love the breathable design, which maintains its quality well.
With the ASICS Womens GEL-KAYANO 29, you can expect a comfortable ride with good arch support and stability, making it perfect for those long training runs.
Best For: Runners who need a balance of cushioning and stability, particularly those training for marathons.
Pros:
- Offers superior support and comfort with great cushioning and stability
- Breathable design that maintains its quality well
- Provides a comfortable ride with good arch support and stability
Cons:
- Sizing can be tricky, with a narrow toe box and tight heel cup
- May cause discomfort in the heel and toes for some users
- Some users may experience issues with the lacing system and heel cup fit
ASICS Womens, GEL-Venture 9 MT Trail Running Shoe
For women seeking a balance of ankle support and stability, the ASICS Womens, GEL-Venture 9 MT Trail Running Shoe stands out with its mid-top upper design.
You'll appreciate the durable manmade mesh uppers with abrasion-resistant overlays, ensuring a secure fit with the lace-up closure.
The removable EVA sockliner, contoured to the shape of your foot, adds to the comfort and support.
With the Rearfoot GEL cushioning system, you'll experience excellent shock absorption, while the Trusstic System reduces weight without compromising structural integrity.
The trail-specific outsole with multi-directional lugs provides reliable traction on various terrain.
Overall, you'll find this shoe to be a great value, offering good arch support, breathability, and a comfortable fit, making it suitable for running, walking, and outdoor activities.
Best For: Women seeking a balance of ankle support and stability for running, walking, and outdoor activities on various terrain.
Pros:
- Provides excellent ankle support and stability with its mid-top upper design and Rearfoot GEL cushioning system
- Offers good arch support, breathability, and a comfortable fit, making it suitable for daily wear
- Has a trail-specific outsole with multi-directional lugs for reliable traction on various terrain
Cons:
- Not fully waterproof, only water-resistant, and may not keep feet dry in wet conditions
- Some reviewers reported needing a smaller size, and a break-in period of around 2 weeks
- May not be suitable for extremely wet or snowy conditions, as some reviewers reported wet feet in such conditions
Brooks Womens Glycerin 20 Neutral Running Shoe
The Brooks Womens Glycerin 20 Neutral Running Shoe is an excellent choice for runners seeking supreme comfort and support, particularly those who need relief from plantar fasciitis.
This shoe provides great support and stability while being lightweight and breathable, making it perfect for long-distance runs.
The plush cushioning and responsive midsole will keep your feet comfortable and energized throughout your training.
You'll appreciate the roomy toe box and true-to-size fit, ensuring a comfortable and supportive ride.
With its durable outsole and quality construction, this shoe is worth the investment for the protection and comfort it provides.
Best For: Runners seeking supreme comfort and support, particularly those who need relief from plantar fasciitis.
Pros:
- Provides great support and stability for plantar fasciitis and long-distance runs
- Offers excellent comfort and breathability with plush cushioning and a responsive midsole
- Durable outsole and quality construction make it a worthwhile investment for protection and comfort
Cons:
- Not suitable for wet climate due to mesh upper
- Laces are too short to lace to the top
- Doesn't provide zero arch support
ASICS Womens Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes
With their exceptional arch support and comfortable toe box, the ASICS Womens Gel-Venture 8 Running Shoes prove to be the best choice for women who need a reliable shoe that can handle high-impact activities like marathon training while catering to their specific foot needs.
You'll appreciate the comfortable fit right out of the box, with a toe box that won't push on bunions and a toe-to-heel measurement that prevents riding up on the heel.
Wide widths are available, making them perfect for those who need extra room.
Plus, the Gel heel provides extra cushioning and support, making them ideal for walking and running, including long distances.
Best For: Women who need a reliable shoe for high-impact activities like marathon training and have specific foot needs, such as those with bunions or who require extra room in the toe box.
Pros:
- Comfortable fit right out of the box with excellent arch support and toe box design
- Available in wide widths, making them perfect for those who need extra room
- Provide total support and cushioning for walking and running, including long distances
Cons:
- May require sizing up for a comfortable fit
- Some users find the shoes to be narrower than expected
- Returns may be necessary for incorrect sizing
Saucony Womens Ride 15 Running Shoe
Runners seeking a premier daily trainer experience will appreciate the Saucony Womens Ride 15 Running Shoe's exceptional comfort and fit, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a smooth ride and responsive bounce.
You'll love the high-quality feel and quality of material, which provides a comfy daily trainer experience with slightly lighter cushioning compared to super cushy shoes.
The fit is great, with a little snugness in the toebox, but not enough to cause discomfort.
You'll need to break it in for around 5-10 miles, but after that, you'll enjoy good support, especially for high arches.
With its wildly smooth ride and responsive bounce, this shoe is perfect for tempo days, and it's also great for easing heel pain issues.
Best For: Runners seeking a premier daily trainer experience, particularly those with high arches or heel pain issues.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and fit, making it an ideal daily trainer
- Provides a wildly smooth ride and responsive bounce, perfect for tempo days
- Great for easing heel pain issues and suitable for walking and dress
Cons:
- Slightly lighter cushioning compared to super cushy shoes
- May require a 5-10 mile break-in period
- Some reviewers experienced quality issues, such as holes forming and the top cap ripping after a few months of use
Factors to Consider When Choosing Women's Shoes for Marathon Training: Endurance and Comfort
When choosing the right shoes for marathon training, you'll want to ponder several key factors that impact your endurance and comfort.
You'll need to think about your foot type, arch support needs, and cushioning requirements to guarantee you're getting the right fit.
Foot Type Considerations
Your foot shape and pronation pattern play a crucial role in choosing the right women's shoes for marathon training, as they directly impact your endurance and comfort levels during long runs.
If you have flat feet, high arches, or anything in between, you'll want to look for shoes that cater to your specific foot type.
For instance, if you're a heavy pronator, you'll need shoes with more support and stability features to prevent excessive foot rotation.
On the other hand, if you're a supinator, you'll want shoes with more cushioning and flexibility to accommodate your natural foot movement.
When trying on shoes, pay attention to how they fit and feel.
Do you notice any pressure points or discomfort?
Do your feet feel stable and supported?
Take note of the shoe's toe box width, heel-to-toe offset, and overall fit.
If you're still unsure, consider consulting a running shoe specialist or getting your gait analyzed.
Arch Support Needs
As you ponder your foot type, you'll also want to think about your arch support needs, which can greatly impact your endurance and comfort during marathon training.
Women with high arches often require more support and stability in their shoes to prevent overpronation and alleviate pain in the feet, ankles, and knees.
On the other hand, runners with flat feet or low arches may require more cushioning and support in the midfoot and forefoot areas to compensate for their foot shape and prevent injuries.
When trying on shoes, pay attention to the arch support by walking or running around the store to verify the shoe feels comfortable and supportive throughout the entire foot.
A shoe with good arch support should provide a snug fit in the midfoot area without being too tight or constricting.
You may also want to ponder custom orthotics or shoe inserts to provide additional arch support and alleviate pain or discomfort.
Cushioning Requirements
One essential aspect to ponder when selecting women's shoes for marathon training is the cushioning requirements, which play a pivotal role in reducing the impact of repetitive footstrikes and conserving energy for the long haul.
You'll want a shoe that provides adequate cushioning to minimize the risk of injuries like plantar fasciitis and stress fractures. A good cushioning system should balance impact protection and responsiveness, allowing for a smooth shift from heel strike to toe-off.
When choosing a shoe, look for midsoles made from materials like polyurethane or EVA, which provide excellent cushioning and durability. Aim for a cushioning system that offers a moderate level of compression set, around 30-40%, for peak energy return and reduced fatigue.
Additionally, verify the midsole material can absorb impact forces effectively, with a compression rate of at least 5mm to minimize stress on joints and muscles. By considering these factors, you'll find a shoe that provides a comfortable ride and supports your training goals.
Width and Fit Options
When selecting women's shoes for marathon training, fitting comfortably into the correct width and size is essential, as it directly impacts endurance and overall comfort during those long, grueling miles.
You'll want to ponder shoes that offer various width options, including narrow, medium, wide, and extra-wide, to accommodate your unique foot shape and size.
A roomy toe box is necessary for comfortable toe movement and can help prevent blisters and toenail issues during long runs.
Try on shoes with the same type of socks you wear during runs to confirm a comfortable and accurate fit.
If you have narrower feet, you may prefer a shoe with a snug fit, while those with wider feet may require a shoe with a more generous toe box and wider overall design.
Breathability Features
You'll want to prioritize breathability features in your women's marathon training shoes, since they play a crucial role in keeping your feet cool, dry, and blister-free during those long, intense runs.
Look for shoes with mesh panels and perforations that allow for airflow and moisture transfer, keeping your feet dry and comfortable. Some shoes feature breathable materials like Flyknit or Engineered Mesh that provide ventilation while maintaining support and stability.
A breathable upper can help reduce blisters and hotspots by allowing moisture to escape, reducing friction and discomfort. Don't forget to check the tongue and collar for breathable materials, as these areas tend to sweat the most.
A well-ventilated shoe can also help regulate foot temperature, reducing the risk of hotspots and discomfort during long runs. Additionally, breathability can help prevent odor buildup and fungal infections by allowing the foot to dry quickly.
Weight and Durability
Opting for a shoe that balances weight and durability is essential for marathon training, as it directly impacts your endurance and comfort during long runs.
You'll want a shoe that's lightweight enough to improve your running efficiency, but not so light that it compromises on durability. Remember, every ounce of weight reduction can translate to a 1-2% increase in running economy.
However, extremely lightweight shoes may not provide the necessary support and comfort for long distances. A durable shoe with a high-quality midsole and outsole can provide adequate cushioning and traction, reducing the risk of injuries and improving overall comfort.
When choosing a shoe, consider the trade-off between weight and durability. A shoe that's too light may not last long, while a heavier shoe may be more durable but compromise on performance.
Look for a shoe that balances these factors, with breathable materials and a durable construction that can last for over a year of frequent use. By finding this balance, you'll be able to train comfortably and efficiently, without worrying about your shoes holding you back.
Conclusion
You've made it to the finish line of our guide to the best women's shoes for marathon training!
With top brands like Brooks, ASICS, and Saucony offering a range of models to suit different foot types and needs, you're now equipped to find the perfect shoe for your endurance and comfort.
Remember to ponder factors like fit, feel, and custom orthotics to guarantee a successful marathon training journey.
