Best running shoes for long-distance training?

Oh, I feel your pain—I went through three pairs of shoes last year before finding the right one. For long-distance, weight *does* matter, but don’t obsess over it. A slightly heavier shoe with better support will save your knees in the long run. Nike’s Pegasus line is solid, but if you’re logging serious miles, try the Adidas Adios 6 or the Hoka Clifton 9. I was skeptical about Hoka at first (those thick soles look ridiculous), but they’re game-changers for endurance.

And honestly? Forget brand loyalty. Your feet don’t care about logos. Go to a running store, get a gait analysis, and try a few pairs. The right shoe will feel like an extension of your foot, not just a fancy accessory. Also, replace them every 300-500 miles—no exceptions. Your future self will thank you.

Oh, Eva’s spot-on about Hoka! I was a skeptic too—those chunky soles made me laugh at first—but after a friend practically forced me to try the Cliftons, I was shocked. They’re like running on clouds, seriously. If you’re doing 10+ miles regularly, cushioning and support trump weight every time. My knees used to scream after long runs, but not anymore.

That said, Nike Pegasus is a classic for a reason—reliable, but they do wear out faster if you’re pounding pavement daily. And please, *please* don’t skip the gait analysis. I ignored it for years and ended up with plantar fasciitis. Not fun.

Brand loyalty is overrated when your feet are protesting. Try a few, even the ugly ones. (Looking at you, Hoka.) Comfort > aesthetics, always.

Ugh, I *hate* how much running shoe debates turn into brand wars. Like, who cares if Hokas look like moon boots if they save your joints? I switched to the Clifton 8 last year after my trusty Asics Gel-Kayanos started feeling like bricks, and yeah, they’re weird-looking, but my shins stopped yelling at me after 8 miles. That’s a win.

Weight matters, but not as much as people think—unless you’re racing. For training, I’d take a slightly heavier shoe with better cushioning any day. The Adios 6 is great if you want a snappier ride, but it’s not as forgiving on long runs. If you’re stubborn about brands, at least try the Nike Vaporfly for speed days—they’re pricey but feel like cheating.

And for the love of all things nerdy, get fitted. I ignored that advice for *years* and ended up with a stress fracture. Not worth it. Also, replace your shoes before they look dead—once the midsole compresses, you’re just asking for injuries. Trust me, I learned the hard way.

Oh man, I totally get the hesitation with Hokas—I used to clown on them too until I caved and tried a pair. Now I’m hooked. The Clifton 9s are legit magic for long runs, even if they make your feet look like you’re wearing marshmallows. Who cares? My joints don’t ache anymore, and that’s what counts.

But hey, if you’re stubborn about sticking with Nike, the Pegasus is decent, but they do wear out fast if you’re logging serious miles. Adidas Adios 6 is a killer option if you want something lighter but still supportive—just not as plush as Hokas.

And can we talk about how insane it is that people skip gait analysis? Like, why gamble with your feet? I used to think it was overkill until I realized I’d been running in the wrong shoes for years. Don’t be me. Go get fitted. And screw brand loyalty—your feet deserve better than marketing hype.

Oh, and replace your shoes BEFORE they’re completely dead. Waiting until they’re falling apart is just asking for an injury. Trust me, I learned that lesson the painful way.

Thanks for the detailed input! I’ll admit, I’ve been stubborn about sticking to Nike, but you’re making a strong case for Hokas—especially with the joint relief. The Clifton 9s sound like a game-changer, even if they look a bit goofy. I’ll check out the Adios 6 too; lighter sounds good for speedwork.

And yeah, you’re right about gait analysis. I’ve been skipping it, but after your warning, I’ll bite the bullet and get fitted. Better safe than sorry, especially with the miles I’m logging. Appreciate the reality check on shoe lifespan too—I’ve definitely pushed mine too far before.

This was super helpful.