Best Carbon-Plated Running Shoes of 2025: 18 Expert Picks

Looking for carbon-plated running shoes to help you run faster, longer & chase PRs in 2025?
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These shoes have revolutionized the way athletes approach racing and training. But what are they?
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Carbon-fiber running shoes:

• Include a carbon fiber plate in the midsole
• Provide a responsive, propulsive feel...
• That can help you achieve new personal bests (Eliud Kipchoge ran in one of the first Nike prototypes in a carbon-plated shoe)

Whether you’re aiming for a faster marathon time or better performance in shorter distances, carbon-plated running shoes are designed to give you that extra edge. 
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They can benefit anyone from elite and professional runners to newer runners, but it's important to find the right one for you.
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Check out our top 18 picks for carbon-plated running shoes...

The inclusion of a carbon plate isn’t just a gimmick...it’s a game-changer for runners looking to maximize their potential.
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Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:
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✅Pros:

• Increased Speed: The plate acts like a springboard, propelling you forward with less energy expenditure.
• Enhanced Energy Return: Combined with responsive foams, these shoes help reduce fatigue over long distances.
• Improved Efficiency: Perfect for those aiming to shave seconds (or minutes) off their race times.

❌Cons:

• Pricey Investment: Carbon-plated footwear is typically the most expensive pair you’ll own.
• Susceptible to Injury: If you wear the wrong shoe for you, you may find yourself more injury-prone.
• Durability Concerns: Many models are optimized for race day and may not last as long as everyday trainers.
• Limited Versatility: They’re not ideal for casual runs.

• Price: $200
• Weight: 7.3 oz
• Stack Height: 36 mm (heel) / 29 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 7 mm

The 361 Furious Future 2.0 is a high-performance, carbon-plated running shoe ideal for half-marathons to marathons. 

• The Qu!kBONE DYNAM!C carbon-fiber plate adapts to various running techniques, offering personalized support. 
• With excellent grip from its durable RPU outsole, the shoe excels on varied surfaces.
• It fits true to size, with ample toe room, making it a great choice for runners with wider feet. 

At $200, it’s one of the more affordable carbon-plated options and a competitive choice for runners seeking speed and comfort without compromising durability.

• Price: $249.95
• Weight: 7.1 oz (men’s size 9), 6.4 oz (women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 39 mm (heel) / 33 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 6 mm

The adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is a premium racing shoe crafted for speed and distance. 

• Featuring an upgraded Lightstrike Pro midsole, it delivers exceptional bounce and energy return
• Its lightweight, streamlined upper reduces weight without sacrificing comfort.
• The shoe’s refined forefoot geometry enables smooth and fast transitions, making it ideal for competitive runners aiming for top performances. 
• A grippy outsole ensures stability on varied surfaces. 

If you’re looking for a fast carbon-plated shoe with some of the best traction, consider the Adizero Adios Pro 4.

• Price: $300
• Weight: 10.4 oz (men’s size 8.5), 9.9 oz (women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 50 mm (heel) / 43.5 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 6.5 mm

The adidas Adizero Prime X Strung 2 is designed for runners seeking a high-performance, maximalist training shoe. 

• With a stack height over 40 mm, it’s technically illegal for sanctioned races, but unless you’re winning, no one is likely to call you out.
• Its updated midsole includes three layers of Lightstrike Pro foam, featuring a softer middle layer and two carbon plates, which enhance stability and cushioning. 
• While heavier than its predecessors, the Prime X 2 transitions from racing to daily training and long runs, excelling at marathon-paced efforts.

With its unmatched stack height and plush ride, it’s an excellent choice for those prioritizing comfort during extended sessions.

• Price: $259.95
• Weight: 8.1 oz (men’s size 9), 5.8 oz (women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 36 mm (heel/forefoot)
• Drop: 0 mm

The Altra Vanish Carbon 2 is a groundbreaking super racing shoe, combining a natural, zero-drop design with modern performance features...a rarity among racing shoes.

• Its EGO PRO midsole delivers impressive bounce and energy return, while a forefoot plate adds torsional stiffness and mild flexibility for a responsive ride.
• The lightweight, redesigned upper ensures a snug and comfortable experience during high-intensity runs. 

The Vanish Carbon 2 offers a competitive zero-drop option for long-distance races, making it a standout choice for runners seeking a natural feel without sacrificing performance.

• Price: $249.95
• Weight: 6.5 oz (unisex: men’s size 9, women’s size 10.5)
• Stack Height: 39.5 mm (heel) / 34.5 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 5 mm

The twins: the Edge and the Sky. You can't really have one on the review list without the other. 
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The ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris is a lightweight, high-performance racing shoe designed for speed and efficiency. 

• Built with the FF Turbo+ PEBA midsole, it offers exceptional bounce and energy return, complemented by rocker geometry and an integrated plate for smooth transitions.
• The ultra-lightweight upper enhances comfort and breathability, making it a good choice for fast-paced, long-distance runs. 
• Designed for aggressive racers, the Edge provides a rolling ride and stable fit, ensuring optimal performance during extended efforts. 

With its competitive design and narrow fit, the Metaspeed Edge Paris is a great choice for runners seeking speed and a snug fit.

• Price: $249.95
• Weight: 6.4 oz (men’s size 9, women’s size 10.5)
• Stack Height: 39 mm (heel) / 34 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 5 mm

The ASICS Metaspeed Sky Paris is a cutting-edge super racing shoe tailored for runners seeking speed and responsiveness. Of the "twins", it's the more popular option. 

• Equipped with an FF Turbo+ PEBA midsole and a flatter plate, it provides a bouncy, propulsive forefoot.
• Its smooth geometry ensures efficient transitions. 

As one of the lightest options in the super shoe category, the Sky Paris excels in both comfort and performance.

• Price: $250
• Weight: 7.8 oz (men’s size 9), 6.6 oz (women’s size 10.5)
• Stack Height: 39.1 mm (heel) / 27.3 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 11.8 mm

The Brooks Hyperion Elite 4 introduces significant improvements, including a:

• Durable knit upper
• Speedvault+ carbon plate
• High 39.1 mm stack height for added cushioning
• The shoe offers excellent stability and breathability.

Weighing 7.8 oz, it’s heavier than many competitors and features a narrow fit, making it best suited for heel strikers with narrow feet. While not a stability shoe, it’s one of the more stable options available.

• Price: $275
• Weight: 6.8 oz (women’s size 8), 9.3 oz (men’s size 10)
• Drop: 7 mm

Hoka can be confusing due to the sheer number of carbon-plated shoes they offer. The Hoka Cielo X1 2.0 is their fastest and most advanced carbon-plated racing shoe. This shoe features:

• A resilient two-layer PEBA midsole and a winged carbon plate
• Excellent energy return, dynamic propulsion, and inherent stability.
• The rockered design ensures the Cielo X1 2.0 excels during speed work and on race days. 
• A durable rubber outsole adds traction and longevity. 

Note: At $275, it’s one of the most expensive options available.

• Price: $249.95
• Weight: 7.6 oz (men’s size 9), 6.3 oz (women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 38 mm (heel) / 36.5 mm (forefoot), 3.5 mm sockliner
• Drop: 1.5 mm

The Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is a high-performance racing shoe designed for forward-foot strikers. There aren’t many shoes tailored specifically for "toe runners," but the Wave Rebellion Pro 2 stands out.

• Its highly-rockered midsole incorporates Enerzy Lite+ and Enerzy Lite foams for a bouncy, efficient ride
• It's ideal for tempo runs and marathon distances.
• The upper fits slightly short due to a tapered toe box, so some runners may need to size up for comfort. 

At $249.95, the Wave Rebellion Pro 2 is an aggressive and responsive option for long-distance events.

• Price: $249.95
• Weight: 8.1 oz (men’s size 9), 7.2 oz (women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 40 mm (heel) / 36 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 4 mm

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v4 is a super-distance racing shoe designed for comfort and bounce. 

• Featuring a new PEBA-based FuelCell midsole and an updated upper, it offers a smoother, more forgiving fit with extra midfoot room
• One of the best options for runners new to super shoes or those targeting relaxed to uptempo paces, the SuperComp Elite v4 excels at half to full marathon distances. 

While not the most stable shoe, its highly cushioned design provides a soft, bouncy ride suited for long runs or races.

• Price: $284.95
• Weight: 7.0 oz (Men’s size 9), 6.1 oz (Women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 40 mm (heel) / 32 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8 mm

The Nike Alphafly 3 is an elite super-racing shoe designed for fast-paced efforts, particularly marathons. 

• Built with responsive ZoomX foam and large Zoom Air pods, it's one of the most popular race-day options for sub-elite runners.
• The aggressive ride caters to runners pushing the pace. 
• Featuring a snug midfoot and heel fit with slight width in the forefoot, the low-volume upper may require adjustments for optimal comfort. 

Priced at $284.95, the Alphafly 3 offers a fast, high-performance ride.

• Price: $249.95
• Weight: 6.5 oz (Men’s size 9), 5.6 oz (Women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 38 mm (heel) / 30 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8 mm

Of course, we had to include the most popular carbon-plated shoe for everyday runners. 

• The bouncy ZoomX midsole delivers outstanding energy return, maintaining its reputation for speed and efficiency. 
• Enhanced outsole traction ensures reliable grip on various surfaces, making it an adaptable choice for racers.

At just 6.5 oz for men and 5.6 oz for women, it’s one of the lightest super shoes available and one of the most accessible race-day shoes.

• Price: $170.00
• Weight: 9.3 oz
• Stack Height: 40 mm (heel) / 32 mm (forefoot)
• Heel Drop: 8 mm

The Nike Zoom Fly 6 is the best version of the Zoom Fly yet, offering durability and versatility for runners seeking a reliable, fast-paced trainer. 

• Featuring ZoomX foam for improved energy return and a flexible carbon Flyplate for smoother transitions.
• The shoe excels at tempo runs and uptempo efforts during training.

While not as fast as the Vaporfly or Alphafly, it’s a dependable, cost-effective option for those seeking a super trainer. It's a top contender for one of the best super trainers as well.

• Price: $289.99
• Weight: 7.6 oz (Men’s size 9), 6.6 oz (Women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 37 mm (heel), 27.5 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 9.5 mm

The On Cloudboom Echo 3 is On Running's first true super shoe, designed for speed and performance. 

• Featuring a carbon plate and dual Pebax foam layers, it delivers a rockered, snappy ride that remains firmer than many super shoes.
• Best suited for 5k to half-marathon distances, the Cloudboom Echo 3 also works for marathon racing for elite runners or those who prefer a firmer feel. 

At $289.99, it’s one of the most expensive options but a good choice for racers seeking a fast, firm ride.

• Price: $260.00
• Weight: 8.5 oz (Men’s size 9), 7.4 oz (Women’s size 8)
• Stack Height: 40 mm (heel) / 32 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8 mm

The Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite 2 is a super racing shoe tailored for half to marathon distances. 

• The NITROFOAM Elite midsole delivers excellent bounce and responsiveness, accommodating heel and forefoot strikers alike.
• An extended carbon plate enhances propulsion, making the shoe optimal for runners with strong calves and ankles who can maximize its forward-pushing design. 

While slightly heavier than some competitors, its stability and cushioning cater well to longer races, offering a specialized tool for distance runners aiming for speed.

• Price: $275
• Weight: 7.7 oz (Unisex sizing: Men’s size 9 / Women’s size 10)
• Stack Height: 37.5 mm (heel) / 28.5 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 9 mm

The Salomon S/Lab Phantasm 2 is a high-performance racing shoe. 

• Featuring a PEBAX-based midsole, it delivers exceptional bounce and responsiveness, increasing efficiency as pace quickens. 
• Its long-fitting upper accommodates foot swelling during long distances but may require sizing adjustments.

Best for workouts and races, the Phantasm 2 marks Salomon's entry into the super shoe category. Priced at $275, it’s one of the more expensive options.

• Price: $274.95
• Weight: 7 oz (Men’s size 9 / Women’s size 10.5)
• Stack Height: 39.5 mm (heel) / 31.5 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8 mm

The Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 builds on the original with significant updates, including the introduction of the IncrediRUN midsole. 

• This new foam enhances compliance and bounce, offering a livelier and more energetic ride. 
• While the redesign boosts midsole excitement, the shoe has become less stable, which may deter fans. 
• With its lightweight construction and improved cushioning, the Endorphin Elite 2 is Saucony's fastest carbon-plated shoe. 
• Available beginning March 1, 2025.

Priced at $274.95, it’s a good choice for runners seeking a high-performance super shoe with cutting-edge midsole technology.

• Price: $169.95
• Weight: 8.2 oz (men’s) / 7.2 oz (women’s)
• Stack Height: 36 mm (heel) / 28 mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8 mm

The Saucony Endorphin Speed 4 brings the series back to its roots as a fast, versatile shoe perfect for workouts, long runs, and racing. 

• This shoe features a lightweight engineered mesh upper, snug fit, and responsive PWRRUN PB midsole paired with a nylon plate.
• It offers stability, smoother transitions, and a snappy forefoot feel. 

While slightly narrow for some runners, the Speed 4 excels for those seeking a plated trainer without carbon shoe pricing. It's a great pick for runners needing a high-performance shoe for both training and racing.

Carbon-plated running shoes have transformed performance for runners. 

• From marathon racing to speed workouts, these shoes use advanced technology like carbon plates and responsive midsoles to enhance energy return and reduce fatigue. 
• By finding the right running shoe for you, you're able to enhance your running. 

What's your favorite carbon-plated running shoe?
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👉Share yours in the comments or create a WeeView and tell us more about your favorite carbon-plated running shoe.