😲6 Super Trainers So Awesome They're Banned for Pros

Ever heard of super trainers?
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👟It's a new category of running shoes.
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😲And they're so awesome, pros are banned from wearing them in competitive races.
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But for most runners, super trainers may be just the shoe to help boost performance, run faster and handle more miles without sacrificing comfort or durability.

• But what exactly are super trainers?
• And how do they fit into your shoe rotation? 
• Are super trainers cheating? 

Here's what you need to know + insider info on 6 top super trainers...

Faster than daily trainers, but not made specifically for racing, super trainers offer maximal cushioning and performance features typically seen in race shoes.
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They're more durable than super shoes and can handle a variety of training runs offering a mix of comfort, speed, and support for various workouts.
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✅What sets super trainers apart is...

• Their ability to provide the cushioning and energy return that rivals race-day shoes, while maintaining the durability and stability needed for longer runs or everyday wear.
• These shoes can be used for long runs, interval sessions, and even tempo workouts—although a lower-profile shoe might be better for track workouts.

😲Are super trainers cheating? 
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They actually can be. Many super trainers have stack heights above the legal 40 mm. Elite and pro runners cannot race in them and can be disqualified. 

• Are officials usually looking at every racers shoes? 
• No. And if you aren't winning races, you are likely fine to wear them in a race setting without worrying about being disqualified. 

👍3 things that make super trainers different than regular trainers

• Max Cushioning: Super trainers typically have a higher stack height, providing more cushioning than traditional trainers.
• Energy Return: Advanced midsole foams provide excellent energy return, reducing fatigue over long distances.
• Plates: Many super trainers include carbon fiber plates or other stiffening agents to help make them more responsive and "faster."

❌What are the drawbacks of super trainers?

• High Stack Heights: Super trainers often have stack heights above 40 mm, which technically makes them illegal for competitive racing. While most recreational runners won’t be disqualified, if you're winning races, it could become an issue.
• More Expensive: Super trainers tend to cost more than daily trainers, starting between $180-$200, whereas regular training shoes typically start around $130.

👉Why you shouldn't use super trainers every day

• Variety: Having a few different shoes in your running routine helps activate various muscle groups, which can reduce the likelihood of overuse injuries. Note: It won't prevent, but it can help reduce. 
• Injury Risk: Like super shoes, super trainers, come with certain risks and require an adjustment period. It’s important to ease into wearing them. Some runners have reported stress fractures of hamstring issues. 
• Biomechanics: Super shoes can change how your muscles work and affect your biomechanics. To avoid potential problems, take your time easing into them. Don't start running all of your miles in them immediately.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s explore some of the best super trainers available today.

• Price: $224.95
• Stack Height: 48mm (heel) / 43mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 5 mm

One of my favorite shoes of 2024, the Hoka Skyward X makes a strong entry into the super trainer category.
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With its Peba midsole, carbon fiber plate, and aggressive rocker, it delivers a highly cushioned, stable ride ideal for easy and recovery runs.
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At 11.3 oz (men’s) and 9.6 oz (women’s), it’s a bit heavier but offers fantastic bounce and smooth transitions.
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👍What makes it great?
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The Skyward X combines plush cushioning with a stiff forefoot, offering an effortless, smooth ride. Perfect for high-mileage runners looking for protection and stability.

• Price: $180
• Stack Height: 44.5mm (heel) / 36.5mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8mm

The Mizuno Neo Vista is a lightweight super trainer designed for versatile use, from recovery runs to speed workouts.
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With a high stack of Mizuno ENERZY NXT foam and a nylon Mizuno Wave plate, it provides both cushioning and stability. Its Smooth Speed Assist technology ensures a smooth ride.
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👍What makes it great?
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Exceptional cushioning combined with a lightweight feel makes the Mizuno Neo Vista ideal for both recovery and faster runs.

• Price: $200
• Stack Height: 45.5mm (heel) / 37.5mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 8mm

The ASICS Superblast 2 features a FlyteFoam Blast Turbo top layer and a smaller FlyteFoam Blast Plus bottom layer.
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With a 45.5 mm heel stack and 37.5 mm forefoot stack, this shoe offers plenty of cushioning and a stiffer rocker geometry for a stable, efficient ride.
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👍What makes it great?
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The SuperBlast 2 is an excellent choice for long runs and tempo efforts, providing a responsive feel while still offering enough softness for recovery days.

• Price: $230
• Stack Height: 40mm (heel) / 36mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 4mm

The New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v3 is a carbon-plated running shoe with a softer, more flexible feel compared to other aggressive racing options.
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With a 4mm drop, this shoe is ideal for runners seeking a cushioned, less stiff ride. It’s particularly suited for those with wider feet, offering a roomy fit.
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👍What makes it great?
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The flexible plate and soft midsole make this a top choice for long-distance races or marathon training.

• Price: $190
• Stack Height: 44mm (heel) / 39mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 5 mm

The Hoka Mach X2 provides a springier ride and improved responsiveness with its PEBAX® plate and additional PEBA foam.
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It offers a cushioned yet firm ride that delivers excellent ground contact.
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👍What makes it great?
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The Mach X2’s sticky rubber outsole ensures reliable traction on wet roads, making it a versatile performance trainer for various conditions.

• Price: $300
• Stack Height: 😲50mm (heel) / 43.5mm (forefoot)
• Drop: 6.5mm

The Adidas Prime X 2 Strung is a high-performance super shoe with a towering 50mm stack height.
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Though illegal for racing, it’s perfect for training and long-distance runs, featuring dual carbon plates for exceptional responsiveness and cushioning.
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👍What makes it great?
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The Prime X Strung 2 offers a super cushioned yet fast ride, ideal for faster workouts and recovery.

Super trainers can serve multiple roles depending on your needs.

• If you’re looking for a shoe that can handle everything, a super trainer could be a great option. 
• Alternatively, they can be an excellent addition to your rotation for long runs, tempo efforts, and even speed workouts.
• Many runners find that super trainers help them adapt to their race-day shoes without the wear and tear that comes with using those shoes during training. 
• They provide a similar feel and energy return, making the transition to your super shoes on race day much smoother.

Super trainers offer a fun blend of performance, comfort, and durability.
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Whether you’re looking for a shoe that can handle your daily miles or a versatile option for faster efforts, there’s a super trainer out there for you.
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Almost all of the major brands are coming out with super trainers to help you run your best and recover just as fast.
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👟Do you have a favorite super trainer?
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Tell us about it in the comments or Create a WeeView about your favorite super trainer.