Best Shoes for Half Marathon in 2026 That We Actually Ran In

Best shoes for half marathon is something every runner searches for when race day gets closer. We’ve been there, and we get it. So we laced up and raced in all the most talked-about running shoes out there.

If you’re just looking for a quick answer, the best half marathon shoes are:

Nike Alphafly 3 Review: Our Race-Tested Experience for Half Marathon

We wore the Nike Alphafly 3 for two different half marathons during our race season, and it genuinely feels like you’re getting a cheat code. It’s built for speed, but not in a fragile way. The stability underfoot has improved a lot compared to the Alphafly 2, especially during long, late miles when legs are starting to tire. It feels fast, light, and also more controlled than expected.

Total Score: 4.9 / 5

Key Features of the Nike Alphafly 3:

• ZoomX Foam Midsole: Delivers explosive energy return with ultra-soft landings.

• Full-Length Carbon Fiber Plate: Adds stiffness and snap for faster toe-offs.

• Dual Air Zoom Pods: Extra cushioning under the forefoot for a springy ride.

• Atomknit 2.0 Upper: Lightweight and breathable with a race-specific fit.

• Improved Outsole Design: Better traction and durability on wet or dry courses.

• Stabilized Midsole Geometry: Feels more stable than Alphafly 2 at high speeds.

• Race-Tuned Heel Collar: Prevents rubbing or slipping during long efforts.

• Lightweight Build: Weighs just around 7.0 oz (men’s size 9) making it one of the lightest carbon racers.

Pros and Cons Table:

Asics Superblast 2 Review: Lightweight Cushion That Goes the Distance

We ran the Superblast 2 through both long training runs and one half marathon effort on a warm, rolling course. The first thing you notice is how light it feels for how much cushion it delivers. 

The dual-foam setup really makes the difference here. The FF Blast Turbo adds the bounce and responsiveness, while the FF Blast Plus smooths things out and keeps the ride comfortable.

The shoe transitions really well at moderate to fast paces. It doesn’t feel like a full-on racing flat, but it holds its own in race conditions without beating up your legs. 

The knit upper is breathable and has a relaxed but secure fit. If you’re not a fan of carbon plates or want a cushioned shoe that still feels fast, this one hits that rare sweet spot.

Total Score: 4.6 / 5

Key Features of the Asics Superblast 2:

• FF Blast Turbo + FF Blast Plus Midsole: Delivers a unique mix of bounce and softness.

• No Carbon Plate: Offers a more natural, flexible ride while staying responsive.

• High Stack Cushioning: Protects your legs without weighing you down.

• Lightweight Feel: Weighs around 8.6 oz (men’s size 9) despite the thick sole.

• Breathable Knit Upper: Keeps airflow steady during long miles.

• Wide Base Design: Adds stability during tired race moments.

• Durable Outsole Coverage: Handles both daily runs and race efforts.

• Smooth Ride Transitions: Ideal for longer efforts at steady paces.

Pros and Cons Table:

Brooks Hyperion Max 3 Review: Soft, Bouncy, and Surprisingly Race-Ready

We tested the Hyperion Max 3 during a half marathon training cycle that included both fast tempo days and long efforts. What stood out instantly was how soft the foam feels underfoot without turning mushy. It’s a shoe you can wear for serious mileage, but it also doesn’t feel slow or clunky when you push the pace.

Total Score: 4.5 / 5

Key Features of the Brooks Hyperion Max 3:

• DNA Flash v2 Midsole Foam: Offers plush cushioning with a surprising amount of rebound.

• Max Stack Height: Protects your legs over long miles without adding instability.

• No Plate Design: Feels natural and more forgiving for long efforts.

• Snug Lace-Up Fit: Keeps your foot secure during faster pace changes.

• Breathable Engineered Mesh Upper: Keeps feet cool during warm races.

• Lightweight Feel: Around 8.1 oz (men’s size 9) with full cushioning.

• Durable Outsole Rubber: Designed to last through training and race cycles.

• Mild Rocker Geometry: Helps smooth out stride for consistent pacing.

Pros and Cons Table:

New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5 Review: A Daily Trainer That’s Built for Race Day Too

We tested the Rebel v5 across a full training cycle and also used it for a tune-up half marathon. It’s one of those shoes that disappears on your foot, in the best way. The ride is smooth, light, and just springy enough without being too soft. The FuelCell foam is known for its bounce, and version 5 fine-tunes that feeling with better midfoot support and a slightly firmer base.

One of the standout upgrades this time is the upper. It’s more supportive than previous versions, but still super breathable. The lockdown around the midfoot is solid, even on sharp corners and downhills.

What makes this shoe special is its versatility. It’s light and fast enough for racing but comfortable enough for everyday miles, which is rare at this price.

Total Score: 4.6 / 5

Key Features of the New Balance FuelCell Rebel v5:

• FuelCell Foam Midsole: Delivers a fast, bouncy feel with every step.

• Lightweight Engineered Mesh Upper: Breathable and supportive without adding weight.

• Neutral Platform: Works well for most stride types, especially forefoot and midfoot strikers.

• Low Profile Stack: Keeps you closer to the ground for better control and efficiency.

• Wide Toe Box: Allows natural toe splay during long runs.

• Lightweight Build: Weighs about 7.4 oz (men’s size 9), great for daily or race-day use.

• Flexible Outsole: Adapts to fast pace changes and cornering.

• Affordable Performance: High-quality shoe without the premium price tag.

Pros and Cons Table:

Brooks Glycerin 21 Review: Comfort That Holds Up Over Every Training Mile

We ran the Glycerin 21 for weekly long runs and some back-to-back recovery sessions. This shoe is all about comfort. The DNA Loft v3 foam is soft but doesn’t feel too squishy. There’s just enough structure to keep you steady, especially when legs are tired and form starts to slip.

Total Score: 4.6 / 5

Key Features of the Brooks Glycerin 21:

• DNA Loft v3 Midsole Foam: Nitrogen-infused for ultra-soft landings with consistent rebound.

• Padded Heel and Tongue: Adds plush comfort during long sessions.

• Wide, Stable Base: Helps with balance and form during fatigue.

• Engineered Mesh Upper: Keeps feet cool with airflow during longer runs.

• Roomy Toe Box: Allows toes to relax naturally across high-mileage weeks.

• Smooth Heel-to-Toe Transition: Promotes relaxed, easy strides.

• High Durability Rubber Outsole: Built to hold up through long training cycles.

• Neutral Support Build: Ideal for most runners who don’t need structured support.

Pros and Cons Table:

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing the best shoes for half marathon, trust how your feet feel, not just what the label says. Every shoe in this list was tested over long runs, race efforts, and everyday miles. Some gave us speed. Others gave us comfort. The best ones gave us both.

If you're chasing a new time, just starting your half marathon journey, or building up your mileage week after week, there's a shoe in here for you. The key is to match the shoe to your goal and how you run.

No matter which one you pick, know this. The right shoes can help you feel lighter, run smoother, and finish stronger. You’ve already put in the hard work. Now it’s time to run your race, one good step at a time.