The Most Popular Running Shoes for the New York City Marathon (and What I’ll Wear Instead)
If you’re looking for a new pair of running shoes, why not consult with runners who log more miles than anyone else? Finding the perfect running shoes is n’t just about choosing a style or brand: the right footwear is essential for performance, comfort, and injury prevention.
But with the endless options available for both men and women, choosing the perfect pair can be a daunting task. That’s where Strava data comes in: thanks to thousands of runners logging their gear in the app, we know which top-rated running shoes real runners trust to complete 26.2 miles.
The most popular running shoes according to Strava
Strava gets this data from runners who record what shoes they use for each run. (Quick aside: if you don’t use Strava, I recommend this spreadsheet to keep track of all your valuable data.) Not everyone uses Strava’s gear tracking feature, but for those who do, it’s a great way to keep track of the mileage in each pair of running shoes. Most experts recommend replacing running shoes every 300-500 miles, so this can be a handy reminder of when it’s time to replace a pair… unless you’re my colleague Beth Skwarecki, who recently ran over 1,000 miles in a pair of inexpensive running shoes (and it went great).
According to Strava tracking data from last year’s race, the three most popular shoe models among New York City Marathon runners were:
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Nike Free Run Flyknit . Form-fitting, lightweight, and flexible, these shoes are comfortable for long-distance running. ( Women’s model here , men’s model here .)
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Nike Vaporfly . Carbon-coated and lightweight, they’re a surprising choice for long distances like marathons. ( Women’s version here , men’s version here .)
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Saucony Endorphin Pro . A racing shoe with good cushioning, softer than Nike’s. ( Women’s version here , men’s version here .)
If you ask me, the top pick is particularly intriguing. While the running world was dominated by carbon-coated supershoes promising faster times and better energy return, the most popular model in New York City was the Nike Flyknit—a traditional sneaker without the high-tech features typical of modern running shoes.
On the other hand, the Vaporfly and Endorphin Pro models embrace the carbon fiber trend currently trending in the running industry. These shoes promise increased speed and reduced fatigue, though they are expensive (ranging from $200 to $270) and have a short lifespan of only 240–400 km.
My personal pick: Saucony Endorphin Speed 5
While many runners have opted for full-on running shoes or traditional trainers, I’ll be running a marathon this Sunday in the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5. For me, the Speed 5 is the perfect balance between everyday shoe and race-ready combat gear. It features Saucony’s responsive cushioning and a nylon (rather than carbon) plate, making it versatile enough for training runs yet powerful enough for a race.
Unlike the racing shoes that dominated the Strava data, I prefer shoes that offer:
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Increased Durability : Lasts over 300 miles compared to 150-250 miles for most super boots.
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More versatility : comfortable enough for daily training, responsive enough for racing.
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Lower price : Typically $160-$170 vs. $225-$270 for top-tier riders.
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Reduced risk of injury : A less aggressive plate and moderate cushioning are gentle on your feet.
For runners like me who want to achieve results without the expense (and expense) of specialized racing shoes, the Endorphin Speed line has become the perfect option. It’s proof that you don’t need the most expensive super shoes to run a great race.
If none of this information helps you, here’s my guide to finding the perfect pair of running shoes , no matter what type of running you do. The beauty of running is that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you wear traditional running shoes, cutting-edge carbon fiber trainers, or something in between, the best shoe is the one that suits your feet and your goals. See you at the finish line.