What shoes do marathon winners wear? These 7 pairs of running shoes have all graced the podium at the world's top races
These elite-level running shoes from Nike, Adidas and more all have what it takes to propel experienced runners to success.
As marathons resume this year, athletes will don various shoes to achieve their best times. Among the most successful marathon winners, a few shoe brands and models have emerged as favorites. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4, worn by men's champion Benson Kipruto in Berlin 2025 and women's champ Rosemary Wanjiru in the same race, features consistently.
Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 is also popular among women's marathon winners. Nike Alphafly 3, sported by men's champion Jacob Kiplimo in Chicago 2025, is another top choice. Record-breaker Eliud Kipchoge also wears Nike Alphafly 3. For Boston Marathon victories, Asics MetaSpeed Sky shoes were worn by two-time champion John Korir and Under Armour Veliciti Elite 3 by Sharon Lokedi, who defended her title in 2026.
Hellen Obiri won the women's race at New York 2025 in On LightSpray Cloudboom Strike, known for their innovative laceless, spray-on style. While these are the most successful marathon shoes, beginners and intermediate runners may prefer more beginner-friendly options. However, marathon runners should avoid switching up their footwear in the weeks leading up to a race.
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