Currently, the big trend among running shoe manufacturers is adding a carbon plate to their top competition models, as this is synonymous with success . Some also opt for other materials such as fiberglass or nylon plates .

This boom began on October 12, 2019, when Eliud Kipchoge broke the record for the fastest time to complete a marathon, specifically the Vienna Marathon, and he did so with shoes incorporating a carbon plate . Although the use of this type of shoe was not approved by the IAAF, World Athletics decided that running shoes incorporating a single carbon fiber plate could be used.

How does the carbon plate work in running shoes?

A shoe with a carbon plate is more responsive than one without. This type of shoe has a spring effect , meaning a rebound effect is generated with each step as body weight is combined with the force of inertia, resulting in greater propulsion with less energy expenditure.

Why are carbon plate shoes so successful?

In addition to being more responsive than classic flying shoes, carbon plate shoes have a maximalist midsole that offers greater cushioning , so we tire less.

The upper uses materials that offer greater fit and support for the foot, increasing safety .

Are carbon plate running shoes for all types of runners?

It's obvious that not every shoe is right for everyone. In this case, carbon-plated shoes are generally recommended for runners whose running pace is less than 4:30/km . If your pace is slower, you won't get as much out of them.

Best running shoes with carbon plates

Next, we'll look at the best shoes on the market that incorporate the innovative carbon plate .

HOKA ONE ONE CARBON X2

A shoe that will serve us both for training and competition and that is Hoka One One 's bet in the carbon fiber shoe market.

Characteristics:

• The upper features a breathable mesh that incorporates more durable side inserts that perfectly envelop the foot.
• Midsole with anatomical heel with reliefs that offer greater cushioning and stability .
• Highly durable EVA sole that increases the softness of contact with the ground.
• Tongue connected to the midsole that perfectly supports and adheres to the arch to increase grip .
• Flat laces for better pressure control.
• Lightly padded and elongated collar for Achilles heel comfort .
• Reflective details.
• Removable, profiled and perforated insole ensures greater breathability and grip.

These are the ideal shoes for light or medium-weight runners who run at a fast pace and have good running technique. You can run from 10Ks to half marathons with them.

ASICS METARACER

Sneakers with a carbon plate and a futuristic design that offers explosive dynamism and excellent cushioning .

Characteristics:

• Propulsion and stability thanks to the carbon fiber it incorporates.
• FlyteFoam foam that gives excellent cushioning .
• The curved Guidesole midsole reduces muscle pressure on the ankle by 20%.
• Made with a water-repellent mesh upper that keeps the foot cool.
• It also incorporates perforations that help evacuate moisture .
• Sole with Seula Wet Grip Rubber and Asics Grip for greater grip and shock absorption .

For runners of average build who have good running technique. Ideal for long distances ( marathons ).

MAGIC SPEED BY ASICS

The perfect model for your interval training and to prepare for any competition .

Characteristics:

• Propulsion and stability thanks to the carbon plate it incorporates.
• FlyteFoam Blast foam in the midsole , which provides lightness , reactivity , impact absorption and energy return .
• They also feature GuideSole technology to reduce muscle strain, limit pressure on the ankle, increase stride fluidity, and improve performance.
• The technical mesh of the upper offers breathability , lightness and comfort .
• It has perforations to evacuate moisture and keep your feet cool .
• The Asics Grip rubber sole gives us greater grip , traction and durability .
• The studs it incorporates help provide more explosive traction .
• Comfort and protection of the Achilles tendon.
• The insole is removable.

These shoes are recommended for runners with a slim build , both for training and competitions. They're especially ideal for 10Ks and half marathons , and even fast runners can wear them in marathons .

ADIDAS ADIZERO PRO

This model is the result of the brand's collaboration with top athletes. It offers a great sense of speed along with excellent cushioning and dynamic performance .

Characteristics:

• The upper Celermesh offers us lightness , freshness and breathability .
• It contains a carbon plate that gives them greater propulsion and dynamism .
• The midsole combines Boost and LightStrike for greater cushioning and energy return.
• This model incorporates an internal support system that reduces pressure on the neck of the foot.
• The sole is made of Continental rubber with QuickStrike for excellent grip.
• In the heel , we find adiWear that gives great abrasion resistance in that area.

Recommended for runners under 70 kg with excellent running technique. Ideal for those who do a lot of track training or short runs on asphalt.

BROOKS HYPERION ELITE 2

If you need a reactive shoe, quick transitions , and lightness to break all your records, these shoes are what you're looking for.

Characteristics:

• In the midsole , we find DNA Flash foam with nitrogen, which ensures great cushioning , lightness and energy return .
• Contains a carbon plate for greater stability , propulsion and energy savings .
• From heel to toe we have Rapid Roll for better transitions .
• The stretch mesh upper provides greater fit and breathability .
• The rubber sole has reinforcements in strategic areas for greater grip and durability .

They are recommended for runners under 70 kg who want a greater advantage in races from 5K to marathons . You don't need to be an elite runner to use them.

SAUCONY ENDORPHIN PRO 2

Running shoes with a modern design that offer explosive dynamism until the end of the race.

Characteristics:

• It has a carbon plate to give us greater momentum during the race.
• SpeedRoll technology helps provide greater propulsion .
• In the midsole , we find PWRRUN PB foam, for greater cushioning , flexibility and lightness .
• Better fit thanks to the FormFit mesh.
• Breathable upper.
• The lacing and heel reinforcement systems have been renewed, so we will have better support and fit .
• The sole features reinforcements that improve the grip and durability of the shoes.
• Removable insole.

Recommended for runners up to 90 kg who run at a fast pace of 4:00/km, both for training and competition. Ideal for any distance, from a 5K to marathons .

NEW BALANCE FUELCELL RC ELITE V2

The ideal shoes for your asphalt sessions, as they offer excellent propulsion and lightness .

Characteristics:

• In the midsole , it has FuelCell foam, which offers excellent cushioning and dynamism .
• It contains a carbon fiber plate along the entire sole, which translates into greater propulsion and energy return .
• Its seamless design limits the appearance of chafing.
• On the sole, we have Ndurance with carbon reinforcement for greater grip and durability .
• Removable insole.

Despite having a carbon plate, these shoes are suitable for a wide range of runners. They are recommended for runners under 80 kg who need a racing shoe for half marathons or marathons .

ALTERNATIVES TO CARBON PLATE

Although, as we've said, running shoes with carbon plates are on the rise, we also have models on the market that incorporate something similar to achieve similar results.

MIZUNO'S REBELLION

These shoes feature a Wave Plate fiberglass plate and bio-based plastic that provides us, like the carbon plate, greater propulsion , as well as good response while running, stability at fast paces and comfort.

Characteristics:

• Mizuno Enerzy Lite foam in the midsole for greater lightness , cushioning and energy return .
• The Foam Wave also helps to provide better cushioning .
• Mesh upper designed for good air circulation .
• The tongue connected to the upper ensures a great fit and support . This tongue is also thinner for greater freedom of movement .
• A heel reinforcement has been added to increase stability .
• The G3 sole offers us excellent grip , traction and dynamism .
• The padded neck gives us greater comfort .
• Removable insole.

These shoes are very versatile, suitable for both training and competitions. They're recommended for runners up to 80 kg who run at a pace above 4:20/km, and they offer the grip needed to complete 10Ks or half marathons .

SAUCONY ENDORPHIN SPEED 2

The midsole of this model features a nylon plate that is much more flexible than carbon fiber. And while this nylon plate doesn't match the performance of carbon fiber, it provides extra propulsion that increases stride efficiency .

Characteristics:

• SpeedRoll technology helps propel us forward.
• In the midsole we find PWRRUN PB foam for excellent cushioning and energy return .
• The technical mesh upper offers breathability and comfort .
• FormFit mesh gives the shoes a comfortable and precise fit .
• The XT-900 rubber sole has great grip and traction .
• Reinforcements have been added to the sole to increase abrasion resistance . These reinforcements are also found in the heel , providing greater stability .
• The tongue is extensible , so we will have greater fit and comfort .
• Reflective elements on the heel.
• Removable insole.

They are recommended for runners of slim or medium build who need shoes for their competitions or medium or long distance training.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact us; we'll be happy to help. We remind you that you can find any of these models on our website .