7 Best Ultra Running Shoes in 2024

A cushioned, stable, and grippy ride is what we need for conquering ultras, and that’s exactly what Hoka Mafate Speed 4 delivered in our runs. Our lab reveals its Vibram outsole and Traction Lugs make it highly competitive on a variety of trails, while the dual-density platform supports our legs during endless grueling miles.

The highly esteemed Vibram Megagrip Litebase rubber delivered a durometer reading of 85.8 HC, a good indication of durability. It includes 3.9 mm lugs that are variously shaped to serve as brakes on steep inclines. As we ran through loose gravel and wet rocks, we felt confident because we had ample traction to cross safely.

Mafate Speed 4 stands 38.0/30.8 mm tall, giving us tons of impact protection no matter where we land. This erases ground feel almost completely so we can just soak in the foam’s plush nature. Our dissected shoe reveals dual-density layers: the top is a soft 17.5 HA for comfort while the bottom is a firm 28.0 HA to enhance stability. Surprisingly, this Hoka feels light for such a cushioned shoe. Our scales reveal its 10.4 oz (293g) build is even lighter than the average trail shoe.

Unfortunately, the heel design disrupted our runs as small rocks tend to get in. Best to avoid paths with debris that can get through the gap.

Overcoming ultras require an effective impact dampener to sustain long-haul efforts, and we find Saucony Xodus Ultra 3’s cushioning to be the best among ultra-running shoes. It provides comfort not only through its velvet foam but also through its airy and free-flowing nature. Its subtle support is an added competitive advantage.

We’re spoiled with excellent cushioning and responsiveness with the cutting-edge PWRRUN PB foam. Standing tall at 35.1/29.2 mm, it feels buttery-smooth, as validated by our durometer to be 29.6% softer than the average trail shoe. Additionally, it features a balanced 24.0 HA PWRRUN foam closer to the ground for stability.

Creating a more effortless ride is the midsole that moves with our feet with minimal resistance. Our flex test validates it’s 12.5% more adaptive than its counterparts, giving us more comfort for long hours on foot. It features a subtle rocker to sustain momentum when our legs get tired.

XU3 is a breath of fresh air. It scored 4/5 on our breathability test in the lab, keeping our feet fresh and blister-free. Trail shoes rarely reach this score!

However, it lacks reflective elements, so we recommend pairing it with reflective apparel or accessories for enhanced safety.

We conquered endurance runs on off-the-beaten paths with ease thanks to the most lightweight ultra racing shoe — Tecton X 2. Both our lab analysis and runs prove this lightweight champion has so much to offer: stability, cushion for long miles, grip for various terrains, and the finest MATRYX upper.

Despite the height, we felt surprisingly light and nimble. Upon checking our scale, this shoe weighs only 9.1 oz (257g). Adding to the airy feeling is the premium MATRYX upper, which is a rare combination of breathability and durability. It exceeds the standard on both our breathability and Dremel lab tests.

We found Tecton’s features to be very well-suited for trail racing and endurance runs. It feels balanced overall despite being a cushioned shoe and we never lost control on slippery slopes with the 3.6 mm lugs. 

Tecton's clever combination of dual-density foams and two parallel carbon plates in between translates to a dynamic and protective ride. Our durometer shows the top layer is a soft 21.8 HA, dampening the impact of demanding distances. Whereas the bottom foam is a firmer 26.1 HA for more protection and stability. Its stack boasts an above-average 37.4/31.8 mm height, making it cushioned for all footstrikers.

We warn caution that the toebox feels tighter than average, and it is at 96.0 mm. Best to size up to allow some room for the feet to swell, especially for ultras.

In our lab tests and actual endurance runs, we can confirm Nike Ultrafly goes the distance with strong energy return, immense cloud-like comfort, and exceptional stability. We don’t feel our feet counting the miles because this performance-driven shoe gives all the power, TLC, and support we need. No doubt, it’s our top speed ultra running shoe.

Even as a trail shoe, Ultrafly stands out by giving a plush and bouncy platform. Our 9.8 HA durometer measurement is one of the softest in our lab. That’s a mindblowing 63.7% softer than average. Together with its thick ZoomX stack, this pair saves our legs from the harshness of ultras.

Our runs feel far from dull, with the full-length carbon plate promoting fast and efficient strides. Our bend test confirms it's 31.5% stiffer than average. This stiffness drives consistent energy return, which greatly helps us sustain long-haul efforts.

The midsole’s rigidity and vastness contribute to a ride that feels steady and stable. We didn’t have any issues with awkward ankle rolls thanks to Ultrafly’s supportive platform. It ensures steady landings and generous room for wide feet by giving 122.1/93.4 mm room in the forefoot and heel areas.

All the comfort and support come at a heavy weight of 10.6 oz (299g). Runners who prefer lighter shoes should check other options.

We effortlessly clocked in the miles without counting while sporting Brooks Caldera 7 on the trails. Our lab shows it’s suitable for endurance runs with its maximum cushion, seamless ventilation, and stable ride. As an effective impact dampener and leg-saver, it offers the best comfort for ultras.

Caldera 7 encourages extra mileage with its plush cushioning. Its 36.7/27.8 mm stack absorbs shock excellently, confirmed by our durometer's low reading of 15.5 HA, 33.2% softer than average. The DNA Loft v3 adds remarkable bounce for an effortless ride.

Its airy and flexible nature does a favor of keeping our legs fresh. Its breathable thin mesh upper scored a remarkable 5/5 in our lab tests. The shoe bends easily, needing only 29.7N of force to reach 90 degrees, matching the lab average.

Despite its height, the ride remains surprisingly stable. The more obvious sources are the midsole sidewalls and central grooves that guide our feet forward. The next source is the vast landing base, notably its standout 105.2 mm heel that’s 15.6 mm wider than average.

Because of its bulkiness and high torsional rigidity, it lacks the agility and speed for faster running through technical terrains. Those who prefer more challenging paths should consider lighter shoes.

During our prolonged and demanding efforts with the top ultra-running shoes, the Salomon Ultra Glide 2 excels with its versatility. It's highly comfortable and responsive, with an adaptive midsole and outsole for various terrains. Our lab proves its agility further with its impressively light 10.1 oz (286g) build.

Besides its weightlessness, UG2 feels natural and effortless on foot with its high level of flexibility. Emerging 26.8% more adaptive than average in our bend test, it moves seamlessly with our feet. Additionally, its minimal 2.8 mm lugs and thin 1.6 mm Contagrip rubber make it versatile for various activities and terrains.

Equipped with energyFOAM, the Ultra Glide 2 delivers superior cushioning and a springy, responsive ride. Our tests reveal it to be 20.4% softer than the average trail shoe, providing silky-smooth strides. It felt easy to pick up the pace when we wanted to.

However, its focus on lightness and versatility compromised durability. With minimal rubber in the outsole, it’s highly susceptible to wear and tear.

Looking for a trail shoe that’s cushioned, grippy, and fits the budget? A combination of lab tests and outdoor runs helped us choose the most budget-friendly ultra-running shoe. Hello, it’s Merrell’s Agility Peak 5! At $140, it’s more affordable than the $163 average of ultra-running shoes.

With a nearly 40-mm stack, 39.2 mm to be exact, we have bottomless cushioning to conquer endurance runs. Not only is it high, but feels so delightful underfoot, muting out the impact of repetitive landings. Our durometer confirms its plush nature, emerging 16.3% softer than average. Despite its height, the ride feels surprisingly stable on uneven terrain.

Protecting us from slips and mishaps is the world-class Vibram Megagrip outsole, which has a track record in our lab of blending grip and durability seamlessly. It effectively kept us surefooted as we ran through mixed terrains with its 4.5-mm sticky lugs. They vary in shape and direction to further enhance traction in inclines. The rubber proves its long lifespan as it showed less damage than average in the Dremel test.

The forefoot doesn’t match the heel and maintains a humble 25.8 mm profile. The resulting heel drop is 13.4 mm which may feel too steep for runners who don’t heel-strike.