The Best Lightweight Running Shoes of 2020

After the FuelCell TC— New Balance's first shoe to show off a carbon plate—here's the FuelCell RC Elite, a shoe whose keywords are comfort and versatility.

It comes with a high-stack cushioning with a height of 35 mm under the heel and 25 mm under the forefoot. The FuelCell foam gives a soft and plush cushioning with a firm touch under the heel. The soft feel of the sole is very similar to that of the Adidas Adios Pro. The result is a very comfortable ride, but the testers judged the bounce to be moderate. The carbon plate—discreet under the foot—does its job and provides a responsive ride with fast transitions but maybe not as impressive as on other similar models (like the Nike AlphaFly, to name only one). Therefore, the ride is actually close to what you get from a traditional running shoe, making it an exciting option for runners looking for a more accessible, more comfortable carbon plated shoe.

Next, the mesh of the upper is soft and relatively thick for a racing shoe, which reinforces the overall feeling of comfort. The shoe fits true to size, but the lockdown is a little loose in the middle of the foot, according to several runners. It's one of the main issues of this model: runners are concerned that it may not be secure enough for racing. The toe box offers enough room, and the heel counter perfectly locks-in the foot. The design is very nice with a sleek build and bright neon colors, although, of course, it's a matter of preference.

Finally, the Dynaride outsole and its small triangular rubber lugs give good traction and seem durable: testers didn't notice any signs of wear after several runs. Besides, the lugs also equip the tip of the shoe to act as a toe bumper that protects the toes and makes the shoe more sturdy.

To summarize, the FuelCell TC is a great carbon plate running shoe with a soft and flexible platform that received high praise from many seasoned runners. Its combination of performance and comfort make it a very versatile shoe. Make no mistake though: it's a shoe built for marathon racing, but it's also suitable for daily training.

Adidas is making a big splash for the start of the Autumn season with the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro, its second shoe to use a carbon plate. Like its direct competitors (such as the Nike Alphafly or the Brooks Hyperion Elite 2), the Adios Pro features a very high-stack cushioning to run comfortably long and fast.

When we mentioned that the Adios Pro featured a carbon plate, we only told half of the story (or even less). Indeed, the shoe has not one but six plates! First, there's a carbon-infused nylon plate under the heel to improve stability and compensate for the narrow profile of the rearfoot. Second, there are five "EnergyRods" made of carbon-infused TPU that support the toes to promote smooth transitions and a springy ride. These propulsion plates are surrounded by the new Lightstrike Pro foam, which is very flexible. The result is a high stack sole with 39 mm of height under the heel and 31 mm under the forefoot. The testers found the outcome breathtaking in terms of performance and running sensations. Indeed, they noted "fast transitions" from heel to toe and a perfect balance between softness and bounce. In other words, the feel is soft and plush with the Lightstrike Pro foam, but the carbon plates give good structure and a natural impulse while running. The only downside is the weight of the foam, which is heavier than that of its competitors (such as Nike's ZoomX). The shoe is far from being heavy, but it is not as light as one would expect from this high-tech racing shoe.

The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro also shines thanks to its Celermesh upper that offers amazing foot lockdown with its unique design. Also, it provides excellent airflow throughout the run and features a roomy toe-box without reducing lockdown. The only criticism we've seen is that the collar could irritate the Achilles tendon, but this may be an isolated incident.

Finally, the outsole is rugged rubber but with a surprisingly flat sandpaper-like surface. Rest assured, however, the testers didn't find that this configuration diminished durability or grip—quite the contrary!

In summary, the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro is an excellent running shoe to go fast comfortably that offers a unique and impressive configuration, especially with the EnergyRods carbon plates under the toes. The comfort is there, and the cushioning is spectacular, according to the runners who have tested the shoe.

With the Endorphin Pro, Saucony enters the highly-competitive carbon plate running shoe category that has been dominated head and shoulders by Nike so far.

It's a lightweight shoe (221 grams for men, 190 grams for women) with a thick sole (35 mm under the heel) that features a brand new cushioning technology: PWRRUN PB. It translates into Pebax fused granules with a texture reminiscent of Adidas Boost. Inside, the carbon plate is there to make the ride more responsive by facilitating a snappy rebound. So what's the verdict?

First of all, what surprised testers the most was the firmness of the cushioning despite the high stack height. They note that the cushioning is very bouncy but without offering the "trampoline" effect of the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%. This configuration has the advantage of giving a more stable and natural ride with a good ground feeling. It may not perform as well as the Nike Vaporfly—only time will tell—but overall, Saucony's approach is convincing and original.

Regarding the upper, the FORMFIT mesh gives a strict foot lockdown for more safety when you go fast. The runners were impressed by the excellent ventilation of the foot during the effort. However, the shoe has a tapered profile, so it can be too narrow if you have wider feet.

Finally, the carbon rubber of the outsole ensures good durability and excellent traction on urban surfaces.

All in all, the Saucony Endorphin Pro is a very good carbon-plate running shoe that's already a solid contender to Nike's NEXT% collection.

The Hoka Rincon 2 is back after a first unanimously acclaimed version that took the world of running by surprise with its ultra-light and comfortably cushioned profile. Without further ado, let's dive right in: the Rincon 2 is the same shoe with a few small changes. The weight remains about the same but the sole is a little thinner with 29 mm under the heel for men and 26 mm for women. The drop is still 5 mm. Cushioning is still very comfortable with a good balance of softness and firmness. Runners who have tested the shoe agree that it is not as responsive as some of its competitors, especially those with carbon plates. However, the lightweight profile compensates for its absence to some extent. In other words, the shoe is naturally springy overall. The upper is the part that has evolved the most, but without radical change. The mesh is thicker and slightly tighter than before, which gives a better upper fit. If you have wider feet, don't worry: the Rincon 2 remains accommodating, especially around the toes. The outsole is the only part that draws criticism from testers. Indeed, the Rincon 2 has little rubber to protect the sole, which is made of exposed EVA foam. This configuration is not ideal in terms of durability as it offers little protection against abrasion. This is a recurring criticism from testers who have all noticed that the sole wore out quickly after only a few runs. The Hoka Rincon 2 is affordable but we would still like it to be more robust to be able to last at least 500 km/300 mi. Overall, the Hoka Rincon 2 is a very good, light, and comfortable road running shoe with generous cushioning and a great upper. The only real drawback is the fragility of the sole but this remains acceptable considering the great qualities of the shoe.

The third model of the very successful Endorphin collection is a tempo running shoe: the Speed. Complementing the Endorphin Shift (trainer) and Endorphin Pro (versatile with carbon plate), this shoe stands out for its snappy ride at fast paces. Its neon hues and fun design also make it a very appealing shoe. The Speed's midsole is one of the most notable features of this model. Made with PEBA-based PWRRUN PB cushioning, Saucony claims that this material offers an explosive energy return. This high-stack shoe (33 mm under the heel, 25 mm under the forefoot) also features a full-length, S-curved nylon plate, and SpeedRoll geometry to provide a smooth and comfortable transition from heel to toes. Testers unanimously enjoyed the ride, but with one caveat: you have to run fast as the shoe is a bit too harsh at slow paces. The Speed is noticeably much lighter than the Endorphin Shift, giving it a more weightless feel. Runners remarked that the upper of the Speed is particularly excellent, with FORMFIT technology that enhances comfort and breathability. Meanwhile, the outsole contributes to the propulsion of the shoe, engineered with durable rubber that grips terrain and stabilizes the foot. Those who tried the Speed commented on a few drawbacks of the design. The rear and plate of the shoe, though cushioned, proved a bit too firm for some runners. However, this rigidity lessened overtime. Runners also questioned the price point of the Speed, which is $40 less than its Pro counterpart but doesn't offer the same versatility and comfort. The Speed is a great tempo shoe, meaning that it works well for interval or tempo runs, but it is not a daily trainer. Runners searching for running shoes suitable for all workouts will prefer the Pro over the Shift. Overall, the Saucony Endorphin Pro is a very good running shoe with comfortable and responsive cushioning for fast running, even though its firmness may not be to the liking of everyone.

The Hoka One One Carbon X was the first shoe of the brand to feature a carbon plate. One year later, Hoka persists and signs with this resolutely firm model despite some signs of softening.

First of all, we must put the Carbon X 2 in the context of 2020. After the rush for carbon footwear in 2018/2019, the novelty stage has passed. We are now spoilt for choice, with every major brand offering at least one carbon-fiber plate model. In this regard, the weight of the Carbon X 2 is in the high range with 239 g/8.4 oz (men's model). In comparison, the Adidas Adios Pro weighs 224 g/7.9 oz and the Nike Alphafly 229 g/8.0 oz despite their high stack height close to 40 mm.

The Hoka Carbon X 2 offers a thinner sole than before with 32 mm for men and 30 mm for women under the heel with a 5 mm drop. The cushioning of the PROFLY X midsole and its CMEVA foam is softer but remains firm overall. The carbon plate, which was very stiff on the first model, is also a bit more flexible, which gives a smooth but less propulsive ride than before, according to the testers. Also, the softer cushioning reduces the ground feel. Overall, this slight configuration change provides greater comfort and versatility for longer runs.

Next, the upper remains very similar to the first model, but with a new sleek flared heel. It was well-received overall, especially because of its padding that locks-in the heel comfortably in the shoe. Besides, the mesh is a little thicker, which makes it more resistant than before. The result is a tighter lockdown. The testers praised this improvement, noting that it makes the shoe more suitable for racing. Finally, the wide, foam-rich "Swallow Tail" heel adds stability. It's specially designed for runners who heel strike (the majority) and provides more comfortable cushioning upon landing. However, if you forefoot or midfoot strike, the benefit may be minimal, and the bulky piece may even weigh you down for nothing.

When it comes to durability, the rubberized foam of the outsole is frankly not ideal for high-mileage runners. For example, some users have noticed wear signs after about 250 km/155 mi, which is not great considering the shoe's price. Unfortunately, it's often the case with this type of shoe.

In summary, the Hoka Carbon X 2 remains true to the first model with a firm and springy cushioning that lends itself well to long distances. However, the shoe seduces without impressing, and its durability limits its versatility. In other words, it lacks this WOW factor to instantly turn heads. Hoka fans, go for it! For others, take the time to compare with other carbon-fiber plate shoes to determine what suits you best.

We have just unpacked the first model, and Brooks is already back with a second version! The Hyperion Elite had received mixed reviews, with many criticizing its firm and dull cushioning. Also, durability wasn't there—the brand itself admitted that the shoe had a lifespan of 150 km (!). Brooks seems to have corrected this by reinforcing the sole with more rubber. Without being sturdy, the testers note that this new model should withstand more kilometers than the first one.

The Cushioning has softened and offers greater bounce. The sole is 37 mm thick under the heel with an offset of 8 mm. Brooks has replaced the short-lived DNA Zero foam with DNA Flash, which translates into an even more densely compressed texture to promote a more explosive energy return while running. And, of course, there's the carbon plate to guide runners to a smoother, faster run that requires less effort. Reviewers found the result convincing. They especially appreciated the stable and wide configuration of the platform. Without providing the same level of bounce as some of its competitors like the Nike Alphafly or the Saucony Endorphin Pro, the Brooks Hyperion Elite 2 puts on a good show. The ride is something very personal, so it's a shoe that could appeal to athletes who didn't like these other models.

Moving on to the upper, the stretch woven mesh is comfortable and well ventilated while providing precise foot lockdown. Moreover, it is remarkably roomy to please runners with wider feet. However, despite these pros, some testers did not like certain details. For example, the heel now features a moderately thick layer that some runners found irritating to the tendon. Similarly, the thin tongue tends to move while running, which is not convenient.

Overall, the Brooks Hyperion Elite 2 is a clear step up over the first model. Its comfort and springy cushioning make it a great running shoe for competition despite some flaws.

Think rocky terrain. Imagine wet weather or crossing a creek in the woods. Picture maneuvering over and around rocks and tree roots. Does any of this sound like you? If so, the Merrell MQM Flex 2.0 GTX is designed for outdoor enthusiasts like you! Fitting snuggly enough to support your feet and providing waterproof protection against the elements, the Flex 2 does it all. From hiking to trail running, this is one shoe that's versatile enough for any adventure.

When it comes to the midsole, the Flex 2.0 is cushioned to absorb shock. In fact, the shoe is crafted with a rock plate between the midsole and outsole to protect feet better. With FLEXconnect technology for enhanced agility and the tried and true Merrell Air Cushion in the heel for proper foot alignment, this midsole is a hiker's dream. Meanwhile, the upper is a waterproof mesh, which means that your foot can breathe without absorbing outside moisture. The shoe's wide tongue supports this design, as it's attached to the sides of the upper for added protection. Finally, the Quantum Grip outsole grips terrain and helps control footing, especially when hiking downhill.

Though users of the Flex 2.0 listed its versatility as a plus, some complained that the shoe was too versatile. Basically, in catering to a range of trail activities, the shoe is not specialized or technical enough. Some users remarked that the Flex 2.0 fell short on longer or more complex hikes, where more rigidity would have been useful. Others noticed that the toe box is very narrow, posing a problem for those with wider feet. However, those who enjoy recreational trail runs and hikes may find that the Flex 2.0 is exactly what they need!

Note that the Flex 2.0 comes with GTX (Gore-Tex) technology, or without. GTX is what makes this model waterproof, which adds a significant price jump to an otherwise standard shoe. Users who tested GTX said it worked well for light rain but would not work in unpredictable weather. Thus, the price may not warrant the "waterproof" delineation.

The MQM Flex 2.0 is available for $110, making it a cost-effective option for short, easy hikes. The GTX version of the 2.0 is priced at $140, which is probably better skipped.

In short, the lightweight and versatile profile of the Merrell MQM Flex 2.0 makes it a good option for trail runners who moonlight as hikers or the other way around.

The Saucony Switchback 2 has many new and exciting features while retaining the beloved elements of the original version. With its low stack height, low drop, flexible material, and dynamic PWWRUN midsole technology, the Switchback 2 is an interesting choice for trailers looking for a nice ground feel while running. The PWRRUN midsole that blends EVA and TPU contributes to a soft and yet bouncy ride, which runners noted was a significant upgrade to the shoe. This technology replaces the EVERUN midsole found in the original Switchback and makes the Switchback 2 a bit denser for added stability. The PWRRUN midsole, combined with a woven rock plate, protects the foot and keeps it secure. Despite the rock plate addition, the Switchback 2 still molds nicely to the terrain and makes each stride snappy. The shoe's sock-like upper provides added flexibility and comfort; however, some runners remarked that they could feel sharp rocks and pebbles. One unique feature of the Switchback 2 is its BOA side lacing system. While at first glance, this type of lacing may seem to inhibit foot security, runners remarked that it works. The shoe stays snug all over the foot, without individual pressure points, and can be adjusted with a quick twist of the BOA. In terms of grip, the medium-size lugs (3.5 mm) provide excellent traction on moderate terrains. Trailers were surprised by how effective they were in comparison to their shallow profile. Though the Switchback 2 received a lot of positive feedback from users, there were a few notable pitfalls of the shoe. For one, the fit is secure, but not locked-in enough to perform on more technical trails. The upper also lacks breathability and absorbs the sharp edges of rocks and other terrain debris. Runners also noted that the Switchback 2 isn't soft enough for long runs and may prove uncomfortable after a while if you're not used to low stack shoes. To summarize, the Saucony Switchback 2 is a good low stack/low drop trail running shoe best suited for moderate terrain and short to mid distances.