Is the market tired of carbon plate shoes? I don't think so, but we are starting to see an increasingly widespread trend: running shoes with very good cushioning: very light, but also very fast. In other words, super shoes with very good cushioning. Today in RUNNEA, I present 4 models that are the best on the market if you are looking for a shoe with which to train and compete; especially if you do not want to move to a carbon plate model. We're talking about the New Balance Fuelcell Rebel v4, Hoka Mach 6, Brooks Hyperion Max and Asics Superblast.
New Balance Fuelcell Rebel v44
The New Balance FuelCell Rebel v4 are shaping up to be one of the most notable releases of 2024, and a possible contender for the RUNNEA 2024 Awards. These shoes are designed for high-end training and racing, delivering an effective blend of efficiency and dynamism. With a comprehensive overhaul from their predecessors, the Rebel v4 marks a new era in the FuelCell range, recapturing the popularity that the v2 version achieved. We loved the reactivity of its midsole, which incorporates both Fuelcell foam and Pebax.
- Weight: Very light. 201g men's size 9.
- Drop: Moderate 6mm.
- Neutral cushioning: Ideal for runners with a neutral stride, offering a balance between support and flexibility.
- Build: Suitable for runners with a slim to medium build.
- Surface: Specially designed for road running.
- Use: Suitable for different types of training and races and at fast paces.
- Support: Promotes efficient toe and midfoot support.
Recommended distances
Ideal for short distances, 10K to half marathon.
Type of runner
Optimized for runners up to 75kg for men and 65kg for women. Suitable for intermediate and high running paces, under 4:30 min/km. Optimal for races.
What sets them apart
New Balance continue to give us spectacular designs in 2024. And in this case the combination of speed and comfort is incredible.
Hoka Mach 6
The Hoka Mach 6 represents the evolution of a flagship model in the Hoka running shoes range. With a design that prioritises simplicity and efficiency, this shoe has established itself as a favorite among the fastest non-professional runners. At first glance, they may seem simple, but inside they harbor a number of innovations and features that win the admiration of everyone who tries them.
- New Super Critical EVA foam: The Mach 6 introduces a revolutionary Super Critical EVA foam in the midsole, a material noted for its lightness and responsiveness, suerly starting a trend in future Hoka models.
- Unified midsole: Unlike its predecessor (that used Profly X technology with two layers of foam of different densities), the Mach 6 opts for a full midsole of the new material to improve running feel and dynamism.
- Design: Without incorporating plates or excessive profiles, the Mach 6 stands out for its ability to enhance the muscular work and biomechanics of the foot, offering a more natural running experience. They have a 5mm drop.
- New outsole: The Mach 6's new outsole includes rubber, an addition intended to extend its durability without sacrificing smoothness and fluidity in the transition.
Recommended distances
The Hoka Mach 6 is an excellent choice for runners looking to tackle distances from 10k, half marathons or even marathons (if you weigh less than 70 kg).
Type of runner
Specially designed for light and medium-weight runners, the Mach 6 is characterized by its lightness and responsiveness. Perfect for intermediate and high paces (under 4:30 min/km).
This model is ideal for quality daily training as well as for competitions. Ideal for races!
What sets them apart from the rest
They are the most stable of the four models reviews here. They are also the ones that most encourage mid-foot landing.
ASICS Superblast
The Asics Superblast established themselves as one of the most different and promising options for 2023. Although they do not feature a carbon plate, this shoe enters the supershoe market with force, challenging the big plate shoe on the market with a unique combination of features. The Superblast is distinguished by its design, performance and light weight- although its price is the highest of the four models reviewed here.
- Weight: Surprisingly light for its volume, at 238g in Men's size 9 US.
- Drop: 8mm drop, with 43mm in the heel and 35mm in the forefoot, providing substantial cushioning without the need for a carbon plate. A good choice for heel strikers.
- Cushioning: The Superblast is ideal for neutral-footed runners, offering a smooth and efficient running experience.
- Build: Suitable for runners with a slim to medium build (up to 85kg).
- Surface: Designed specifically for road, maximizing performance on urban surfaces.
- Use: Versatile for different types of training and competitions, ideal for those looking for dynamism and reactivity.
- Support: Focused on efficient heel and midfoot support, adaptable to different running techniques.
Recommended distances
Although it is capable of handling various distances, the Superblast shines especially in short and medium distances (from 10K to marathon).
Typology of runner
Optimal for runners up to 85kg, excelling in runners with paces under 4:30 min/km. Its design and technology make it suitable for both intense training and competitions.
What sets them apart
The Asics Superblast stands out for its bold and modern design, combining aesthetics and functionality exceptionally. Despite their large volume, the shoes maintains a remarkable lightness and dynamism, offering a fast and comfortable running experience.
They are the most cushioned of the four, but also the least suitable for competitions, as their high profile makes them somewhat unstable compared to the rest.
Brooks Hyperion Max
The Brooks Hyperion Max have been on the market for more than a year, but are still one of the best options for running fast- especially if you appreciate shoes that are well cushioned. This model, which is part of Brooks' acclaimed Hyperion family, is specially designed for runners looking to reach high speeds without sacrificing quality cushioning. The weight is around 210 grams in a size 9 US.
- Weight: Ultralight, weighing only 211g in size 9 US, which makes them ideal for runners looking for a very agile but cushioned shoe.
- Drop: An 8mm drop provides optimal balance for a variety of running styles.
- Cushioning: High level of cushioning thanks to DNA Flash technology in the midsole, offering protection and a lively response.
- Build: Perfect for runners with a slim build, providing a snug fit and support. Up to 75kg.
- Gait: Designed for runners with a neutral stride.
- Surface: Specially optimised for road running.
- Use: Ideal for training at high paces.
- Support: Focused mainly on heel support.
Recommended distances
The Brooks Hyperion Max are suitable for all distances, from short runs to marathons, providing consistent performance.
Type of runner
The Brooks Hyperion Max are optimal for runners up to 75kg for men and 65kg for women, offering exceptional performance within these ranges.
They are particularly suitable for intense training sessions, including series, fartleks and workouts. They are also versatile for running at slower paces, adapting well to different intensities.
What sets them apart
In addition to being fast, these shoes offer impressive stability, making them ideal for workouts and racing.
In terms of comfort, however, they may be the least comfortable of the four.
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