On April 18, 30,000 runners will line up on Main Street in Hopkinton, Mass. and begin one of the world’s most difficult races — the Boston Marathon. They’ll have to fight for every step of the 26.2-mile journey that stands between them and Copley Square in the heart of Boston, but those who make it will have achieved one of the greatest honors in running.
Established in 1897, the Boston Marathon is the oldest annual marathon in the world. It’s also one of the most beloved. Inspired by the race and those who run it, some of your favorite brands are creating Boston Marathon versions of their top running shoes to help you celebrate this incredible event.
New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v2 Boston
The Fresh Foam Zante v2 is designed with one thing in mind: speed. The shoe’s breathable, bootie-fit upper eliminates bulky overlays that add weight and slow you down, while aggressive toe spring propels you forward for one fleet-footed ride.
The Fresh Foam Zante v2 Boston uses this fast platform to honor the city, incorporating details that celebrate its history and love of running. Varsity colors represent the many colleges and universities in the Boston area, paying homage to the great minds who have called the city home. Gold accents on the heel and laces bring to mind the excitement of finishing a race victorious.
The outsole and insole both feature a bold chevron pattern to remind runners to keep looking forward — a mantra many runners will need to keep in mind as they battle through the difficult hills of the Boston Marathon course. The insole also sports the outline of Massachusetts, with a heart marking Boston’s location.
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 16
A long-time staple for Brooks Running, the Adrenaline GTS 16 brings cushioning and support to runners who pronate or suffer from weak or flat arches. This is done through the BioMoGo DNA midsole, which adapts to each runner’s unique weight, gait, and chosen running surface for personalized comfort.
The Adrenaline GTS 16 Nantucket showcases a more lighthearted side of east coast culture, with a bright plaid pattern decorating the upper, tongue, and insole. The heel sports a sailboat and whale, a lobster perches on the shoelace lock, and an anchor on the insole sets a strong foundation for your run.
Nike Zoom Streak LT 3 and Free RN Distance
Varsity colors come back into play in Nike’s Boston Marathon shoes. These Patriots’ Day styles of the Free RN Distance and Zoom Streak LT 3 are decked out in red, white, and blue and feature yellow Boston shoutouts on the tongue, heel, insole, and laces to give them a unique look and feel.
The Free RN Distance combines two of Nike’s best technologies to provide a natural ride that can withstand longer distances. We have all the details here, but basically, the Free RN Distance has the extreme flexibility you love about the Nike Free line and soft Lunar cushioning to protect your foot and help you run farther.
The Zoom Streak LT 3 is a race-ready option designed for a fast, responsive ride. This unisex racing flat is only available in men’s sizes, so women will have to size down to achieve the snug fit needed for successful road racing.
Saucony Kinvara 7 and Triumph ISO 2
Making a departure from the blue and red hues of the other Boston Marathon shoes, Saucony takes its inspiration from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, specifically the MBTA’s oldest subway — the Green Line, which originated in 1897, the same year as the first Boston Marathon. Bostonians love to hate the Green Line for its slow pace and frequent delays, but it remains a classic piece of the city’s culture. And, while they may be inspired by the Green Line, these Saucony shoes will keep you moving at a faster pace.
Both the Boston Kinvara 7 and the Boston Triumph ISO 2 turn heads with their bold green color, but it’s the details others can’t see that set these shoes apart. Both feature printed insoles that match the seats of Boston’s public transportation system, and the tongues are emblazoned with “Inbound”, a welcoming message for those entering Boston or crossing the finish.
The Kinvara 7 delivers a firm, fast ride on the track, treadmill, or road. This sleek runner uses FLEXFILM overlays, originally part of Saucony’s racing line, as a supportive, lightweight exoskeleton for the foot.
For a plush ride, look to the continuous cushioning of the Triumph ISO 2. EVERUN midsole construction places a layer of cushioning closer to the foot than ever before, allowing for better response and ground feel. The highly durable material fights breakdown, so the Triumph ISO 2 can carry you through all 26.2 miles without ever missing a step.
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