Light, fast shoes that reviewers rate for 5K and 10K races and parkrun PBs: firmer and more nimble than marathon super shoes.
12 current models, ranked by their average score from published reviews (how we rank). Updated October 2026. Want a personal pick? Try the shoe finder.
Over short distances, low weight and a snappy, stable ride matter more than maximum cushioning. Shoes built for 5K and 10K usually have a lower stack and a firmer feel, so they feel quick through corners and on tight parkrun courses.
If you also race longer, a marathon super shoe works well over 10K too. For a cheaper option, a plated super trainer is a great parkrun shoe.
ASICS' lightest super shoe, built on full-length FF Leap foam and a minimal three-quarter carbon plate. Remarkably light and lively, but the narrow midfoot asks for a steady, efficient stride.
A carbon-plated PEBA racer with a higher drop and a stable, forgiving platform. It suits heel strikers and runners who want a durable race shoe rather than the bounciest one.
A very light carbon-plated racer for 5K to the marathon with a stable, controlled ride and a gentler rocker than the Fast-R. Priced below most rival super shoes in the UK.
adidas's low-slung 5K-10K racer pairs Lightstrike Pro with carbon EnergyRods for quick, low-inertia turnover. This version is softer and friendlier than before, with superb grip, but gives up some snap at full effort.
A low-stack, zero-drop speed shoe with Altra's new FAST PCE foam and a breathable knit upper. It suits short, quick sessions for runners used to minimal shoes, but offers little protection for long runs.
Altra's first full super shoe, with a max-stack PEBA midsole, a split-toe carbon plate and a 4mm drop. It rolls smoothly at marathon and threshold pace, but fits snugger than usual for Altra.
232 g4 mm dropCarbon platepropulsiverockered£220 RRP
A light, low-slung speed shoe with VFOAM for intervals, track repeats and short races. Firm and connected underfoot, it rewards fast running rather than easy miles.
An ultralight, low-stack carbon racer built for 5K to 10K speed. It is fast and grippy for short efforts but has too little foam for half or full marathons.
Nike
ASICS
HOKA
PUMA
New Balance
adidas
Altra
Kiprun
