u/Catsintinytinyhats

Update: Thanks everyone! Seemed tight between Azura and Superblast 2. Given that Superblast 2 are nearly sold out everywhere, I went ahead and ordered those first to try in a size up! Azura seems promising but less likely to sell out, and I do share concerns about friction points that some people mentioned.

Long time runner here, not a running shoe expert by any means.

I am looking for recommendations for easy run/long run/recovery shoe, ideally something that isn't too soft, too bouncy or too padded, but that will keep my legs relatively fresh.

Current mileage: 50-60 km
Long run: 12-18 km
Race distance: 5-10k, half marathon in the fall, potential marathon next year
Running form: typically midfoot striker

Current shoe roster: Endorphin Pro 3 (race), Megablast (intervals/speed), Rincon 4 (previously my all rounder), Superblast 2 (current all rounder, i think i like them but theyre too small)

I went shoe shopping and tried 2 i liked, but felt totally different:

- Saucony Azura: Pretty firm, but bouncy. Comfortable, pronouced rocker. Not sure if they are a good long run/recovery run shoe based on comments, I am reading mixed things)

- Brooks Ghost 18: Apparently very new. Super comfortable, but didn't feel very responsive and felt quite close to the ground. These seem to be a long run favourite for many, but I am not sure if they would be forgiving on the legs for long runs.

Other options:

- Superblast 2

- Nike Vomero Plus : I didn't get to try these on, but I am ready really good things. Seem to be on the softer side

Hi, long time runner here, but not very well versed in running shoes.

I’m looking for a running shoe for easy runs and long runs. Right now my long runs are around 50 to 90 minutes and my weekly mileage is about 40 to 50 km (around 30 miles). I’m currently training for shorter races like the 5K and 10K, but will probably do a half marathon in the fall.

I already have a speed shoe (Megablast) for intervals, but I’m looking for a trainer for longer and easier efforts.

I bought a pair of Superblast 2s that I really enjoyed, but unfortunately I bought them too small, so I’ll be selling them and am looking for a new pair. Aside from the obvious option of just blind buying the Superblast 2 in a slightly larger size, I tried on the Azura and the Brooks Ghost 18 today.

Both were really comfortable, but in completely different ways. The Azura felt more cushioned and a bit zippier with the rocker, while the Ghost felt lower to the ground and less responsive, but almost like a hug for your feet with that tongue. I can't justify both unfortunately.

I read the Brooks Ghost was a great long run shoe and Azura seems more oriented towards speed, but my concern with the Ghost is that feeling more much to the ground might feel harsher on my legs over longer runs.

Does anyone have feedback on either of these shoes for long runs?

Thanks!