When it comes to chasing your next personal best, the right shoes can make all the difference. The latest carbon-plated running shoes offer incredible energy return, lightweight designs, and cutting-edge technology — perfect for smashing records at any distance.
At Running Bear, we’ve handpicked the best carbon-plated race shoes of 2025 (and late 2024), so you can find the perfect pair for your next big race.
Here are our top five favourites this year:
1️⃣ Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
Leading the way for 2025 is the updated Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 — a shoe that combines maximum cushioning with a super-efficient carbon plate for explosive race-day speed. The Elite 2 takes the innovative IncrediRUN foam to the next level with improved durability and responsiveness.
✅ Ultralight IncrediRUN midsole with exceptional rebound
✅ Full-length carbon plate with aggressive SPEEDROLL geometry
✅ New upper for a more secure, breathable fit
➡️ Shop the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2
2️⃣ Hoka Cielo X1 2.0
The latest version of Hoka’s fastest shoe yet — the Cielo X1 2.0 — delivers maximum propulsion with a surprising level of comfort. The aggressive rocker and refined carbon plate geometry help maintain a smooth, efficient stride even at marathon pace.
✅ Dual-density foam with an updated carbon plate
✅ Streamlined upper reduces weight while improving lockdown
✅ Designed for fast half and full marathon efforts
3️⃣ Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
The Saucony Endorphin Pro 4 continues to be a favourite for runners who want a balanced carbon-plated racer. It brings a slightly softer ride compared to the Elite, making it a versatile choice for both training and racing.
✅ New PWRRUN HG + PWRRUN PB midsole blend for bounce and comfort
✅ Carbon plate and SPEEDROLL technology for forward momentum
✅ Secure fit with improved comfort over long distances
➡️ Shop the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4
4️⃣ ON Cloudboom Strike
ON’s most advanced racing shoe to date, the Cloudboom Strike, delivers an ultra-responsive feel for fast marathon and half marathon runners. With a unique dual-layer CloudTec® midsole and Speedboard® carbon plate, it’s designed to feel explosive at every step.
✅ Lightweight and incredibly responsive
✅ New upper material for breathability and race-day comfort
✅ Speedboard® plate enhances forward drive
➡️ Shop the ON Cloudboom Strike
Why Choose a Carbon-Plated Running Shoe?
Carbon-plated shoes are designed for one thing: speed. They deliver greater propulsion, reduce fatigue by improving running economy, and help you maintain pace longer — making them ideal for competitive runners on race day.
Not sure which one is right for you? Our team at Running Bear offers expert advice and fittings in-store, plus you can try them on our treadmill to feel the difference yourself.
Shop the Best Running Shoes at Running Bear
Ready to level up your race-day performance? At Running Bear, we stock the latest carbon-plated running shoes from Saucony, Hoka, ON, Asics and more — both in-store and online.
➡️ Browse all race-day running shoes
➡️ Book your free gait analysis