What are the best carbon plate running shoes in 2026? Here are 10 top picks for chasing your next PB

Carbon-plate running shoes have become increasingly popular when it comes to choosing the best running shoes for race-day and fast efforts. They help slash run times and encourage a more energy-efficient stride, while their propulsion is often off the charts.

But with great speed often comes great price tags to consider. More than any other shoe, you want bang for your buck in a carbon kicker, which is why we’ve laid out our favourites in this article and why we’d recommend them. While the science and results sing the praises of these supershoes, not all are equal. When choosing your carbon shoe, it’s best to ask yourself what are your race goals and your ballpark budget?

If you’re unsure, scroll to the bottom for some sage buying advice. Otherwise, read on for our expert roundup of the best carbon-plate running shoes available right now…

Best carbon-plate running shoes in 2026

1. Asics Metaspeed Sky Tokyo

Opening the box containing Asics’ new Metaspeed Sky Tokyo, I got sensory overload… and then sensory underload. The bright Flash Red/Black colour scheme is striking and positive, and I like it a lot. Out of the box, the most striking thing is the weight, or lack of it. At an official 129g/4.55oz, they’re barely there, and most importantly, these are fast shoes.

The spring from the carbon plate is obvious just walking around, and on the run they deliver exactly what you’d expect from the Metaspeed line. Interval sessions felt sharp, and a parkrun resulted in a comfortable overperformance.

That speed comes from bouncy FF LEAP and FF TURBO PLUS cushioning and a 5mm drop, creating aggressive energy return without sogginess. Grip is excellent, the minimal upper fits my slightly wide feet well, and the serrated laces never slip.

There is a caveat. As a heel striker, I found them punishing over marathon distance and would steer similar runners towards the Metaspeed Edge Tokyo. But midfoot and forefoot strikers, you’re in luck. For me over shorter distances, these are among the best supershoes available, being simultaneously light, aggressive, comfortable, and uber quick.

2. Brooks Hyperion Elite 5

The first thing I noticed about the Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 was how visible my socks were—the ultra-thin silicon mesh upper is almost transparent. This stripped-down design keeps the weight to just 195g (6.9oz), making it one of the lightest racing shoes available.

Despite its minimal build, the mesh wraps comfortably around the foot, while the carbon SpeedVault+ plate and responsive PEBA foam deliver outstanding energy return and cushioning through bubble-like midsoles. The Hyperion Elite 5 feels fast and springy at marathon pace, yet maintains the firmness needed for 5ks or speedwork.

What’s impressive though is its versatility, it’s equally stable and comfortable at easier paces, which is a rarity for a pure racing shoe. Meanwhile, the snug fit, padded tongue and heel, and serrated laces add security and comfort.

Light, responsive, and adaptable, the Hyperion Elite 5 is a genuine all-rounder for runners chasing both speed and comfort, just mind you don matching socks too!

3. Mizuno Wave Rebellion Wave 3

Straight out of the box, the Mizuno Wave Rebellion P…