Best Plastic-Plated Running Shoes for Fall 2023
Carbon-plated shoes get all the shine on race day, but plastic-plated shoes do the heavy lifting during training. Here are the best options.
Not all plated shoes are created equally. Some are designed for racing, others for fast training, and others still for easy running. There are full-length plates, midfoot shanks and various geometries that cater to differing biomechanics. And there are differences in plate material, with the trusty old-carbon fiber plate as the tried-and-true option as well as alternatives like TPU, nylon and Pebax. Here, we dive into the latter category to serve up the best running shoes with a plastic plate.
Best Running Shoes with a Plastic Plate
Carbon-plated shoes get all the shine on race day, but plastic-plated shoes do the heavy lifting during training. While it's good to switch between plated and non-plated shoes during training to build strength in your leg muscles, plastic plated shoes offer some of the efficiency and propulsion benefits of carbon plates without the harsh feeling. Below, we rounded up five of the best plastic-plated shoes on the market.
1. Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 ($170): Best All-Around Nylon Plated Running Shoes
The Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 is king of the plastic-plated running shoes. It was originally released in 2020 as a non-carbon training alternative to the Endorphin Pro, and it's now reached cult classic status within the enthusiast running community due to the versatile ride offered in a fun package. The Speed 3 uses a full PEBA-based midsole called PWWRUN PB paired with a winged nylon plate. The foam offers a bouncy and soft ride, while the plate adds stability and structure. If you're looking for a plastic plated shoe that can handle everything from aerobic-paced jogs around the neighborhood to mile repeats, the Speed 3 is a great option. It can also serve as a race day shoe if you don't want to buy a carbon-plated racer, which tend to be $50+ more expensive.
Saucony Endorphin Speed 3
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2. Hoka Mach X ($180): Best Plastic-Plated Shoe for Marathon Training
The Hoka Mach X is the nearest competitor to the Saucony Endorphin Speed 3. It builds on the success of Hoka's Mach 5 shoe, which has a soft, smooth and cushioned ride, and introduces a PEBA foam layer to the mix. It also brings in a plastic plate in between the PEBA foam and EVA layer. The result is a ride that's highly versatile and comfort-oriented. The plate makes it easy to pick up the pace, while the dual-foam setup maintains the soft and cushioned feel that defines the Mach series. The Mach X is a great option for long runs, tempo efforts and high-mileage weeks during marathon training where you could use some help to relieve the fatigue in your legs.
Hoka Mach X
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3. On Cloudmonster ($170): Best Max Cushioned Shoe with a Plastic Plate
The On Cloudmonster is a max cushioned trainer with a stable and smooth ride. Underfoot, there's a bed of On's trademark CloudTec pods, which are fashioned out of EVA-based Helion foam and fastened to a plastic plate that On calls the Speedboard. On's plastic plate is unique in that it sits directly under the foot (below the sockliner), in contrast to the other shoes which sandwich it between two layers of foam. The Speedboard is also thicker and less flexible than other plastic plates, which provides a snappy and propulsive ride—which is enhanced by an aggressive rocker and responsive pods. The On Cloudmonster is a great option for relaxed running, longer efforts and cross-training, as it's comfortable, stable and can pick it up when you need it to.
On Cloudmonster
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4. New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 ($110): Most Affordable Plastic Plated Shoe
The New Balance FuelCell Propel v4 comes in as the most affordable plastic plated shoe at $110. It uses New Balance's soft and bouncy FuelCell cushioning which can also be found in the Rebel and SC Elite series. In the Propel, there's a tall stack of the foam, which provides a soft and cushioned underfoot feel that's most at home for easy paces. The foam is responsive enough for tempo runs, though the weight (10.7 ounces for US mens size 9) means there are better options for true speedwork. However, if you're looking for your plated shoe, are a bigger runner or want a plated shoe with cushion and support, the Propel v4 is a great option.
5. On Cloudstratus 3 ($180): Best Plastic Plated Daily Trainer
The On Cloudstratus is a comfortable daily trainer with a versatile ride. Similar to the Cloudmonster, it pairs a CloudTec-cushioned midsole with a plastic Speedboard close to the foot. The foam in the Cloudstratus is a touch firmer than in the Cloudmonster, which provides a snappier and more responsive ride when moving at pace. The upper is also generously padded around the back with a plastic heel clip for extra stability, making this a supportive everyday running option for everything from recovery runs to tempo days.
Final Thoughts
Plastic-plated shoes are a great alternative to carbon racers for runners looking for a more comfortable experience or who don't want to shell out $200+ for a pair of shoes. From the cushioned Cloudmonster to the peppy Endorphin Speed 3, there's a plastic-plated shoe for every use case. If you're wondering what the best option is for you, head to our shoe matching tool where we'll pair you with the best shoe bssed on your goals and preferences.
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