We look at the top road running footwear for athletes who are looking to end the year with a PB
These reviews are independent and unbiased views based on running real miles in these shoes. This piece contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you purchase using these links.
New and updated November 2024
Diadora – Gara Carbon – £250.00
Returning to the running scene with a vengeance, Diadora has produced a top-quality racer that feels every bit as competitive as the other ‘big brand’ names.
The Gara Carbon features a full-length plate and combines it with a proprietary foam, Anima PBX, a PEBAS made with super-critical foaming to increase energy return and reduce weight. From the first few steps in the shoe, it feels as good as every other super shoe on the market right now and even better in some areas as it feels stable and controlled as both the miles and speed increase.

Diadora Gara Carbon
The Italian styling features a beautifully fitting upper that uses Matryx mesh, a material that uses carbon yarns for strength, added structure, and durability. Of course, the gold-coloured accents give the shoe a classically appealing aesthetic. The shoe performs as well as it looks, and with a range of training models soon to be released to back it up, Diadora is certainly sure of making an impressive return.
Puma – Deviate NITRO Elite 3 – £195.00
When it’s time to pick up the pace a little, the Nitro Elite 3 is Puma’s premier race day option favoured by its sponsored athletes. Offering a super-smooth ride with a highly propulsive toe-off, the Nitro Elite 3 combines full-length NITROFOAM with a carbon plate for a fast, energised feel.
A maxed-out stack height of (race legal) 40mm provides ample cushioning even for the marathon distance, and when the pace really picks up, the benefit of the full-length carbon fibre plate is highly evident.

Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 3
The shoe’s upper is a mono-layer mesh that keeps the weight down yet provides a good, dialled-in fit. A PUMAGRIP outsole ensures great traction in any conditions to get the most out of these fast-moving racers!
Buy the Puma Nitro Elite 3 here
Brooks – Hyperion Elite 4 – £220.00
Brooks would be the first to admit that their early generation carbon-plated shoes were a little firm for many runners. Here, we see a lighter, softer and bouncier shoe with all-round improvements, making it a more capable contender.
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