Best Shoes for Speed & Tempo Workouts

When you're picking up the pace — intervals, tempo runs, or a hard finish to a long run — you want a shoe that's light, springy, and gets out of your way. Heavy, ultra-soft shoes soak up the energy you're trying to put into the ground; a good speed shoe does the opposite, snapping back off your toe and keeping you connected to the road. Some of these use a plate for extra pop, others are just light and lively. None of them are max-cushion couches, and that's the point. If you already have an everyday trainer and want a second shoe for your faster days, start here.