Hyrox is a unique beast. It’s half running, half functional workout. You run 1km, then do a station like a sled push or wall balls, and repeat this eight times. It’s a grueling test of both endurance and strength.

This unique format creates a big dilemma for choosing the right shoes. You need something fast for the 8km of running, but you also need stability and grip for the heavy lifting and dynamic movements at the stations. You won’t probably have problems in stations like Ski Erg, but you might suffer in Sled Pull or Push and Lunges.

Enter the “magic shoes”: carbon fiber super shoes. These running shoes have revolutionized marathon running, helping athletes smash world records. But are they good for Hyrox? Are they better than the shoes reviewed in our previous article?

Let’s dive in.

The Carbon Fiber Dilemma in Hyrox

Carbon fiber shoes are designed for one thing: running fast in a straight line. They have a stiff carbon plate inside a thick layer of super-soft, bouncy foam. This combination acts like a spring, propelling you forward with every step and saving your legs energy.

The Good:

• Speed: They will almost certainly make your 8km of running feel easier and faster. You’ll save energy on the runs that you can use on the stations.
• Leg Freshness: The cushioning can help keep your legs feeling fresher for longer, which is crucial in a long race like Hyrox.

The Bad:

• Instability: The high stack of soft foam makes these shoes inherently unstable. This is a big problem for exercises like lunges, wall balls, and the farmer’s carry, where you need a solid, stable base.
• Grip: The outsoles of these shoes are designed for road running, not for gripping artificial turf while pushing a heavy sled. You might find yourself slipping, which wastes precious time and energy.
• Durability: Carbon fiber shoes are expensive and not built for the abuse of a Hyrox race. The exposed foam can get chewed up by the sleds and other equipment.

In short, you’re trading stability and grip on the stations for pure speed on the runs. Is it a worthy trade-off? That depends on your strengths. If you’re a strong runner who struggles with the stations, the instability might be too much. If you’re a powerhouse on the stations but need help on the runs, they could be a game-changer.

The Shoe Review: 3 Contenders

Let’s look at three popular (and on top of the market in 2026) carbon fiber shoes and how they might stack up for Hyrox.

1. Nike Vaporfly 4

The Nike Vaporfly is the original super shoe and remains a top choice for elite runners.

• For Hyrox Running: It’s incredibly light, soft, and bouncy. It will make you feel fast.
• For Hyrox Stations: This is a risky choice. It’s very unstable due to its soft foam and narrow heel. You might struggle with balance on wall balls and lunges. The outsole grip is also not designed for sleds.
• Verdict: A high-risk, high-reward option. Best for elite athletes with excellent stability who can handle the stations even in an unstable shoe.

2. Asics Magic Speed 4

The Asics Magic Speed 4 is designed as a faster training shoe or a racer for those who don’t want the extreme softness of a top-tier super shoe.

• For Hyrox Running: It has a carbon plate and some bouncy foam, so it’s fast, but it feels firmer and more stable than the Vaporfly.
• For Hyrox Stations: Its firmer ride and slightly wider base make it more stable than the Vaporfly, which is a big plus for Hyrox. The grip is decent.
• Verdict: A more balanced choice. You get some of the carbon fiber speed benefit without sacrificing as much stability. It’s a safer bet for most Hyrox athletes.

3. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4

The Adios Pro 4 is another top-tier racer known for its speed and unique feel.

• For Hyrox Running: It’s fast, cushioned, and has a strong rocker that pushes you forward.
• For Hyrox Stations: It’s known to be a bit unstable, especially in the heel. This could be an issue for exercises where you need a planted heel. The outsole is grippy on the road, but results on sled turf can vary.
• Verdict: Similar to the Vaporfly, it’s a speed-focused shoe that sacrifices stability. It might work for some, but be prepared for a wobbly feel on the stations.

Conclusion: To Wear or Not to Wear?

So, are carbon fiber shoes good for Hyrox? The answer is… it depends.

There’s no doubt they will help you run faster. But for many athletes, the loss of stability and grip on the stations isn’t worth the time gained on the run.

If you’re considering them, here’s my advice:

1. Test them first! Do not wear a new pair of shoes on race day. Do a full Hyrox simulation workout in them to see how they handle the sleds, lunges, and wall balls.
2. Know your weaknesses. If you’re already unstable on lunges, these shoes will make it worse.
3. Consider a “plated trainer.” Shoes like the Asics Magic Speed 4 offer a good middle ground, giving you some speed without being dangerously unstable.

Ultimately, the best shoe for you is the one you feel most confident in across the entire race, not just the running parts.