The 6 trainers I recommend for police or firefighter exams: Speed and endurance in a single model

At RUNNEA we compile a list of the best shoes for police or firefighter exams every year, but we receive queries from candidates every week telling us that the list is too extensive and asking us to condense it into 3-4 options. So, I've decided to select the 6 shoes that I recommend the most for endurance and speed tests. 3 without a carbon plate and 3 with a plate. It should be noted that some of these models are not the most recommended for skill circuits as shoes with good support and stability are required, while in speed and endurance tests we look for lightness, some cushioning (if the running technique is not very refined) and reactivity. Let's get on with our selection...

Physical tests: Speed and endurance

Speed: Speed tests are usually carried out on outdoor tracks and the distance can vary, from 50 to 300 metres. The time marks expected for each distance are specific and the shorter the duration, the higher the participant's score. In some calls, a degree of difficulty is added by having the participants carry a certain weight object. A useful tip for those who have practised athletics and have excellent running technique is to use spike shoes (if you have never run with spikes we do not recommend it).

Endurance: Endurance is another fundamental pillar in the physical preparation for these roles. The distances in these tests can vary between 1000 and 3000 metres, and the time marks expected are specific for each distance. In some calls, tests such as the Cooper Test are chosen, which consists of running a distance of approximately 2800-3000 metres in a maximum time of 12 minutes.

Recommended models without a carbon plate

New Balance Fuelcell Rebel v3

What we liked the most: Its lightness and the FuelCell technology in the midsole, which provides excellent response and cushioning. This model is ideal for those looking for a versatile shoe that can handle both speed and endurance. The mesh upper allows excellent breathability, which is crucial during endurance tests. For candidates up to 75 kg.

Nike ZoomX StreakFly

What we liked the most: The ZoomX technology in the midsole that offers a quick response, ideal for speed tests. The lightweight mesh upper and streamlined design make this trainer an excellent choice to maximise your speed. For applicants up to 70-72 kg.

ASICS Superblast

What we liked the most: Its exceptional cushioning and GEL technology, which protects the joints in endurance tests. The mesh upper allows excellent breathability, and the high-abrasion rubber sole ensures durability. For applicants up to 85- 90 kg.

Recommended models with carbon plate

It should be noted that for a more personalised shoe recommendation, we would need to know the physical characteristics of the candidate. Knowing whether their running technique is good or not, specifying the endurance and speed test... that's why in shoes with carbon plates I have chosen to recommend models that are not radical in terms of needing excellent running technique and but under 70 kg (the top of the range with carbon plates are aimed at this type of profile). And I have opted for 3 shoes with some cushioning and foot support to broaden the range of use to medium weight candidates.

Puma Deviate Nitro 2

What we liked the most: The carbon plate is not so radical, which makes it versatile for different types of tests. The NITRO FOAM technology in the midsole offers a combination of response and cushioning, making it an excellent option for speed and endurance tests. For candidates up to 85- 90 kg.

New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v3

What we liked the most: The incorporation of a carbon plate that improves stride efficiency, but with enough cushioning for endurance tests. The lightweight mesh upper and the FuelCell midsole make this shoe a balanced option for various tests. For candidates up to 75 kg.

HOKA Mach X

What we liked the most: The combination of lightness, cushioning and its carbon plate, ideal for endurance tests without sacrificing speed. The EVA midsole provides exceptional cushioning, while the rubber outsole offers durable traction on various surfaces. The plate gives you that extra boost you need in these types of tests. For candidates up to 80-85 kg.

Preparation for Police or Firefighter exams is a process that requires meticulous attention to every detail, including the equipment you are going to use. The shoes we have recommended in this report offer an ideal combination of speed and cushioning, making them excellent options for facing the physical tests in the best possible way.