HiWings by Hiracer Review: The $180 Super Shoe Disrupting the Marathon Scene
GEAR & SHOE REVIEWSTOP STORIES
The "Super Shoe" market is dominated by household names and $250+ price tags. But at the recent TRE (The Running Event), I discovered a brand that most American runners haven't heard of yet: Hiracer.
Based in China and entering the U.S. market primarily online, Hiracer is bringing high-level technology to the roads at a fraction of the cost. I’m notoriously picky about my race day footwear—usually sticking strictly to the Nike Alphafly or Hoka Cielo X1—so I went into this test with high standards and a healthy dose of skepticism.
The HiWings Pro didn’t just meet those standards; it might have actually reset them. Here is the full breakdown.
Model and Purpose
The HiWings Pro is a dedicated marathon shoe built for long-distance efficiency. It is designed for:
Runners looking for maximum energy return
Athletes seeking stability during high-intensity race efforts
Marathoners wanting a high-performance carbon plate on a budget
Hiracer categorizes the HiWings Pro as a professional racing shoe, aiming to provide the same "pop" and speed as the industry leaders but with a more stable, durable foundation.
Specs Compared: HiWings Pro vs. Nike Alphafly 3
To see how this newcomer stacks up against the "Gold Standard," I weighed and measured them side-by-side.
Weight
HiWings Pro: 6.4 oz (182g) - Measured in Men's Size 9
Nike Alphafly 3: 6.4 oz (182g) - Measured in Men's Size 8.5 The HiWings Pro is incredibly light—a half-size larger shoe weighing the exact same as the Alphafly is an impressive feat of engineering.
Heel Drop
HiWings Pro: 4 mm (37mm heel / 33mm forefoot)
Nike Alphafly 3: 8 mm The 4mm drop is less aggressive than the Alphafly, providing a more natural feel that remains fast without being overly taxing on the calves.
Stability & Cushion
While the Alphafly is known for its "bouncy ball" feel, it can be unstable. The HiWings Pro feels noticeably more stable underfoot, offering a secure landing that is rare in the super shoe category.
Color Options & Price
The HiWings Pro comes in two primary colorways:
"Red" (Actual look: Pink, Purple, and Gold): A loud, shiny aesthetic for runners who want to stand out.
Blue: A beautiful, tamer light blue for those who prefer a classic look.
Price:
$180 Compared to the $285+ price tag of most carbon-plated racers, this is a massive value play.
Key Features
Microfoam High-Fiber Upper
The upper is a technologically transparent mesh created by injecting carbon dioxide and nitrogen into the yarn. This makes it 30% lighter and more breathable than standard mesh. It has zero stretch, which is exactly what you want for lockdown at high speeds.
"Magic Carpet" Midsole
The midsole features double-layered supercritical sheet foam. Unlike foam poured into molds, these sheets are pressed for a more uniform bubble structure, resulting in an 80% energy return that doesn't go flat after 50 miles.
8-Layer Kevlar-Reinforced Carbon Plate
Visible through the foam is a gold, 8-layer multi-directional carbon fiber plate. It is reinforced with Kevlar at the midfoot to prevent snapping and maintain the plate's "memory" over hundreds of miles.
All Ground Control System (AGCS)
The outsole is made of PU (polyurethane)—the same material used on professional tracks. It provides superior grip on wet surfaces, turning this into a true all-weather racing shoe.
First Impressions
When I first saw the HiWings Pro on the wall at TRE, I was instantly attracted to the loud colors and the gold carbon plate. I had never heard of Hiracer before, but picking it up, I realized it was serious. It felt premium, feather-light, and looked like it meant business. I was allowed to take a pair home to test, and I couldn't wait to see if the performance matched the flashy exterior.
On-Foot Running Experience
After testing these for three long Sunday runs (13–15 miles each) at faster-than-marathon pace, here is what stood out:
Extreme Lightweight: Lighter on foot than almost anything in my rotation.
Aggressive Bounciness: The forefoot pop is equal to the Alphafly, especially when you are pushing the pace.
Superior Wet Grip: I ran in the rain and felt significantly more secure on slick pavement than I do in my Nikes.
Comfortable Lockdown: The ribbed laces stay tied, and the one-piece upper is soft enough to wear sockless without chafing.
Final Verdict
Is the HiWings Pro a "real" racing shoe? Yes. It isn’t just a budget alternative; it is a top-tier performer that happens to be affordable.
Choose the HiWings Pro if:
You want elite energy return and a carbon plate for under $200
You prefer a more stable, grounded feel during long races
You race in wet conditions and need superior traction
You love loud, vibrant shoe designs
Stick with the Alphafly if:
You prefer a higher 8mm drop
You specifically want the AirPod feel under the forefoot
You aren't ready to move away from established "big brand" heritage
This shoe is so good that I'm saving my pair specifically for my next race day. Hiracer is a brand to watch.