Running Footwear Matters: A Study (PHD) on the Impact of Advanced Footwear Technology | Find Your Stride | Edinburgh Podiatrist

Introduction

In his PhD study titled 'Running Footwear Matters' (2023), Víctor Rodrigo Carranza explores the transformative effects of Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) on running performance, particularly in road racing. This research investigates the characteristics that define AFT shoes and their implications for athletes. We thought it was worth a quick review.

How do you go about choosing your next pair of running trainers?

Characteristics of Advanced Footwear Technology

AFT shoes are notable for their lightweight design, innovative rocker shapes, embedded carbon fiber plates that enhance stiffness, and cushioned midsoles created from materials such as polyether block amide (PEBA). These features aim to improve running efficiency and performance.

Research Goals

Carranza’s study sought to evaluate how these shoe characteristics enhance athlete performance and efficiency. The research included retrospective analyses of performance data from top runners between 2015 and 2019, comparing results with and without the use of AFT shoes.

Key Findings

The findings reveal significant performance improvements associated with AFT shoes:

- An average reduction of 14 seconds in 10km races

- 18 seconds in half marathons

- 74 seconds in marathons

These results highlight a notable enhancement in running economy due to the use of AFT shoes.

Individual Responses to Footwear

Interestingly, the study found that about 25% of runners did not experience performance gains when using AFT shoes, indicating variability in individual responses to footwear technology.

Impact on Biomechanics

The research also assessed how characteristics like shoe mass and stiffness can influence biomechanics, suggesting that careful selection of footwear can notably affect running economy and overall performance.

Practical Recommendations

Carranza offers practical (and may I add, very sensible) recommendations for athletes:

1. Choose lightweight AFT shoes for high-intensity runs.

2. Use cushioned models during longer distances.

3. Consider wear patterns, preferring PEBA midsoles for competitions while opting for more durable EVA variations for training.

Conclusion

Víctor Rodrigo Carranza's research (2023) underscores the importance of understanding individual responses to footwear technology. By advocating for tailored shoe choices, athletes can optimise their running performance and maximise the benefits of advanced footwear. It would be advisable to have more than one pair of running trainers and take some time to consider your options. Comfort is a good indicator but if you're going for a personal best, it may be worth speaking with an expert who can assess your biomechanics, medical/injury history and running form before making recommendations on the optimal characteristics of your next running shoes.

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