Exploring The Science Behind The Latest Running Shoe Trends
Wednesday June 3rd is Global Running Day! No matter your speed or your preferred distance, you may be among the millions around the world participating in this celebration of movement.
So, what will you be wearing for the festivities? As a runner, chances are that at some point you have mulled over which running shoes are the best for you. Especially with everchanging trends and innovations, there is an abundance of options. We’re going to discuss some of the most popular today.
Carbon Fiber Plates
Shoes with carbon fiber plates (or “super shoes”) are designed to increase your speed while reducing your overall foot fatigue. The plates themselves are typically a blend of polymer resin reinforced with carbonized fibers, and they are often embedded into the midsoles. Depending on the midsole material, super shoes may have a shorter lifespan than your everyday trainer – but they can be your go-to for big races and key speed or tempo workouts.
If you’re running in shoes with carbon fiber plates, you might feel:
- More structure and stability
- High energy return
- Improved running economy
Not every runner will respond the same way, however. Generally super shoes may offer the largest benefits for forefoot and midfoot strikers, but there are some shaped specifically for heel strike patterns. If you are looking to maximize the efficiency of your stride, carbon fiber plates could be the way to go.
Supercritical Foams
Many footwear brands use supercritical foams in their high-performance running shoes to maximize energy return. Supercritical foams are created by injecting a polymer (like EVA or TPU) with a supercritical fluid (like CO2 or nitrogen), creating air pockets that give the foam an incredibly lightweight structure. Supercritical foams are often paired with carbon fiber plates for racing footwear but can still be used in everyday trainers.
With supercritical foams in the insoles or midsoles you might experience:
- High level cushioning, energy return, and springiness
- Lighter weight and more breathability
- Comfort and performance without high densities
Supercritical foams can deliver increased speed and shock absorption for almost any type of runner. Just be on the lookout for durability, as some foams like standard EVA might pack out more quickly over time.
High Stack Heights
Stack height describes the combined height of a shoe’s midsole and outsole - more cushioning equates to a higher stack height. High stack heights can be great for recovery and long runs, but can also be paired with carbon fiber plates for high performance shoes.
High stack heights are designed to:
- Reduce shock absorption as you run
- Protect your feet and joints from excess impact
- Support additional components like carbon fiber plates
High stack heights are frequently recommended for runners carrying more weight, heel strikers, and anyone who just likes extra cushioning. Just be sure you’re not sacrificing heel and ankle stability in the process.
Barefoot Footwear
The driving force behind barefoot or minimalist footwear is the theory that it encourages your body to take on a more natural gait. Proponents of minimalist footwear believe that barefoot running can strengthen your feet and calf muscles, emphasizing midfoot or forefoot striking. Barefoot footwear can be designed for both racing and training runs.
Barefoot shoes can provide:
- Flexibility: Allowing your feet to flex at the arch more as you move
- Zero drop: Meaning the heel and forefoot of the shoe are at the same height, mimicking a bare foot posture
- Wide toe box: Giving your toes more space to spread out, providing balance and stability
Take it slow, though. Barefoot footwear requires a transition process where you either progress through more minimalistic shoes, or you build minimalist footwear into your running shoe rotation until your feet and legs feel stronger.
Go Forth and Run
Comfort and performance isn’t limited to just one part of the shoe, and you may find that your needs change based on your goals for each run and how your body is feeling that day. Ultimately, you want footwear that complements your running style. And you can show off your footwear and your style on Global Running Day!
Add INSITE Insoles To Your Running Shoes
If you're a developer looking to add comfort, performance, and support to your next footwear design, let INSITE help you find the best materials for your product.