Research on carbon fiber plates in running shoes

NewsBot · Dec 10, 2024

How athletes’ biomechanical running characteristics effect running economy during the use of running shoes with and without carbon inserts
Toby Atherton
Source

To maximise running economy (RE), shoe manufacturers placed carbon plates within the midsole of shoes. Shoe technology research is limited on understanding the variability of individual responses to carbon-plated shoes and how these responses vary across running velocities. Little research on same shoe characteristics with and without a stiff element has been completed. This study aimed to investigate how running shoes with carbon versus without a carbon composite stiff element alter individual running biomechanics and the metabolic cost of running. Ethical approval was gained from Cardiff Metropolitan University Ethics Committee. Ten male athletes (69 ± 9 kg; 174 ± 4 cm; 28 ± 9 years) completed two submaximal incremental treadmill runs. One test was completed in a shoe without carbon (C1), the other test was completed in carbon shoes (C2), the order of testing for each shoe were randomised. Running velocity started at 9 km/h and increased by 1 km/h every four mins, blood lactate samples were taken after every stage. Once 4 mmol·L−1 (OBLA; the second lactate turn point) had been reached one more stage was completed. Gas exchange was analysed throughout the whole test. The first 15 s of the final 2 minutes of each stage was recorded using Theia3D markerless motion capture software (Theia3Dv2022.1.0.2309, Theia Markerless, Inc., Kingston, ON, Canada). Data were analysed in 4 stages, the initial stage, pre-OBLA, OBLA and post-OBLA. Physiology data were averaged over the final two mins of each stage. Discrete joint angles were taken from each stage, and an average of the 15 s recording was taken for spatiotemporal measure. Data were analysed using a four-way repeat measures ANOVA, to show individual differences. Non-parametric data were analysed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Hedges g calculations were completed to calculate effect size (ES). Results showed significant increase in flight time (FT; P = 0.04, ES = 0.20) in the pre-OBLA stage when using C2. Metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) dorsiflexion showed significant increase during the initial stage in C2 (P = 0.05, ES = 0.8), and ankle dorsiflexion had significant increase in the post-OBLA stage in C2 (P = 0.03, ES = 0.2). The were no significant differences present in the physiology data. Across the physiological, spatiotemporal and kinematics, high dispersions around the mean were exhibited. Findings suggest that to improve RE, mechanical and spatiotemporal changes need to be present when using C2. Further findings show carbon shoes elicit highly individual responses to both RE and mechanics of running.
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NewsBot · Dec 23, 2024

Curved carbon plates inside running shoes modified foot and shank angular velocity improving mechanical efficiency at the ankle joint
Tomohiro Miyazaki et al
Journal of BiomechanicsVolume 172, July 2024, 112224

Recent technologically advanced running shoes have been designed with higher stack height and curved carbon plate-reinforced toe springs to enhance running performance. The purpose of this study was to examine how curved carbon-plate reinforcement modulated mechanical efficiency at the ankle joint during the running stance phase. We prepared two footwear conditions: Non and Carbon, both had a 3D-printed midsole (40-mm heel thickness). A full-length curved carbon plate was inserted along the toe spring in Carbon. The participants included 14 non-rearfoot long-distance athletes. They were required to run at a speed of 12 km/h on a 20-m runway with both shoes. Mechanical-energy expenditure (MEE, indicating mechanical work) and compensation (MEC, indicating mechanical efficiency) were calculated in the following mechanical-energy transfer phases: concentric, eccentric, and no-transfer. Running with Carbon exhibited improved MEC and reduced MEE at the ankle joint during the concentric transfer phase than with Non. The improvement in the concentric MEC at the ankle joint indicates that a larger amount of mechanical energy is transferred from the shank into the foot segment that compensates for the force exerted by the plantar flexor muscles, which implies more mechanically efficient plantarflexion movement. As the ankle joint is the largest energetic contributor in the running stance phase, greater MEC and lower MEE and torque at the ankle joint could improve running performance. Hence, the curved carbon plate may be a key feature of advanced footwear technology.
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NewsBot · Feb 12, 2025

Effect of advanced footwear technology spikes on lower limb kinetics and sprint performance
Meike Gerlach et al
Footwear Science

Performance enhancement is a key goal in the design and evaluation of athletic footwear. Recently developed Advanced Footware Technology Spikes (AFT Spikes), which combine advanced foams and/or air pods with a rigid curved plate, have attracted attention through their performance improvements. However, studies on possible associated injury risk are rare, despite reports of increased Achilles tendon pain. Therefore, our aim was to investigate potential performance benefits, and especially potential increased loads associated with the use of AFT Spikes. Twelve experienced sprinters completed four 30 m flying sprints with a preceding 15 m acceleration phase using two different types of spikes: traditional spikes (Trad Spikes) and AFT Spikes. Sprint times and kinematic data were recorded. A musculoskeletal model was used to estimate corresponding joint contact forces (JCFs) of the hip, knee, and ankle, as well as the muscle forces of the ankle plantarflexors. These kinetic variables were normalised to the body weight of the subjects and examined using generalised linear mixed models. Results showed significant improvements of 1.32% in sprint times when athletes wore AFT Spikes compared to Trad Spikes. JCFs of the ankle and the plantarflexor force increased significantly (5.25%BW and 7.18%BW, respectively) while sprinting with AFT Spikes. No significant differences were found in the JCFs of the knee and hip joints. Individual responses to the change in footwear varied widely. Although the performance benefits of AFT Spikes were remarkable, athletes should consider the increased loads when using AFT Spikes. If future studies confirm the link between AFT spikes and an increased risk of injury, it may be advisable to introduce the use of AFT Spikes gradually to allow the musculoskeletal structures time to adapt.
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NewsBot · Feb 18, 2025

Are super shoes a super placebo? A randomised crossover trial in female recreational runners
Kim Hébert-Losier et al
Footwear Science

We examined the potential placebo effect of advanced footwear technology (AFT) on running economy (RE) and perceptual measures while monitoring biomechanics. Twenty-four female recreational runners completed 4 × 6-minute RE trials in two pairs of women’s Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2. One pair was described as performance-enhancing super shoes with AFT worn by elite athletes, and the other pair was spray-painted black and described as ‘knock-off’ AFT shoes. Oxygen consumption (difference: −0.05 ± 0.47 mL·kg−1·min−1, d = −0.02), energy cost (difference: −0.02 ± 0.17 W·kg−1, d = −0.03), and discrete biomechanical variables were not significantly different between conditions. There were no significant differences between shoes in lower-extremity angular and angular velocity curves based on statistical parametric mapping. Overall comfort (100-mm visual analogue scale) was significantly greater (14.6 ± 15.0 mm, d = 0.94) in the performance-enhancing than ‘knock-off’ condition, with most runners (87.5%) preferring the former. Runners perceived running as more enjoyable and less difficult and perceived an improved running performance and lower injury risk in the performance-enhancing shoe (d = 0.72–1.16). While no significant physiological or biomechanical differences were observed, a significant placebo effect was apparent for both perceived comfort and perceived performance based on shoe description alone.
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NewsBot · Jun 14, 2025

Effects of selected features of advanced footwear technology on lower limb joint work
Ashna Ghanbari et al
Sports Biomechanics

The objective of this study was to isolate the effects of two key components of Advanced Footwear Technology, the curved carbon fibre plate and the midsole material, on lower-limb joint work. Sixteen male recreational runners ran overground at a speed of 3.9 (±5%) metres per second in three shoe conditions: a standard Nike Vaporfly 4% (Original VP4), a modified version without the curved carbon fibre plate (No Plate) and a version with the PEBA midsole material replaced with EVA foam (EVA). Motion capture and force platform data were recorded to determine positive and negative metatarsophalangeal, ankle, knee, and hip joint work, and positive and negative foot + footwear work across the different conditions. Removing the carbon fibre plate significantly increased negative work at the metatarsophalangeal joint and positive work at the ankle. Replacing PEBA with EVA significantly reduced positive foot + footwear work. The findings of this study highlighted a group effect of the curved carbon fibre plate, which redistributed positive lower-limb joint work from the ankle to the metatarsophalangeal joint. Conversely, the results highlighted subject-specific differences in response to the midsole material, emphasising the importance of considering individual variability in footwear design elements to optimise athletic performance.
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NewsBot · Jun 18, 2025

Assessment of Biomechanical Mechanism in the Context of Sports Injury Prevention or Rehabilitation
Yufan XuYufan Xu et al
Front. Bioeng. Biotechnol., 11 February 2025

Different shapes of carbon-fiber plates (CFPs) are likely to affect lower limb biomechanics, particularly under conditions of running-induced fatigue, and potentially impact runners’ performance and risk of injury. However, no studies have yet elucidated the precise effects of CFP shapes on the lower limb biomechanical characteristics subsequent to running-induced fatigue. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of different CFP shapes in running shoes on the lower limb biomechanics of runners following running-induced fatigue. 12 male runners (aged 21.8 ± 1.3 years, mass 59.1 ± 4.1 kg, height 168.9 ± 2.2 cm, weekly running distance 68.8 ± 5.5 km/week) were recruited for this study. Two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to compare kinematic and kinetic data, while SPM (Statistical Parametric Mapping) was used to assess the activation levels of lower limb muscles. Compared to wearing flat CFP shoes (“Flat”), wearing curved CFP shoes (“Curve”) resulted in a significant reduction in the hip (p = 0.034) and knee contact angle (p < 0.000), as well as a significant decrease in the hip flexion moment (p = 0.008). The activation level of the tibialis anterior (TA) was significantly higher when wearing “Curve” in pre-fatigue compared to “Flat”, whereas the opposite was observed post-fatigue. The curved CFP altered the bending angle of the forefoot, thereby significantly reducing the joint angles and joint moments of the hip and knee.
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NewsBot · Jun 21, 2025

How are Spanish athletes using technological advanced running
shoes (TARS)? Do they influence injuries?
Raul Zapata-Rodrigo et al
Source

Objectives: To determinate how technological advanced running shoes (TARS) are being used by high-level athletes and to
detect changes in the distribution of musculoskeletal injuries among athletes who use TARS.
Material and method: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was designed. All Spanish athletes who participated in interna-
tional championships (n = 221) during summer 2023 were invited to complete a questionnaire with demographic, training
load, using of TARS and status health questions.
Results: The questionnaire was completed by 221 (100%) athletes; 184 (83.3%) athletes claimed to use TARS, for 1.93 years on
average, of whom 157 (71%) used TARS in both competition and training. In relation to muscle fatigue and muscle recovery
using TARS, 28 (75,6%) of long distance and 16 (66,6%) of middle distance runners perceived less muscle fatigue, whereas 36
(52,8%) of sprinters perceived more muscle fatigue. 105 (47.5%) reported a time-loss injury. Athletes who use more time TARS
and run more kilometres with them perceived more muscle fatigue (P <0.001) and reported more time-loss injuries (P <0.01).
Conclusions: More than 85% of sprint, middle and long distance, hurdles, multiple events and race-walking athletes use
TARS. More than two thirds of middle and long distance athletes accumulate less muscle fatigue with its use, while more
than half of the sprint, hurdles and multiple events athletes accumulate greater muscle fatigue. Time of use, both in years and
percentage of use, could be associated with a greater accumulated muscle fatigue and a greater presence of time-loss injuries.
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NewsBot · Jun 22, 2025

Impact of Advanced Footwear Technology on Running Economy at Slower Running Speeds
Source

Background

Compared to conventional running shoes, Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) can contribute to improvements in oxygen cost (O2 cost) and consequently also in performance for athletes competing at fast speeds. Less clear are the effects of AFT at the slower speeds commonly adopted by recreational runners, who represent the majority of running community. This study aimed to understand the effects of AFT on O2 cost and biomechanics at slower running speeds.
Methods

Sixteen healthy, moderately-trained runners performed a running protocol consisting of an incremental test with four velocity stages (7.5, 9.0, 10.5 and 12.0 km·h− 1) wearing three different footwear conditions (a standard running shoe, On Cloudrunner 2, CR; an AFT shoe, On Cloudboom Echo 3, CE; and a shoe combining AFT and standard features, On Prototype, PR). The protocol was repeated on three different days by each participant. Gas exchange, spatiotemporal parameters and effort were measured throughout the runs. With the help of visual analogue scales (VAS) several subjective parameters were gathered, including the comfort, energy return and springiness, and overall satisfaction.
Results

A reduction in O2 cost of 5.4 ml O2·kg− 1·km− 1 (95% CI: 3.9 to 6.9 ml O2·kg− 1·km − 1, p < 0.001) in CE vs. CR and compared to PR of 4.1 ml O2·kg− 1·km − 1 (95% CI: 2.6 to 5.6 ml O2·kg− 1·km − 1, p < 0.001) was demonstrated over the tested speeds. No velocity-dependent reduction in the benefits of O2 cost was found. With respect to the measured spatiotemporal parameters no significant differences between footwear conditions were detected. A linear relationship between comfort and O2 cost was revealed (p = 0.014), where a higher comfort rating was associated with a higher O2 cost.
Conclusion

The findings indicate that AFT provide significant benefits in O2 cost at lower running speeds and no velocity-dependent decrease in O2 cost savings was observed. The AFT design for recreational runners should be further improved to unite both running economy and comfort benefits.
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NewsBot · Jun 23, 2025

Effects of carbon fiber plates of running shoe on foot and leg joint kinematics and kinetics
Dongwook Seo,Yongseok Park,Kwantae Kim &Kikwang Lee
Footwear ScienceVolume 17, 2025 - Issue sup1: Proceedings of the Seventeenth Footwear Biomechanics Symposium (Oslo, Norway, 2025)

Introduction
Carbon fibre plates in running shoes have been reported to enhance energy efficiency and propulsion. However, most studies focus on a few joints (hip, knee, ankle, and metatarsophalangeal), leaving foot joint kinematics largely unexplored. Additionally, while some studies compare shoes with different materials, stack heights, and cushioning, making it difficult to isolate the carbon plate’s effect (Hoogkamer et al., Citation2019), others have controlled for these variables by comparing identical shoes with and without carbon plate (Healey & Hoogkamer, Citation2022). This study adopts the latter approach, ensuring the carbon plate is the sole variable. While previous research has examined carbon plates at elite speeds (>3.0 m/s), their influence at moderate speeds (2.78 m/s) remains unclear.

Purpose of the study
This study examines the impact of carbon fibre plates on foot joint kinematics and lower limb Joint dynamics.

Methods
Seven male participants ran at 2.78 m/s for two 10-minute trials in Carbon-Plate (CP) and Non-Carbon (NC) shoes, which is identical except for the CP, under IRB KMU-202501-HR-455, compliant with Helsinki Declaration & IRB guidelines. Kinematics data were collected using Qualisys Track Manager (QTM) v2023.3 (Qualisys AB, Gothenburg, Sweden) with a modified Maharaj et al. (Citation2022) foot model integrated into OpenSim 2392. Ground reaction forces were recorded via a Bertec instrumented treadmill (Bertec Corp., Columbus, OH, USA). Statistical analyses included two-way repeated-measures ANOVA for shoe and time effects, with Bonferroni post hoc tests. Additionally, statistical parametric mapping (SPM) assessed continuous differences in joint angle. The significance level was set at α < 0.05.

Results
Kinematics analysis revealed significant differences in ankle and hip angular velocity and acceleration (p < .05). Group differences were found in midtarsal and subtalar joint angles, with angular velocity and acceleration also differing in midtarsal, MTP, and tarsometatarsal joints (p < .05). Kinetics analysis showed higher positive mechanical energy in the hip and subtalar joints (p < .05). Joint moments differed significantly at the ankle and subtalar joints (p < .05), while power differed at the subtalar joint (p < .001). Additionally, a significant interaction effect between time and group was observed for multiple dependent variables in the subtalar joint (p < .001) (Figures 1 and 2).

Figure 1. (a and b) Foot model marker set, (c and d) footwear condition.

Figure 1. (a and b) Foot model marker set, (c and d) footwear condition.
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Figure 2. Sample results of mechanical power calculation for CP and NC.

Figure 2. Sample results of mechanical power calculation for CP and NC.
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Discussion and conclusion
CP appears to increase joint moments and energy at the same speed. Previous studies indicate that mechanical energy consumption rises with running speed. This study found that CP generated more energy even at a moderate speed, suggesting a greater effect at higher speeds. While CP increases energy use, it may enhance propulsion in well-trained runners, aiding in sustaining higher speeds efficiently. Additionally, subtalar power decreased over time in the NC condition but increased in the CP condition, while ankle joint moments increased in the CP condition, and subtalar moments remained stable in the NC condition. These findings suggest a possible link to reported navicular bone stress fractures in elite runners wearing CP shoes (Tenforde et al., Citation2023), as increased subtalar loading and altered foot mechanics may contribute to localised stress accumulation.
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NewsBot · Jun 26, 2025

The effects of running shoe longitudinal bending stiffness and midsole energy return on oxygen consumption and ankle mechanics and energetics: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Cameron H.N. Stephen et al
Journal of Sport and Health Science 21 June 2025, 101069

Highlights
•Advanced footwear technology (AFT) improves running economy by 2.7%.
•The benefits of AFTs are moderated by running speed and training status.
•The benefits of AFTs are likely due to the interaction of increased longitudinal bending stiffness and midsole energy return, not either in isolation.
ABSTRACT
Purpose
We aimed to investigate the effects of running shoe longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS) and midsole energy return on running economy and ankle mechanics and energetics.
Methods
PubMed, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, Embase, CINAHL, and Web of Science were systematically searched for this meta-analysis. Crossover studies comparing the effects of running shoe longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS) and/or midsole energy return on at least 1 of the following outcomes: running economy, ankle plantarflexion moment, work, power, or angular velocity were included.
Results
Of the 2453 studies screened, 48 were included (n = 878). Results indicated that AFTs significantly reduced oxygen consumption (standardized mean difference = –0.44, 95% confidence interval: –0.60 to –0.28), p < 0.001) as well as peak ankle moments and positive/negative ankle work and power. However, neither LBS nor midsole energy return alone significantly affected oxygen consumption, ankle moments, positive and negative work, or positive power. The effects of AFTs were moderated by the training status and speed of the runner. The quality of evidence for all outcomes were low or very low for all outcomes except the effect of LBS on negative ankle work.
Conclusion
Advanced footwear technology may improve running economy by minimizing ankle moments, work, and power. The absence of significant independent effects of LBS and midsole energy return suggests that the benefits of AFTs arise from the interaction of these properties. Further research is necessary to understand the mechanisms for improved running performance in AFTs.
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NewsBot · Jun 26, 2025

Effect of longitudinal bending stiffness of marathon racing shoes on the elite runners’ lower limb biomechanics
Li Kuang et al
Footwear Science Volume 17, 2025 - Issue sup1: Proceedings of the Seventeenth Footwear Biomechanics Symposium (Oslo, Norway, 2025)

Advanced footwear technology such as the Vaporfly 4% significantly reduces energy cost and improves running performance due to more advanced midsole materials and higher longitudinal bending stiffness (LBS) (Hebert-Losier et al., Citation2020). Many studies have investigated the effects of running shoe stiffness on lower limb biomechanics, energy cost, and subjective perception. Evan found that the optimal running shoe stiffness depends on the running speed, and runners tend to choose the shoes with higher LBS when the running speed is increased. Keonyoung (Keonyoung & Sukyung, Citation2017) pointed out that higher LBS is beneficial to the improvement of running energetics, as long as it does not disturb the natural MTP joints flexion. However, most of the test shoes in previous studies used a plate underneath the insole to change the LBS of the running shoe, which is not consistent with the “sandwich construction” of racing shoes on the market today. Also, few studies have investigated the impact mechanisms of LBS on lower limb work patterns.
Purpose of the study

This study aimed to investigate the effect of marathon racing shoes with different LBS on the elite runners’ lower limbs biomechanics. The findings will provide guidance for the design of marathon racing shoes and the development of longitudinal bending stiffness standards.
Methods

Fifteen male runners (height: 169.55 ± 4.77 cm, weight: 60.16 ± 5.22 kg, BMI: 21.54 ± 1.70 kg/m2) were recruited from a local running community. All participants were Chinese nationals, rearfoot strike, a minimum weekly running distance of 50 km, with the foot size of EU (41 ± 0.5) and the ability to complete a marathon in under 3 hours.

This study adjusted LBS by altering carbon plate thickness: Soft longitudinal Bending Stiffness (SLBS) (0.31 Nm/deg), Medium longitudinal Bending Stiffness (MLBS) (0.40 Nm/deg), and Hard longitudinal Bending Stiffness (HLBS) (0.48 Nm/deg) (

). Participants completed 5 valid trials on a 66-meter indoor concrete track at a speed within 4.8 m/s ± 5%. Ground reaction force (GRF) and kinematics were measured using force plates (AMTI Force & Motion, Watertown, MA, USA) and a 10-camera motion capture system (Vicon, Oxford, UK). Muscle activation was recorded using Noraxon Ultium EMG sensors (Noraxon, Scottsdale, AZ, USA).

Figure 1. Experimental shoe.
Figure 1. Experimental shoe.

Kinematic, kinetic data and Surface electromyography signals were processed with Vicon Nexus 2.7 and Visual3D.

Statistical analysis was performed using MATLAB, with Shapiro–Wilk tests for normality and paired t-tests for comparisons (α < 0.05).
Results

As LBS increased, the hip joint’s contribution to the peak TM decreased, with the SLBS showing significantly higher contributions than others. In contrast, the ankle joint’s contribution increased initially and then decreased, with the SLBS having a significantly lower contribution than others (p < 0.05). The HLBS had significantly longer contact time than both the SLBS and the MLBS (p < 0.05). Push-off time was longer in the HLBS compared to the MLBS (p < 0.05). Vertical stiffness was significantly higher in the HLBS and MLBS than in the SLBS (p < 0.05). MLBS had the highest tibialis anterior/medial gastrocnemius co-activation (p < 0.05) (

).

Table 1. The main variables in different LBS.
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Discussion and conclusion

We found that changes in LBS affected the work patterns of lower limb joints, with the MLBS and HLBS contributing a smaller proportion of the hip moment and the ankle joint contributing a higher proportion compared to the SLBS. In other words, increased LBS resulted in a significant increase in the role played by the distal joints during running. This conclusion was further supported by an increase co-activation of the TA and MG muscles. Muscle-tendon units around the ankle joint are more capable of storing and returning elastic energy, which is beneficial in reducing lower metabolic costs during long-distance running (Sasa et al., Citation2021).

The increase in LBS did not necessarily lead to better running performance. There was no significant difference in the lower limb joint contribution between MLBS and HBS, and contact time and push-off time were even longer in HLBS. In addition, the BF and RF co-activation of HLBS increased, and the proximal joint muscle work contribution was higher, which proved that the running performance of HLBS was worse compared with that of MLBS, which may be due to the phenomenon of proximal joint compensation caused by the runner’s inability to adapt to the high stiffness. Therefore, there is a reasonable range of values for LBS of running shoes to enhance running performance.
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NewsBot · Jun 26, 2025

Improvements in running economy in advanced footwear technology are greater if you are strong in leg-press – if you are female
Toni Arndt et al
Footwear Science Volume 17, 2025 - Issue sup1: Proceedings of the Seventeenth Footwear Biomechanics Symposium (Oslo, Norway, 2025)

Introduction

The reasons underlying the considerable interindividual differences in running economy (RE) changes in shoes with advanced footwear technology (AFT) (Hoogkamer et al., Citation2018) are still largely unknown. Furthermore, the result improvements in distance running in the years since AFT was introduced have been greater for elite females compared to males (Bermon et al., Citation2021; Mason et al., Citation2024). A number of characteristics may be relevant for these differences and lower extremity muscle strength may be a contributing factor.
Purpose of the study

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship of open-chain muscle strength in various isolated lower extremity muscles and closed-chain leg strength in a leg-press with differences between AFT shoes with high energy return (ER) and a non-AFT shoe with lower ER. This aim was designed to illuminate strength as a possible factor for explaining discrepancies between females and males in the performance enhancing benefits provided by AFT shoes.
Methods

Isokinetic open- and closed-chain strength was assessed in an isokinetic dynamometer (Isomed2000, DRFerstl GmbH, Henau, Germany) in 30 high-level runners (15 female, 15 male) when running at 60, 70 and 80% of their VO2max velocity on a treadmill in an advanced footwear technology (AFT) shoe and a control, non-AFT shoe. The strength was measured in the triceps surae, tibialis anterior, quadriceps and hamstring muscles and in a closed-chain leg-press. The difference in running economy (RE) between the shoe conditions was correlated with the muscle strengths.
Results

No significant correlations were seen between RE improvements in the AFT shoe compared to the control shoe in open-chain isokinetic strength in isolated muscle groups, however this improved RE correlated significantly with strength in the closed chain leg-press at 70% of VO2max speed for males and at 60 and 80% for females. Interestingly, the correlation was negative for males and positive for females (

). For females a stronger leg-press correlated significantly with an improved RE in the AFT shoe at two of the three running speeds.

Figure 1. Figure description. Percentage RE improvement in the AFT shoe compared to the control shoe at three different speeds. Correlation coefficients and p values: Male: 60%: r = −0.48, p =.069; 70%: r = −0.70, p =.004; 80%: r = −0.48, p =.084. Female: 60%: r = 0.68, p =.015; 70%: r = 0.45, p =.173; 80%: r = 0.66, p =.027.
Figure 1. Figure description. Percentage RE improvement in the AFT shoe compared to the control shoe at three different speeds. Correlation coefficients and p values: Male: 60%: r = −0.48, p =.069; 70%: r = −0.70, p =.004; 80%: r = −0.48, p =.084. Female: 60%: r = 0.68, p =.015; 70%: r = 0.45, p =.173; 80%: r = 0.66, p =.027.
Discussion and conclusion

The result that strength has opposing results for males and females adds further questions to what individual characteristics provide the underlying mechanisms for sex differences and interindividual differences in performance enhancing effects of AFT shoes. The high relevance of closed chain, leg-press strength with running economy may indicate that total leg strength or maybe stiffness can provide more stable prerequisites for utilizing the quite unstable AFT shoe characteristics. Such a stability may not be provided with strong isolated muscle groups.
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NewsBot · Jun 26, 2025

Longitudinal follow-up of running injury incidence in recreational runners in relationship to the use of Advanced Footwear Technology shoes
Toni Arndt et al
Footwear Science Volume 17, 2025 - Issue sup1: Proceedings of the Seventeenth Footwear Biomechanics Symposium (Oslo, Norway, 2025)

Introduction

The introduction of Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) running shoes, primarily characterised by high and highly energy returning midsoles and inserted rigid elements increasing the longitudinal bending stiffness of the soles, has received attention due to the related improved performances (Bermon et al., Citation2021). However, the mechanical characteristics may also affect injury risk through, e.g. increased loading of plantarflexing muscles and tendons or medio-lateral instability. The injury risks associated with AFT shoes are poorly understood and although recent attention has been drawn to possible sports medical issues and altered ankle mechanics (Tenforde et al., Citation2023), no previous long-term follow-up study has been published.
Purpose of the study

The aim of this longitudinal study was to describe the use of shoes with AFT in recreational runners and explore whether running in AFT shoes increases the risk of running related injuries (RRIs).
Methods

Participants were recruited in April 2022 via e-mails sent to runners registered for the Stockholm Marathon, and via different social media sites, including Facebook and LinkedIn. Inclusion criteria were at least 18 years of age and participating in organised running events. The exclusion criterium was not understanding the Swedish language.

Participants were in September 2022 asked to respond to a baseline questionnaire asking for demographics, running experience and training habits. Subsequently, participants received 41 weekly surveys through a mobile app about running performed (distance and pace), shoes used (brand and model) and RRIs suffered during the previous week.

A runner was defined to suffer a RRI if they reported an injury related to running that was associated with problems participating in training or competition during the last 7 days. A runner was defined as an AFT user if reporting usage of AFT shoes any time during at least 20% of the weeks they responded to the weekly surveys.
Statistics

Characteristics of AFT users and non-users were described using mean and standard deviations. Reporting dynamics and RRI patterns were displayed graphically for the study period. Unadjusted comparisons between groups of runners were made by Wilcoxon rank-sum test.
Results

A total of 271 recreational and elite runners participated in the study by responding to a baseline survey and at least eight of the 41 weekly surveys. On average, 240 (89%) responded each week.

105 (39%) runners fulfilled the AFT user definition. The AFT users ran longer distances (p < 0.05) and faster (p < 0.05) compared with non-users (
). In all, 316 RRI episodes were reported (). The most injured site was the knee joint (25%) followed by the foot/toes (20%). In unadjusted analyses, no difference was observed regarding the proportion of runners reporting RRIs between AFT users (63%) and non-users (58%, p = 0.487) (

).

Figure 1. Timeline for injuries for the AFT users and non-users.
Figure 1. Timeline for injuries for the AFT users and non-users.

Table 1. Characteristics of AFT users and non-users.
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Discussion and conclusion

AFT users covered longer running distance and also ran at a faster pace than the non-users. These factors would be expected to be associated with greater loading and potentially a higher injury occurrence. However, the proportion of runners reporting RRIs did not differ significantly between AFT users and non-users in our unadjusted analyses. Further analyses will focus on RRI patterns controlling for running experience and physical loading dynamics.
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NewsBot · Jun 26, 2025

Effect of advanced footwear technology on proximal joint work distribution while running with plantar flexor fatigue
Key Nahan et al
Footwear Science Volume 17, 2025 - Issue sup1: Proceedings of the Seventeenth Footwear Biomechanics Symposium (Oslo, Norway, 2025)

Introduction

Advanced footwear technology (AFT), defined by a carbon fibre plate, novel foam, and rocker geometry, can improve running performance, but the underlying mechanisms responsible are unclear. An exhaustive run (i.e., 10 km race) results in a proximal redistribution of positive joint work from the ankle to the knee (Cigoja et al., Citation2022), which may impair running performance (Cigoja et al., Citation2022). This redistribution is suggested to result from plantar flexor (PF) fatigue. While a carbon fibre plate delays the proximal redistribution of positive joint work, it still occurs in the final stages of the run (Cigoja et al., Citation2022). Thus, AFT may improve performance by reducing the shift in positive joint work during the final stages of exhaustive running.
Purpose of the study

Examine the role of AFT in the proximal redistribution of positive joint work while running with PF fatigue.
Methods

Eleven male runners participated (mean age: 25) in a single day data collection. Females were excluded as sex has a known influence on fatigue (Sarwar et al., Citation1996). First, baseline PF maximum voluntary contractions (MVC) were measured. Then, a baseline run (BR) on an instrumented treadmill (M-Gait, Motek) at their individual 10 km race speed, this run was immediately followed by another MVC. Next, participants completed a fatigue protocol of bilateral calf raises. MVC was intermittently assessed until 70–80% of the initial baseline force was reached (Nicol et al., Citation2003). A fatigued run (FR) was then performed under the same conditions as the BR and immediately followed by an MVC. The protocol was repeated in a traditional shoe (Trad; BROOKS Hyperion Tempo™) and AFT (ASICS Metaspeed Sky+™), order randomised.

Three-dimensional motion capture (Vicon/Nexus) and force plate data (M-Gait, Motek) were collected during each run. An inverse dynamics approach was used to calculate kinematic and kinetic variables (Matlab). Positive ankle, knee, and hip work during stance phase were obtained by integrating the power-time curve. Power and work were non-dimensionalised using body mass, acceleration due to gravity, and leg length (as per [McDonald et al., Citation2021]). Non-dimensionalised work was then divided by non-dimensionalised stride length (i.e., non-dimensionsed by leg length) to account for distance variation between runs.
Results

The target fatigue (∼24% [22, 26]; mean [95% confidence interval]) was achieved for all runners in both shoes, and PF fatigue recovered over the FR (p = 0.002).

No difference between shoes was found for the effect of PF fatigue on positive ankle (p = 0.658), knee (p = 0.375), or hip (p = 0.825) work. Thus, shoe condition did not influence the proximal redistribution of positive joint work.

PF fatigue was associated with a redistribution in positive joint work from the ankle (
; p = 0.003) to the knee (

; p = 0.001). No change was observed at the hip (p = 0.500).

Figure 1. (A) Positive ankle and (A) knee work during the baseline run (BR) and fatigued run (FR) for the traditional shoe (Trad.) and advanced footwear technology (AFT). Error bars are the 95% confidence interval.
Figure 1. (A) Positive ankle and (A) knee work during the baseline run (BR) and fatigued run (FR) for the traditional shoe (Trad.) and advanced footwear technology (AFT). Error bars are the 95% confidence interval.
The Trad. was associated with greater positive ankle (; p < 0.001) and knee work (

; p < 0.001) as compared to AFT; however, positive hip work (p = 0.500) was unchanged between shoes.
Discussion and conclusion

PF fatigue caused a proximal redistribution of positive joint work, from the ankle to the knee, at exhaustive running speeds. However, this was not influenced by shoe condition.

As indicated by previous research on carbon fibre plates, running with AFT may delay the onset of suboptimal gait patterns and attenuate PF fatigue accumulation (Cigoja et al., Citation2022). Yet, when we imposed PF fatigue (∼24%) like that experienced in the final stages of a race, similar gait alterations were observed in Trad. and AFT. Our results indicate that PF fatigue is not compensated for by AFT in a way that meaningfully affects positive joint work redistribution.
Click to expand...

scotfoot · Jun 27, 2025

Interesting article in recent edition of Runners World:

"Strong feet are essential. That’s what Tony Bignell at Nike, tells Radcliffe on her podcast. ‘Super shoes stop your feet moving around, your metatarsals, your toes. You’re kind of put in this artificial position. So that’s great because it makes you faster, but that’s bad because eventually it makes you weaker. So when you’re not running in the shoes, walk around barefoot, do other things to strengthen your feet"

Link https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/health/injury/a65169837/super-shoes-injury/

scotfoot · Jun 28, 2025

I have never really given super shoes much thought, but it struck me that they might make the foot weaker ,particularly the toe flexors. However, there appears to be no published research on the subject.

Tony Bignell, mentioned above, is Chief Innovation Officer at Nike. In a recent podcast with Paula Radcliffe he seems to be in no doubt that super shoes weaken feet and he recommends measures be used to strengthen them. He doesn't say they might cause weakness, he says they cause weakness. How does he know ?

Mr Bignell talks about walking around barefoot as a strengthening measure, but he may not be aware that a recent trial showed walking around in minimal shoes produced no significant strengthening effect in people over 65, even after 16 weeks. Generally, my understanding is that you really need to be looking at progressive resistance exercises to strengthen the muscles of older people.
Research Articles| September 26 2024
Long-Term Effects and Impressions of Minimal Footwear in Older Adults Free

Article Collection: Article Collection: Foot and Footwear Considerations for Older People
Subject Area: Geriatrics and Gerontology
https://doi.org/10.1159/000540957
39326400

Info on weakening effect at about 18.15 in podcast

NewsBot · Jul 1, 2025

Commentary
Quo vadis advanced footwear technology research?

scotfoot · Jul 3, 2025

Where next with super running shoes?
Well, the publication of any study which shows whether super shoes cause foot weakness seems like a good idea.
From Tony Bignell, Chief Innovation officer at Nike:

"Strong feet are essential. That’s what Tony Bignell at Nike, tells Radcliffe on her podcast. ‘Super shoes stop your feet moving around, your metatarsals, your toes. You’re kind of put in this artificial position. So that’s great because it makes you faster, but that’s bad because eventually it makes you weaker. So when you’re not running in the shoes, walk around barefoot, do other things to strengthen your feet"

Link https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/health/injury/a65169837/super-shoes-injury/

I have had a look around various databases and have found no papers that demonstrate that using super shoes weaken feet, and yet Mr Bignell seems pretty certain about it.
A healthy intrinsic foot musculature is essential for overall health.

Bignell also says super shoes stop your feet "moving around your metatarsals", so what does that mean for foot mobility both in the midfoot area and at the metatarsals themselves. Does wearing super shoes causes reduced mobility between the bones of the foot and are corrective exercises required?

On a related topic, what happens to the intrinsic foot musculature when people are given shoes with a rigid rocker bottom to walk about in? These have been around for many years and it seems inconceivable that nobody has ever investigated.

Research on carbon fiber plates in running shoes

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