Evolution and Trends in Trail Shoe Design

Thomas Neuberger has probably worn more pairs of shoes than anybody else over the last 15 years (with maybe the exception of Runner’s World Director of Product Testing and Runner-in-Chief, Jeff Dengate).

Thomas’ deep experience in the running shoe industry gives him an unparalleled perspective on the evolution of shoes, why some features are no longer available, and the future of running shoes.

In this episode, Thomas and I talk about:

• The 2009 origin story of Believe in the Run, a top shoe review company in the United States

• What it's like to test around 100 pairs of running shoes a year

• The evolution, trends, and fads of running shoes, and why personal runner preference matters

• How runners can look for and try running shoes that could work for their individual bodies, instead of focusing on a specific brand

• Tips for beginner runners on selecting a running shoe

• Stack height, arch support, material, heel-toe drop... What should you consider when looking for a pair of running shoes?

• Trends in running shoes: from minimalist and barefoot to maximum cushion

• How a certain model of running shoe can go for over $2,000 on the secondary market

• How running shoes can relate to foot health and injury (or injury prevention)

• Why you should be rotating your running shoes

• Super shoes: How often should runners wear them, whether they're worth it, and what to consider if you're looking for a pair

• The worst pair of running shoes Thomas ever tried, and some of the best pairs of running shoes from Thomas' experiences

• Running shoe wisdom: If your running shoes aren't fun, then you're running in the wrong shoes. Don't settle.

I get many questions from runners about running shoes, so this episode will give you a ton of value to start making better shoe decisions.

Links & Resources from the Show:

• Explore Believe in the Run

• Thomas Neuberger on Instagram

• Believe in the Run on YouTube

• Learn a great warm-up routine for runners

A big thanks to DrinkLMNT for their support of this episode! They make electrolyte drinks for athletes and low-carb folks with no sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. They are offering a free gift with your purchase at DrinkLMNT. And this does NOT have to be your first purchase. You’ll get a sample pack with every flavor so you can try them all before deciding what you like best. 

DrinkLMNT’s products have some of the highest sodium concentrations that you can find. Anybody who runs a lot knows that sodium, as well as other electrolytes like magnesium and potassium, are essential to our performance and how we feel throughout the day.

If you’re not familiar, LMNT is my favorite way to hydrate. They make electrolytes for athletes and low-carb folks with no Sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. I’m now in the habit of giving away boxes of LMNT at group runs around Denver and Boulder and everyone loves this stuff.

Boost your performance and your recovery with LMNT. They’re the exclusive hydration partner to Team USA Weightlifting and quite a few professional baseball, hockey, and basketball teams are on regular subscriptions. So check out DrinkLMNT to get a free sampler pack and get your hydration optimized for the upcoming season.

After resisting most supplements for the better part of my life, I’m cautiously changing my tune. I’m now a Masters runner and in my personal life, I’m optimizing for longevity. I want to be my healthiest self for as long as possible and I’m excited to partner with Previnex to make that happen.

Previnex uses the most bioavailable, clinically tested ingredients, the optimal form and dose of each ingredient, pharmaceutical grade manufacturing, testing of raw ingredients and finished products. For every purchase you make, they also donate vitamins to kids in need.

Their new Muscle Health Plus is something I’m now taking. Turning 40 – and having a thin frame – has made me realize that I need to prioritize lean muscle mass to stay healthy and age well. Muscle Health Plus has creatine, essential and branched chain amino acids, and it’s designed in a way to maximize protein synthesis and the absorption of amino acids.

Muscle Health Plus will help you prevent muscle damage, which is particularly important for aging runners who want to protect themselves from muscle loss and recover faster after hard workouts. As is true for all of their products, Previnex adheres to the highest of standards: their ingredients are clinically proven to do what they say they’re going to do.

Previnex offers a 30-day money back guarantee. If you don’t feel the benefits of their product, you get your money back no questions asked. With their focus on quality and customer satisfaction, I hope you’ll try it! Use code jason15 for 15% off your first order at Previnex!