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Doctors of Running Podcast

#219 The Science of Running Footwear Biomechanics 2.0: How Elite Athletes Fit In, Rethinking Shoe Categories

Nov 27, 2024
Jennifer Sumner, Director of Run Research at Brooks, and Evan Day, Manager on the Brooks Run Research Team, dive into the fascinating world of running footwear. They discuss how biomechanics play a critical role in shoe design for both elite athletes and everyday runners. Key topics include the evolving understanding of shoe support versus stability, and the importance of real-world testing and user feedback. The duo also rethinks shoe categories, focusing on the unique needs of all runners and the innovative approaches Brooks takes in their designs.
01:07:04

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Quick takeaways

  • Brooks focuses on inclusive shoe design for everyday runners, emphasizing comfort and familiarity over speed for optimal performance.
  • Consumer feedback drives Brooks' footwear testing, ensuring that real-world running experiences guide shoe development beyond laboratory findings.

Deep dives

The Importance of Everyday Runners in Footwear Design

Footwear development at Brooks focuses on the needs of the everyday runner, highlighting the significance of inclusive shoe design. Research shows that while super shoes have gained popularity among elite athletes, most recreational runners stick to shoes they train in, such as the Ghost or Glycerin. A notable finding indicates that runners who maintain their training shoes for races experience fewer aches and pains, suggesting familiarity leads to comfort and performance. Understanding what everyday runners require from their footwear is crucial to the brand’s ethos, moving beyond just speed-focused designs.

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