The Run Smarter Podcast The Best Shoe Brands for Running Economy & Injury Prevention
Dec 1, 2024
Explore how the right running shoes can enhance performance and reduce injuries. Discover the surprising impact of shoe design on running economy, especially with innovative models like the Nike Vaporfly. Learn about key shoe properties, such as stiffness and weight, and their influence on individual running mechanics. Personalization emerges as a crucial factor for long-distance runners. Tune in for insights that could transform your running experience!
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Vaporfly's Advantage
- The Nike Vaporfly's improved running economy is likely due to its PEBAX foam, which has an 87% energy return.
- This is significantly higher than the 65-75% return of EVA and TPU foams in other shoes.
Carbon Plate Benefits
- Carbon fiber plates in shoes reduce energy dissipation at the big toe joint by limiting its range of motion.
- Heel strikers benefit more from this lever effect than midfoot or forefoot strikers.
Shoe Choice for Heel Strikers
- Consider a shoe with longitudinal stiffness and energy-returning foam if you heel strike and want better performance.
- These features are most beneficial for longer distances where fatigue and glycogen depletion are factors.