Episode 425: The Hunt for the Best Super Shoe with Dustin Joubert
Feb 7, 2025
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Dustin Joubert, a PhD in Exercise Physiology and running researcher at St. Edwards University, dives deep into super shoe technology and running efficiency. He discusses the unbiased advantages of independent research and how super shoes have revolutionized running, shifting from minimalist to maximalist footwear. The conversation highlights how shoe choice impacts performance differently at various paces, emphasizing comfort and testing. Joubert also reflects on the rapid advancements in shoe tech and the ongoing evolution of athletic footwear.
The transition to unsponsored running gear enables honest evaluations of shoe performance that prioritize runner preferences over brand obligations.
Independent research on running shoes, focused on physiological performance, highlights the biases introduced by traditional sponsorships in testing methods.
The varied responses to super shoes among runners underscore that while benefits exist for some, they may not universally apply across all users.
Shoe weight and design are crucial factors influencing running economy, with lighter shoes generally promoting better performance outcomes for athletes.
Deep dives
Transition to Unsponsored Running Gear
The discussion highlights the transition to unsponsored running gear, with the speaker expressing excitement about having the freedom to choose any shoe without brand obligations. This shift allows for a broader exploration of various products and an honest evaluation of their performance. The speaker emphasizes how this independence facilitates asking relevant questions that resonate with regular runners, diverging from the typical brand-driven inquiries common in sponsored atmospheres. This approach fosters a more authentic dialogue about running gear that prioritizes the needs and preferences of everyday athletes.
The Importance of Independent Research
Independent research on running shoes is underscored, revealing how traditional sponsorships can introduce biases in product testing. The speaker's background as an exercise physiologist rather than a biomechanist allows for a focus on physiological performance metrics, such as running economy, rather than biomechanics. This distinction supports the idea that independent research can yield more valuable insights for runners seeking to understand how various shoes affect their performance. The conversation emphasizes the benefit of third-party evaluations to counteract potential marketing claims made by shoe companies.
Consumer Responses to Super Shoes
The prevalence of various runners’ responses to super shoes, such as the Nike Vaporfly, is examined. The discussion points out how the initial uptake of these products created a wave of consumer excitement, with many assuming absolute performance benefits. The speaker discusses the significant number of people who experience a measurable improvement in running economy when using super shoes compared to traditional footwear. This analysis indicates that while some may experience substantial gains, others may find that not all claims hold true across different brands or shoe models.
Real-World Application of Running Economy Studies
The conversation transitions to the application of running economy studies and how they relate to real-world performance. A study comparing running economy across different paces and brands illustrates how the benefits of super shoes may not be consistent among slower-paced runners. This indicates that while elite athletes may consistently feel significant benefits, everyday runners may not experience the same degree of improvement. Consequently, the emphasis on comfort and personal preference in shoe selection becomes paramount, particularly for those who may not race at elite levels.
Individual Responses to Shoe Technology
Variability in individual responses to shoe technology is another critical point of discussion. The speaker notes that different runners may react uniquely to the same shoe based on factors such as weight and running mechanics. The distinctions between how different shoes could impact running economy further supports the idea that personalized testing is beneficial. This variability stresses the importance of testing various shoe models to determine which provides the most significant performance benefits for each runner.
Impact of Shoe Weight and Design
The impact of shoe weight and design on running performance is explored, particularly concerning how heavier shoes might negatively affect running economy. The speaker refers to studies indicating that lighter shoes generally correlate with better economic running outcomes at a given speed. This implies that the design and weight of shoes can significantly influence an athlete's performance, raising questions about the threshold of weight gain before noticeable detriment occurs. As more brands enter the market with innovative designs, these dynamics become increasingly essential for consumers.
Lifecycle of Running Shoes and Their Longevity
The conversation shifts to the longevity of running shoes, particularly super shoes, and how they hold up over time. While some runners advocate for changing shoes frequently, studies suggest that many shoes maintain their performance through considerable mileage. The insight that a super shoe can retain its benefits even after extensive use—up to 250 miles or more—provides informative guidelines for athletes regarding shoe lifespan. It's highlighted that while the upper may wear out, the critical elements affecting running economy can remain intact.
Dustin Joubert is a running researcher, PhD in Exercise Physiology and professor at St. Edwards University. He has a popular IG and website that deep dives into super shoe technology. He also runs a lab in Austin, Texas where he tests both running and shoe efficiency.
