Human Performance Outliers Podcast with Zach Bitter Episode 425: The Hunt for the Best Super Shoe with Dustin Joubert
Feb 7, 2025
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.
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Early Super Shoe Testing
- Dustin Joubert tested Hoka Carbon X and Alphafly prototypes in his lab.
- He found the Alphafly provided a 4% benefit, while the Carbon X was equivalent to a regular shoe.
The Importance of Foam
- Early super shoes focused heavily on carbon plates, but research suggests the foam is more crucial.
- Non-Pebax foams are now catching up to Pebax in performance.
Individualized Shoe Testing
- Get individualized footwear testing in a lab with a metabolic cart.
- Look for differences greater than 1% between shoes to make reliable conclusions.