Chapter 1
The foam revolution: how bubbles save your joints
Chapter 2
The snap of carbon fiber: mechanical springs underfoot
Chapter 3
Curved soles and aerodynamics: rolling through the wind
Chapter 4
The biomechanical trade-off: speed vs. physical strain
Ch 4 · The biomechanical trade-off: speed vs. physical strain
adidas Wouter Hoogkamer led the University of Colorado research into reduced oxygen consumption, inspiring the name of Nike's first commercial super shoe.
Quiz
Which university's locomotion lab conducted the landmark 2017 study confirming the 4% energy savings?
adidas Embedded carbon plates and energy-returning foam help athletes run faster with less effort.
Quiz
What was Eliud Kipchoge's exact history-making time in his 2019 sub-two-hour marathon run?
Quiz
In what city did Eliud Kipchoge complete his historic sub-two-hour marathon in 2019?
Fun Fact
Math magic: Slower runners actually get a higher percentage improvement in their total finish times from super shoes than elite runners do!
Quiz
What is the anatomical name of the critical midfoot bone at risk of stress injuries from excessive inward foot roll in super shoes?
Quiz
What term describes the biomechanical movement of the rearfoot rolling or collapsing inward?
Glossary
cadence (noun)
The number of steps a person takes per minute while walking or running. A 2026 study found that carbon-plated racing shoes significantly decreased this rate in elite runners.
The number of steps a person takes per minute while walking or running. A 2026 study found that carbon-plated racing shoes significantly decreased this rate in elite runners.
adidas The Lazy Ankle
These carbon plates do the work for you (doing the work!) / Don't let your ankles get lazy now (don't get lazy!)
Quiz
Why do physical therapists advise against using carbon-plated shoes for everyday, slow recovery runs?
Quiz
Why do runners feel less muscle soreness in their calves after running in super shoes?