227. Elite Ultrarunner Geoff Burns, PhD on the Science of Super Shoes

Optimal Usage

Understanding the optimal usage of super shoes can significantly enhance a runner's performance. Geoff Burns suggests incorporating these shoes into key training sessions, such as long runs and intervals, to maximize their benefits. He notes that using super shoes can help reduce muscular trauma and improve running mechanics over time 1.

When I put those shoes on for the first time and ran in them, I thought this feels like biking. I feel like my legs are kind of going in this perpetual motion and not feeling any sort of trauma.

--- Geoff Burns

This unique mechanical interaction with the ground can lead to subtle adaptations, making them a valuable tool for both elite and amateur runners 2.

   

Injury Prevention

While super shoes offer performance benefits, they also come with potential injury risks. Geoff Burns highlights that the stiff plates in these shoes can stress the ankle complex, particularly affecting the Achilles tendon 3. He advises caution for runners with limited ankle range of motion or previous Achilles issues.

These plates, their purpose is to really stiffen up essentially the joints underneath your foot.

--- Geoff Burns

Additionally, the interaction between super shoes and insoles is not well understood, and runners are encouraged to experiment gradually to find what works best for them 4.

   

Training Paradigms

Super shoes are poised to transform training paradigms by enabling runners to handle larger volumes of specific work, particularly in marathon training. Geoff Burns believes that these shoes can facilitate greater growth at a young age, potentially altering the developmental trajectory of athletes 5.

I definitely think that's one of the ways that these shoes are going to change the trajectory of our sport in the long term.

--- Geoff Burns

As studies continue to explore these impacts, the strategic use of super shoes in training will likely evolve, offering new insights into performance enhancement 6.