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Does maximalist footwear lower impact loading during level ground and downhill running?
Zoe Y S Chan1, Ivan P H Au1, Fannie O Y Lau1
1a Gait & Motion Analysis Laboratory, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences , The Hong Kong Polytechnic University , Hung Hom , Kowloon , Hong Kong.
European Journal of Sport Science
|May 25, 2018
Summary
Maximalist running shoes (MAX) did not reduce impact loading during level or downhill running. In fact, MAX may increase impact loading when running downhill compared to traditional running shoes (TRS).
Area of Science:
- Biomechanics
- Sports Medicine
- Running Technology
Background:
- Maximalist (MAX) running shoes feature oversized midsoles for enhanced cushioning.
- These shoes are marketed to improve shock absorption, especially during downhill running.
- The actual impact on running biomechanics, particularly external impact loading, remains under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of MAX footwear on external impact loading.
- To assess changes in footstrike pattern and stride length during level and downhill running.
- To compare MAX shoes against traditional running shoes (TRS) in these parameters.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-seven distance runners participated in treadmill trials.
- Participants ran in both MAX and TRS on level (0%) and downhill (10%) surfaces.
- External impact loading rates (average and instantaneous) and stride characteristics were measured.
Main Results:
- A 12% higher instantaneous loading rate (ILR) was observed in downhill running with MAX compared to TRS.
- No significant differences in loading rates or stride length were found on level surfaces.
- Most runners maintained their habitual footstrike pattern across both footwear conditions.
Conclusions:
- Maximalist footwear may not effectively reduce external impact loading for runners.
- MAX shoes could potentially increase impact loading during downhill treadmill running.
- Further research is needed to understand the long-term effects and biomechanical implications of MAX footwear.
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