Running in highly cushioned shoes increases leg stiffness and amplifies impact loading

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Sports Medicine
• Running Technology

Background:

• Running shoe cushioning is a common strategy to reduce impact loading and prevent injuries.
• Despite advancements in cushioning technology, running-related injuries have not declined.
• A paradox exists where increased shoe cushioning has not led to decreased injury rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of highly cushioned maximalist running shoes on impact loading and running mechanics.
• To understand the 'cushioning paradox' in running shoe technology.
• To compare biomechanical responses between conventional and maximalist running shoes at different speeds.

Main Methods:

• Experimental study comparing a conventional running shoe with a highly cushioned maximalist shoe.
• Analysis of impact loading and spring-like running mechanics.
• Data collection at two distinct running speeds: 10 km/h and 14.5 km/h.

Main Results:

• Highly cushioned maximalist shoes altered running mechanics and amplified impact loading, rather than attenuating it.
• Amplified impact loading was more pronounced at faster speeds (14.5 km/h), with higher impact peaks and loading rates.
• Maximalist shoes led to a stiffer leg response during landing compared to conventional shoes.

Conclusions:

• Maximalist running shoes may not protect against impact-related injuries and could potentially increase them.
• The increased impact loading in maximalist shoes might be attributed to altered leg stiffness during the landing phase.
• Current running shoe cushioning strategies may need re-evaluation to effectively address injury prevention.