Not too long ago, the elites wore a racing a shoe. The more competitive runner wore a lightweight trainer. The majority of runners competing in a marathon wore a comfortable cushioned shoe that best suited their running gait.
There is now another option. All brands now have a marathon performance shoe. The carbon racing shoe is cushioned and incredibly quick. Running records at elite and club level have been rewritten over the last few years. Is it the shoes? Yes!!
The big question though is should all marathon runners be wearing a carbon plated performance shoe on race day? Running coach and shoe retailer Matt Whiting
suggests the following:
Elite runners are running the 26.2 mile distance at an incredibly quick pace. The new breed of super performance running shoe is clearly resulting in quicker times. Does it come at a cost though. It certainly does! These shoes will set you back a few extra pounds!
The more responsive foams and plated shoes will give you a higher energy return but
will encourage your foot to land more mid foot, pronate more and generate more force though your lower leg. For some runners, this won't be a problem but for a lot, this might not be the best option. It doesn't really add up, that we stress the importance of getting gait analysis to get the right shoe and to then recommend/sell you a shoe that does the exact opposite for probably the longest, hardest run of your life.
So, who should be buying the new super racing shoes? They will help a lot of runners achieve quicker times but thought should be given to whether the potential risks they offer, outweigh the benefits. Alongside the top end end racing shoes are a lot of other (cheaper) more 'suitable performance options'.
These shoes will often have a bit more flexibility, be less aggressive in how they push your foot forward and be more stable. A Ferrari might be quicker than a saloon car but the latter will probably be quick enough for your long drive and be more comfortable.
Compare four of our favourite Carbon racing shoes below:
Going Carbon? Heres four of our favourites
