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Whatever shoe you choose, there’s no road these carbon fibre creations can’t chew up and digest.
Thanks to carbon fibre, they're all lighter, stronger, and more responsive. But why should those sports get to have all the fun? Luckily, running shoes can share in some of the glory. And what an awesome time to be a runner, as shoe companies are racing to produce carbon fibre plates for the best possible running experience with the most optimum results.Whatever shoe you choose, there's no road these carbon fibre creations can't chew up and digest.
The run-down on carbon fibre shoes
If you're looking for a little extra edge in your run, carbon-plated running shoes are just the ticket. We realise it may sound counter intuitive to put something five times stronger than steel and twice as stiff in your shoe, but the carbon fibre plate actually helps the foam compress and expand more quickly, returning more energy to the runner while delaying fatigue. Paired with responsive foams and lightweight uppers, these shoes provide maximum comfort with minimal weight.The carbon plate also helps to stabilise your ankle, reducing rotational forces and lessening the workload for the calves, so you stay fresher for longer and recover more quickly.
Run fast or slow, carbon fibre's the way to go.
The good news is you don't have to be an elite marathon runner to wear these shoes. Carbon fibre plates could potentially shave minutes off your time, provided you have a proper running technique.
It's no wonder in the major marathons of 2019, the runners donning carbon fibre shoes grabbed 31 out of 36 podium positions. Serious athletes just can't compete without them. Of course, having a reputation as a super shoe could also have a positive psychological effect you when you lace them up. So, they've got that going for them. Plus, they make you look like you really know what you're doing. They stand out, and so do you. It's a win, win.
Of course, having a reputation as a super shoe could also have a positive psychological effect you when you lace them up. So, they’ve got that going for them. Plus, they make you look like you really know what you’re doing. They stand out, and so do you. It’s a win, win.
Carbon fibre’s Impact on training
Carbon fibre plates will make a measurable difference in your training. They:
- Propel you forward faster
- Improve running performance
- Work hard for long distances
- Encourage ease of movement
Running shoes with carbon fibre are obviously made for race days, but they can also be worn for shorter, faster workouts such as intervals, hill sprints, and general speed training. For easier workouts, try regular running shoes to keep your carbon-plated super shoes fresh for competitions.
Are all carbon-fibre shoes the same? Let's find out.
Want to find the best carbon fibre shoe for you? Here are some our top picks. Happy running!
Vaporfly 2 – Nike
One of the fastest shoes on the market, this next evolution racing shoe is made to help you fly. It helps improve comfort and breathability with a redesigned upper. Lightweight and incredibly responsive, its patented ZoomX foam has a high rate of energy return for an extra spring with every step. Whether you're running a 10K or a marathon, Vaporfly 2 offers responsive cushioning and secure support to keep you on top of your game.
SC Elite v3 - New Balance
Featuring a full-length carbon-fibre plate sandwiched between New Balance's responsive FuelCell midsole foam, the midsole provides light and bouncy comfort while adding energy return during strides. The shoes are smooth and responsive over short and long distances. In addition, they provide a comfortable, supportive fit without being too heavy, while the forefoot mesh makes them more adaptable to a wide range of foot types.
Adios Pro 3 - Adidas
Built for speed, it’s the ultimate long-distance road racing shoe is designed to elevate your performance. The midsole consists of 2 layers of resilient Lighstrike Pro foam providing cushioning. With optimised ENERGYRODS 2.0 embedded in the midsole, the ADIZERO ADIOS PRO 3 is designed to give you the optimal level of stiffness and energy return. Furthermore, the new lightweight upper provides a high level of support where you need it most.
Supercomp Trainer v1 - New Balance
With the FuelCell SuperComp Trainer, you can take the performance of energy-return technology from race day to a high mileage training shoe. A stacked height midsole houses an arched carbon fibre plate, sandwiched between two layers of FuelCell cushioning, leaving a hollow channel through the middle of the shoe. During each foot strike, the plate flattens, and the energy returns as it reshapes, resulting in a high rebound feeling and strong sense of propulsion.