Carbon plate running shoes have taken the running world by storm, and with good reason. These shoes feature a carbon fiber plate in the midsole, which helps improve running efficiency and performance. In fact, studies have shown that carbon plate shoes can make a significant difference in race times.
According to a study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences1, carbon plate running shoes can improve running economy by 4% on average. This means that runners can use less energy to maintain a given pace, which can make a big difference over the course of a race. For example, a runner who can maintain a 6-minute mile pace in traditional running shoes may be able to run a 5:45 mile in carbon plate shoes.
Another study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine2 found that runners wearing carbon plate shoes improved their marathon times by an average of 1.2%. This may not sound like much, but it can equate to several minutes off a runner’s finishing time, which can be a significant improvement.
It’s important to note that the benefits of carbon plate running shoes may vary from runner to runner. Some runners may see a more significant improvement in performance than others, depending on factors such as running form, fitness level, and the type of race or terrain. However, the overall trend is clear: carbon plate shoes can make a difference in race times.
In conclusion, if you’re a runner looking to improve your performance, carbon plate running shoes may be worth considering. With their ability to improve running economy and reduce the risk of injury, these shoes can help you run faster and more efficiently. While they may be more expensive than traditional running shoes, the benefits may be well worth the investment.
- Hoogkamer, W., Kipp, S., Frank, J. H., Farina, E. M., Luo, G., & Kram, R. (2018). A comparison of the energetic cost of running in marathon racing shoes. Sports Medicine, 48(5), 1009-1019.
- Barnes, K. R., Kilding, A. E., & Austin, D. (2020). A comparison of two high-performance footwear models on marathon performance: a randomized, crossover, controlled trial. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 54(17), 1039-1045.