Carbon-soled Super Shoes will help you run faster. But do you really need them?

We don’t know if Flash is the most loving character or not, but his superpower to run fast is something many of us have admired. Now, there is something called super shoes. They might not help you to run like flash, but promise to enhance your speed.

Before getting into what makes these shoes so special to cost 20k or more, here's what super shoes are:

• In simple words, super shoes are sneakers made up of lightweight materials. They are typically constructed with lightweight foam compounds, such as Pebax or ZoomX, which provide cushioning and responsiveness without adding unnecessary weight. This allows runners to conserve energy and maintain a faster pace.
• Another crucial element of super shoes is the incorporation of carbon fibre plates. These shoes have flexible plates that are embedded in the midsole of the shoe and act as a lever system, aiding in propulsion and resulting in increased efficiency and speed. 
• If you wanna look at the numbers, the super shoes promise to run at least 4% higher speed than your normal shoes. 
• Super shoes also feature advanced cushioning systems to absorb impact and provide a comfortable running experience.

When did the super shoes come into the picture?

It was in 2017 when super shoes first came into the picture when Eliud Kipchoge, the legendary long-distance runner, first attempted a sub-two-hour full marathon with pair of carbon-plated running shoes from Nike (We can't run for 10 mins, but okay). 

Again, on September 2022, Kipchoge broke the world marathon record with a 2:01:09 finish in Berlin last September. And what he was wearing this time? A pair of fluorescent orange trainers, which were Nike's Air Zoom Alphafly. These trainers have a carbon plate, which helps in the pace of the runner.    

But here's the question: Do you really need one of these pairs?

Of course, the marketing team of these shoe companies will say that you need one. 

You don't have to be an elite runner to enjoy the advantages of running in carbon-plated shoes. While these shoes truly shine when used at high speeds, most super shoes offer efficiency improvements that can benefit any runner.

• However, it's important to note that carbon-plated shoes are primarily designed for serious runners who prioritize speed and achieving faster finish times. It is generally recommended by sports scientists and even physiotherapists to introduce carbon-plated shoes gradually into a training routine.
• This is because these shoes impose a different type of strain on the leg muscles and areas around the shin and ankle, which can potentially lead to stress and injury.

Here are some of the super shoes, if you want to add them to your sneakers collection: 

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