Enhancing Performance with Super Spike Running Shoes
With each Olympic season, athletes and facilities strive to incorporate new technologies to improve performance and provide tailored support for competitors. Since 2016, a growing number of runners have been opting for shoes equipped with “super spikes”—innovative combinations of specialty foams and plates on soles that offer a lighter, bouncier, and more comfortable footwear experience.
Debates have been ongoing for years regarding whether super spikes provide an unfair advantage to athletes, especially when some countries do not have access to this technology. Recent research, however, indicates a clear answer: Super spikes can significantly impact running times.
In a recent study published in the International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, researchers from St. Edward’s University and the University of Michigan conducted trials with male runners wearing super spikes, traditional track spiked shoes, and flat-soled running shoes. The results showed that super spikes improved running economy by approximately two percent, leading to a 1-1.5 percent enhancement in running times.
While these percentage increases may seem small, they can make a substantial difference in races. For instance, a 2-percent improvement in running economy during a 10,000 meter race could potentially shave off 25 seconds from a runner’s final time. Considering the current world records for 10,000 meter runs, this improvement could be game-changing.
Geoff Burns, a sport physiologist with the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee, emphasized the significance of this finding, stating that a slight increase in running economy could determine an athlete’s success in competitions like the Olympics.
Although super spikes offer advantages, the choice of footwear ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. While some athletes benefit from cushioning, others may prefer reduced weight. It is crucial for athletes to choose the shoes that feel most comfortable and supportive for their performance.
Despite the benefits of super spikes, not all athletes may have access to this technology due to financial constraints. This raises important considerations of equity and economics in sports, particularly for aspiring runners aiming for Olympic success.
The 2024 Paris Olympics Track and Field events are set to kick off on August 1, showcasing the latest advancements in athletic performance and technology.
