When it comes to super shoes, runners have embraced the old saying that you get what you pay for. Researchers are still trying to figure out exactly what we’re getting. In “Are Super Shoes Hurting Runners?”, Marathon Handbook examines that question after two of the world’s fastest marathoners, Sabastian Sawe and Tigst Assefa, suffered serious injuries. There’s no evidence their footwear caused them, and experts remain divided. A recent paper found no clear winner between minimalist and advanced footwear. Minimalist shoes may help strengthen foot muscles, and super shoes could reduce tissue damage. In one study of 661 marathon trainees, frequent super-shoe users actually reported fewer injuries than those who never wore them (31% versus 48.9%), although that association doesn’t prove that super shoes provide more protection. For everyday runners, the old-fashioned comfort test may still be your best guide. If you’re curious about carbon-plate technology without buying another pair of expensive racers, VKTRY Performance Insoles offer an option to experiment with. We sent a pair to SMM reader James Ursini (@thejamesursini), who shared his thoughts in a video review. He noted that they made his sneakers feel like super shoes, allowing him to train with carbon-fiber propulsion without wearing out his dedicated race-day shoes before the actual competition. He also reported early hot spots and a break-in period. Our own review, “VKTRY Performance Insoles Can Put a Spring in Your Step in Any Pair of Running Shoes,” found a noticeable spring and softer landings, particularly during tempo efforts. Our testers recommend easing into them and saving them for selected hard workouts rather than every run.
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