What's a Super Shoe, Anyway?
A quick look at how one shoe changed running — and what it means for you.
The Warm Up
Welcome to the inaugural edition of the Find The Run newsletter! Today we're diving into the rise of super shoes — those bouncy, rocket-powered sneakers that have redefined running performance. From Eliud Kipchoge’s historic sub-2 hour marathon to the tech packed under your feet, we'll break down how super shoes work, why they matter, and whether they’re worth the hefty price tag for everyday runners. Let’s lace up and get moving.
The Rise of Super Shoes
Super shoes began their rise to fame in 2019 when Eliud Kipchoge, the Kenyan marathon legend, broke the marathon world record in Berlin, running 2:01:39 wearing a Nike Zoom Vaporfly 4% prototype — named for Nike’s claim that it could improve running efficiency by up to 4%.
It was his 2020 performance at the INEOS 1:59 Challenge that sent super shoes into the stratosphere of popularity. Kipchoge became the first person to run a marathon under two hours (1:59:40), wearing the Nike AlphaFly NEXT%. While not officially recognized as a world record due to controlled race conditions, the feat showcased the raw power of this new footwear technology.
Eliud Kipchoge Mural Celebrating Sub-2 Hour Marathon (see: 1:59:40, lower right)
Since then, elite runners and amateurs alike have embraced super shoes in major races, fueling their meteoric rise — and sparking debates about fairness, innovation, and the future of running.
The Science Behind the Speed
Those brightly colored, seemingly springy running shoes aren’t just a fashion statement — they’re packed with technological advances that turn wasted energy into speed.
The “Bouncy Castle” Midsole: Forget about standard foam. Super shoes use special ultra-lightweight materials like PEBA (polyether block amide). These foams are incredibly resilient, meaning they compress easily on impact but then spring back with impressive force. This high energy return reduces the energy you expend with each step. Plus the maximal stack height (that thick sole) means more of this bouncy goodness underfoot!
The Secret Weapon — The Carbon Fiber Plate: Imagine a stiff, curved plate embedded inside the midsole. It increases the shoe’s longitudinal bending stiffness, minimizing energy loss at your toes during push-off. Think of it as a lever, as you load your forefoot, the plate stiffens and helps propel you forward, reducing the workload on your calf muscles.
Smooth Sailing with Rocker Geometry: Notice that curved sole? That’s the rocker design. It’s engineered to create a smoother and faster transition from foot strike to toe-off. It essentially “rolls” your foot forward, making your stride more efficient and contributing to forward momentum.
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly
Worth It?
Ouch, my wallet! These shoes are expensive, often twice the price of regular running shoes. So how do non-elite runners determine whether we should invest in shoes that claim to improve our running speeds?
We believe everyone deserves to feel fast, confident, and excited to run — whether you’re chasing a PR or just chasing good vibes. Super shoes aren’t just for elites. If they make you feel good and you’ve got the budget, go for it. If not, no sweat — consistent training, good shoes (super or not), and enjoying the process matter most.
Super shoes will offer a performance advantage, especially in races, but they’re not for everyone. Consider your goals, budget, and how they feel on your feet before taking the plunge.
Popular Picks
ON Cloudboom Strike - Ultra-responsive. Ultra-cushioned.
Nike Alphafly 3 - The original super shoe, evolved.
HOKA Rocket X2 - Sleek, responsive, and built for pure speed.
What shoes are you racing in these days — and what’s next on your wishlist? Drop a comment, we’d love to hear.
Get Ready to Fly
Ready to put those super shoes to the ultimate test? All that incredible science and engineering is designed for one thing: to help you cross the finish line faster and stronger. So why not see what they can do? Head over to Find The Run today and discover races happening in your local area. Whether you're aiming for a 5K personal best or tackling a marathon, there's an event waiting for you. Sign up, lace up those super shoes, and experience the thrill of pushing your limits. We'll see you at the starting line!
Currently running in saucony endorphin speed 4s!! I love them. Need to think about which super shoe I should try for a race though - maybe the on clouds
Cheering 📣 From Basecamp: Slow 🦥 Nature Walker..Love ❤️ Ganga 🎄