2017's introduction of Nike's "super shoe" with carbon-fibre plates and new technologies impacted athletic performance, but lack of data supports personalized shoe choices.
The article highlights the impact of running shoes on athletic performance, focusing on Olympian Ben Flanagan and other runners who have experienced the benefits of new technologies in these shoes. The rise of the "super shoe," introduced by Nike in 2017 and featuring carbon-fibre plates, lightweight midsole materials, extra cushioning, and improved design, has significantly influenced the sport. However, there is a lack of substantive data supporting the belief that certain shoes are better suited for specific runners. The article suggests that recreational runners visit a running store to gather information on various shoe models and ask for feedback to narrow down choices based on weekly mileage and average run duration.