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Supershoes, with their advanced technologies such as carbon plates and rocker midsoles, are revolutionizing trail running by improving the performance of those who own them.
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David Roche and other ultrarunners point out that these shoes not only increase speed, but reduce recovery time.
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Although popular, some runners still prefer minimalist approaches, viewing supershoes as a support, and not a complete solution.
Theso-called supershoes are changing the game in many areas of running.
They started on the road and eventually made their way to mountain trails as well, and then into trailrunning.
First of all: what is meant by supershoes?
In a nutshell, they are shoes with substantial stacks (i.e., a very pronounced midsole, over 35 mm), adopting very responsive compounds that often also integrate a carbon fiber plate.
Speaking about them in more detail is David Roche, one of the world’s top ultrarunners, calling them “game-changers,” meaning something that changes the rules of the game.
It’s not a bad idea to listen to him, don’t you think?
With which does Roche run?
Roche’s shoes are the Adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra.
He had them on his feet when he set the new record at the Leadville 100; they are designed to do just that: push you further.
It’s important to say that Roche does not have a sponsorship deal with adidas, so he speaks of them with total sincerity, calling them “something revolutionary.”
But what makes them so special?
In a nutshell, they are shoes that not only improve performance because of the features we were telling you about earlier, but also help reduce stress on the body during and then also after running, since they reduce recovery time.
And this is precisely what makes them so attractive to those who run long distances.
Why supershoes are messing up the rules of the game even in the trail
Think for a moment about the change they have brought to road running.
When Nike launched the Vaporfly in 2016, everyone was talking about those runners who, with these shoes on their feet, almost seemed to have an unfair advantage (there were those who spoke of “mechanical doping”).
The same is happening now in trail running.
Roche points out that these shoes not only improve speed, but, as he said, they also help with recovery.
That means they also allow you to reduce the time between workouts.
Roche is not the only one who is convinced.
Recent UTMB winner Vincent Bouillard (who runs in Hoka Tecton 3s) feels the same way, along with Katie Schide who dominated UTMB and Western States in North Face Summit Vectiv Pro shoes. Coincidences? Perhaps, but the doubt remains.
adidas Terrex Agravic Speed Ultra
The shoe that helped Roche break the record at the Leadville 100 has all the hallmarks of a super shoe: a midsole with a pronounced rocker for smoother transition and a thickness of as much as 42 mm that provides exceptional cushioning, perfect for tackling rugged terrain and continuous elevation changes.
However, like any shoe, it is not perfect: not in itself but because it is not suitable for everyone.
Roche himself admits that some people may find it unstable, especially if they have a stride that makes them run more on their heel than on their midfoot.
As they say, you just have to know.
A natural evolution
Those who have been in this industry for a few years will not miss the similarity between supershoes and what used to be called maximal shoes: shoes with a very thick midsole and a very wide footprint.
Some loved them for their protection, others preferred more minimalist approaches (this is also why they were called “maximal”: because their opposite was “minimal”).
Now, with super shoes, many ultrarunners are changing their minds because of the performance they provide.
And especially because, especially for athletes whose bodies are sorely tested by long training sessions and equally long races, it is not only about running faster, but also about doing so with less fatigue and less physical stress.
David Roche points out that, until a few years ago, there was a debate about how useful these shoes were.
Now, the discussion seems to have shifted to who has already adopted them and who is still thinking about them.
The word to science
Although the research is still at an early stage, there are promising studies.
An article published in Scientific Reports suggests that supershoes might actually reduce stress on certain areas of the body, helping runners recover faster.
So if you’re wondering if all these technological innovations have a scientific basis, the answer is: probably yes.
Despite the rise in popularity, there are still those who prefer a more minimalist approach.
The reason, according to several opinions, is that relying too much on shoes might make us forget the importance of technique and foot strength.
It’s definitely a topic to consider, and as is often the case, the truth may lie somewhere in between, perhaps welcoming it as a reminder that super shoes are never a substitute for good preparation, but they can certainly help you push your limits a bit.
Are you curious about them?
Is it worth investing in a pair of super shoes?
If you are someone who aims to improve your performance in long races or reduce your recovery time, the answer might be yes.
However, it always depends, as the most important thing is to find what works best for you.
Roche has called himself “polyamorous” when it comes to shoes, suggesting that no shoe is perfect for every situation and that it is no problem for him to “marry” different ones, depending on the type of work or race he has to support.
So our invitation is to try different models, taking the time to adapt and always considering your specific needs.
Not all shoes are the same, not all feet are the same, and every foot wants its own shoe.
But we’re repeating ourselves.
(via Advnture)