If you are a part of the running community, it would be near impossible to have missed all the buzz around carbon-plated running shoes over the past few years. Since the release of the Nike Vaporfly 4%, runners have been turning to carbon-plated super shoes to enhance their performance and reduce their overall perceived effort when running.

A common misconception from runners is that carbon-plated running shoes are only for "elite runners". This is simply untrue, and the benefits of using carbon-plated running shoes expand beyond speed. Let's dive into the benefits of carbon plate technology.

The benefit:

Running in carbon-plated superhoes improves running economy by enhancing energy return and optimising the musculoskeletal system.

 

What that means:

An improved running economy means that you can run more efficiently while using less energy.

 

How it works:

A carbon plate adds additional structure to the midsole, creating a level of rigidity that increases the stability of the platform, enhancing energy return. A combination of this stiffness and the curvature of a carbon fibre plate assists the foot in the heel-to-toe transition. This reduces additional stress on the ankle, allowing for the heel to lift off the ground faster. This makes it possible for the hips to pass over the centre of gravity, thus increasing forward momentum.

 

The benefits of running in a carbon-plated running shoe will vary from runner to runner. We have listed below some of our favourite carbon-plated shoes, and we recommend heading into your local The Athlete's Foot store to try them out for yourself.

 

New Balance Fuelcell Supercomp Elite V3

 

Put race day first with the New Balance FuelCell Supercomp Elite v3. Designed with a dual focus on energy return and lighter weight, this marathon racer features a dynamic Energy Arc system which pairs advanced carbon fiber plate geometry with strategically shaped and placed midsole voids, designed to increase stored energy to deliver a high amount of total energy returned.

 

Hoka Rocket X 2

Refined with all-new geometries and a hyper-focus on construction, the HOKA Rocket X 2 has been engineered for elite runners as HOKA's pinnacle race day offering. Sandwiching a propulsive carbon fibre plate between a new and improved, ultra-responsive and performance-oriented PEBA foam, the HOKA Rocket X 2 exhibits a greater rebound and an inherently stable ride. Foam cutouts in the outsole allow for a reduced overall weight, without sacrificing any of the durability thanks to the implementation of zonal rubber placements. The HOKA Rocket X 2 offers up a technical synthetic mesh upper that boasts a premium fit and enhanced breathability.

 

Saucony Endorphin Pro 3

It’s speed over everything when you lace up the Saucony Endorphin Pro 3. Designed with a carbon-fiber plate and an even thicker stack of PWRRUNPB foam cushioning, you get more pop underfoot for the ultimate go-fast experience.