Benefits of Carbon Plate Running Shoes
Carbon plate running shoes, commonly referred to as “super shoes,” have become increasingly popular among serious runners, as they provide enhanced performance benefits for both long- and short-distance racing. With more top brands like Nike, HOKA, and Brooks offering carbon-plated styles, many runners wonder if they’re worth the investment. Our Footwear Experts walk you through frequently asked questions about carbon plate running shoes as well as their primary benefits, so you can decide if they’re the best fit for your next race.
What Are Carbon Plate Running Shoes?
Carbon plate running shoes are high-performance running shoes that feature a carbon fiber plate sandwiched or molded between two layers of foam, located in the midsole section of the shoe. These shoes are specifically designed to cater to the needs of long-distance runners and marathoners.
What Does a Carbon Plate Do in a Running Shoe?
A carbon plate in a running shoe serves as a mechanism for propulsion. Carbon plates store and return energy with each stride allowing runners to conserve energy and maintain their pace more efficiently. These shoes ultimately help with:
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Maintaining pace
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Storing and returning energy
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Propelling the runner forward
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Maximizing running efficiency
Benefits of Carbon Plate Running Shoes
Carbon plate running shoes provide several key benefits for serious runners:
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Enhanced energy efficiency, allowing for more efficient running over long distances
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Reduced leg fatigue, enabling runners to perform at a higher level for longer periods
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Lower risk of injury due to reduced strain on the legs and feet
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Improved cushioning and shock absorption for a more comfortable running experience
All of these benefits add up to a high-performance race shoe that can help you reach your PR.
Related Expert Content | The Best Carbon Plate Running Shoes
How Long Do Carbon Plate Running Shoes Last?
Even with proper care, most carbon plate running shoes will not last as long as your road running shoes. Generally, carbon plate shoes will last anywhere from 150 to 200 miles. We recommend rotating through a few different pairs of running shoes including your carbon plate shoes when training. This ensures that you aren’t wearing new shoes on race day but they also aren’t worn out by the time you get to the start line.
Note: Most carbon plate shoes are designed for race day, which means they sacrifice durability and structure for speed and lightweight performance. Super trainers, like HOKA’s Skyward X, are durable and designed for daily miles yet feature a carbon plate for more energy return.
Carbon plate running shoes provide runners with enhanced energy efficiency, improved cushioning and shock absorption, and reduced strain on the legs and feet when running long distances. While the exact improvement in running times varies from person to person, carbon plate running shoes can help to improve results for any level of runner.
Related Expert Content | Running Shoe Rotation—Why It’s Important
As more top brands continue to release new versions of carbon plate running shoes, there is no better time to try out these high-performance shoes and take your race times to the next level. If you have additional questions about carbon plate running shoes or need assistance finding your perfect fit, visit your local SCHEELS to speak with a Footwear Expert.