Carbon-plate running shoes move beyond elite racers
NBC Select says carbon-plate sneakers pair stiff plates with advanced foam and are now marketed to recreational runners as well as marathoners.
By Priya Raghavan · Science Reporter
2 min read
Carbon-plate running shoes, the high-cushion sneakers often seen at races, are being pitched to more than elite athletes. NBC Select reported that the shoes, often called “super shoes,” are designed to feel light, fast and propulsive, with performance foam playing a major role alongside the plate.
Nike released the first modern super shoe in 2017, according to NBC Select. Since then, the outlet reported, running brands have built their own versions for both professional competitors and recreational runners.
Kenny Krotzer, a senior innovation developer at Brooks Running, told NBC Select that runners do not need to be elite to use carbon-plated shoes. He said the shoes can help recreational 5K runners maintain faster paces for longer while using less effort.
How the shoes are described
NBC Select said carbon-plate running shoes are known for a springy feel, tall cushioning and low weight. The outlet reported that their appeal is strongest among marathon runners and athletes trying to improve personal records.
The plate is only part of the design, according to NBC Select. The outlet said high-performance foam is another key feature behind the sensation runners associate with the shoes.
Krotzer’s comments were included in a buying guide that also noted Brooks products were selected independently of his involvement, according to NBC Select. The outlet said it independently chooses products to cover and may earn a commission when readers buy through its links.
Models highlighted by NBC Select
NBC Select listed several carbon-plate models across race-day and training categories, with prices ranging from $170 to $290 in the recommendations shown.
- NBC Select named the Nike Alphafly 3 its best racing pick and listed it at $285.
- The outlet chose the Puma Deviate Nitro 4 as its training pick and listed it at $170.
- NBC Select selected the Brooks Hyperion Elite 5 for a custom plate category, showing a sale price of $199.95 and a regular price of $275.
- The outlet identified the Saucony Endorphin Elite 2 as its most breathable pick, showing a sale price of $234.95 and a regular price of $290.
- NBC Select named the New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 its pick for wide feet and listed it at $264.94 through Zappos.
- The outlet listed the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4 as a pick for neutral arches.
The guide framed the shoes as a category for racing and training rather than a product reserved for professional competition. NBC Select’s reporting centered on how runners should understand the combination of plate, foam and intended use before choosing a pair.
This story draws on original reporting from NBC News Health.