The big sportswear brands are locked in an expensive, science-fuelled arms race to build ever-faster running shoes. That’s not surprising, seeing as the global athletic footwear market was valued at a colossal $37.8 billion in 2017 and is predicted to reach $95.14 billion by 2025. But what many people, even regular runners, know much less about is what goes on behind the scenes – how companies arrive at the seemingly endless innovations designed to boost your speed, stamina and running economy.
In February, Asics launched the game-changing Metaride. Priced at £225 in the UK, it’s equipped with a curved Guidesole designed to “rock” your foot more quickly from heel to toe with each step. Research by Progressive Sports Technologies, an innovation consultancy based at Loughborough University, suggests the shoe can deliver a 20% reduction in energy loss around the ankle joint, helping to make runners faster and more efficient.