Nov 5: New York Marathon
 
Adidas and Nike running the show 

World Athletics maintain seismic shifts in “super shoe” technology correlate with specifications updated only last year, as rivals Adidas and Nike battle to create the ultimate running accessory


SUPER SHOE ANATOMY
   
Adizero Adios Pro Evo 1s
Available to public

Stack height
Foam heel limited to 40mm. Potential to increase stride length, contributing to faster running pace
  
Carbon-fibre plate
Reduces flex and energy loss – promotes optimum rocking motion, triggering forward momentum


Nike Alphafly 3s
Ratified for developmental use – available to public January 2024

Responsive midsole foam 
Material called Pebax makes shoe lighter and provides greater energy return

Outsole
Made as light as possible. Research suggests saving 100 grams of weight can equate to 1% energy return


Kelvin Kiptum (KEN)
Broke World Record in Chicago – wearing prototype of Nike’s Alphafly 3s – while former women’s World Record holder Brigid Kosgei (KEN, inset) is set to race in New York


Sources: Adidas, Nike, Olympics.com 
Pictures: Adidas, Nike, Getty Images 
© GRAPHIC NEWS