The mere belief in super shoes can boost perceived performance, according to a recent study published in Footwear Science. The research found that although no performance differences were observed, athletes felt more comfortable, enjoyed their run more and perceived the activity as easier when they wore shoes with advanced footwear technology (AFT), compared to when they wore shoes described to them as “knock-off” versions–but were unaware that the shoes were identical.
The study used Nike’s ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 to investigate the potential placebo effect of AFT on running economy (RE) and perceptual measures in recreational runners. The study’s 24 female participants, who had never run in super shoes before, were informed that the investigation aimed to assess whether super shoes improved RE and comfort compared to knock-off shoes.
According to the study, super shoes must meet certain criteria, including “a stiff, curved plate in the midsole, curved midsole geometry, and high amount of lightweight resilient high-energy returning foam made from materials like polyester block amide.” Since super shoes first emerged in 2016, every world record from the 5K to the marathon has fallen, and almost all major running brands, including Nike, New Balance and Asics, have introduced their own version of the technology.
Shaping perceptions
To strengthen the perception of the super shoes’ effectiveness, researchers emphasized their high price tag and significant benefits. Descriptions like “best on the market,” “running feels easier,” “propels you forward” and “Athletes wearing these super shoes are breaking world records at every distance” were used to reinforce the shoes’ performance-enhancing qualities.
In regards to the knock-off shoes, the study told participants, “They look almost the same, but they do not have advanced footwear technologies. It is just regular foam and it does not have a carbon-fibre plate. Elite athletes would never wear these to race. You can buy a pair of these online for $100. This is our basic control shoe to see how much better the super shoe is.” The knock-off shoes were, in fact, also a pair of ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2, simply covered in black spray paint.
The experiment
After a 10-minute warmup at a self-selected speed, participants were fitted with metabolic testing equipment and completed four sets of six-minute trials (two in each shoe) on a motorized treadmill set to a speed of 10km/h. The runners then filled out a 12-question survey examining perceptions of overall comfort, shoe properties, and overall running experience.
While there were no significant differences in physical performance or RE between the super shoes and knock-offs, 87.5 per cent of participants preferred the super shoe due to comfort, performance-enhancing qualities, increased enjoyability and lower risk of injury.
The placebo effect
While the placebo effect did not directly enhance physical ability in this experiment, the belief in high-tech footwear still provided indirect benefits, which can in turn boost confidence, motivation and provide an overall more enjoyable running experience.
