Matt is joined by Dr. Iain Hunter of Brigham Young University's Exercise Science department for an evidence-based deep dive into the science of super shoes. Drawing on his own research, Dr. Hunter explores the wide variability in how runners respond to plated footwear and tackles the practical questions runners are asking — whether super shoes are right for everyone, how to find the right fit, and how to integrate them wisely into training. They also dig into what the research says about tendon health, trail super shoes, and maintaining foot and calf strength.

Dr. Hunter completed a mathematics education degree with a coaching minor at BYU followed by a Master's of Education in coaching. His interests in biomechanics grew during his master's degree which led him to continue education with a PhD in Health and Human Performance at Oregon State University. He teaches biomechanics while working with USA Track and Field applying his research to elite distance runners.

Get your DOR Merch: https://doctors-of-running.myspreadshop.com/

We're thrilled to have Rabbit as a presenting partner! You can use code SPRINGDOCS to get 10% off your entire order of $50.00 or more. Note that the code is limited to one use per customer and can’t combined with other discounts. The code is active from 1st of every month to last day at 11:59PM PST, but don't worry because we'll be bringing you a new code every month. Shop now at https://www.runinrabbit.com.

Our In For Testing segment is fueled by Skratch Labs! Get 20% off your first order from Skratch with code: DOCTORSOFRUNNING! https://www.skratchlabs.com

Chapters

0:00 - Intro
2:20 - Dr. Iain Hunter's background
6:48 - How the results of Iain's studies have impacted his training
11:20 - How do people's responses to super shoes vary?
21:54 - Does everyone need a super shoe? How should they find the right one for them?
25:48 - Advice on training in super shoes
30:42 - How super shoe effect tendon health
41:34 - What's the research on trail super shoes?
45:10 - How to maintain foot & calf strength
50:28 - What's coming next for Dr. Hunter's research?
53:02 - Adapting to super shoes
57:44 - Finding Dr. Hunter's work online
59:16 - Wrap-up

exercise science