Super Shoes on Super Legs: What Boston Marathon 2025 Taught Us About Race-Day Footwear

The 2025 Boston Marathon was not only a display of elite endurance but also a showcase of the latest innovations in running footwear. As a sports podiatrist, I pay close attention to the technology that supports these performances—especially carbon-plated “super shoes.” These high-performance shoes have become standard gear among professional athletes, offering a mix of propulsion, energy return, and efficiency that can significantly impact race-day outcomes. But for recreational runners, understanding what these shoes do—and whether they’re a smart choice—is just as important. At Arya Foot & Ankle we often get questions about these trendy super shoes!

Men’s winner John Korir crossed the finish line in a prototype version of the ASICS Metaspeed Sky+, a shoe tailored to runners who lengthen their stride as they increase speed. This model features a full-length carbon fiber plate, a responsive foam midsole, and a rocker design to enhance forward motion and reduce fatigue. On the women’s side, Sharon Lokedi broke the course record wearing a prototype of Under Armour’s upcoming Velociti Elite 3. This shoe includes a full-length carbon plate, dual-density midsole construction (combining Pebax foam for cushioning and UA Flow foam for responsiveness), and a design that maximizes energy return. Notably, Hellen Obiri, who finished second in the women’s race, wore the On Cloudboom Strike LS Dev1.2 prototype—another carbon-plated racer, uniquely built using robotic automation and boasting a laceless upper for reduced weight and added efficiency.

What do these footwear choices mean for everyday runners? While it’s tempting to assume that carbon-plated shoes are universally beneficial, the reality is more nuanced. These shoes CAN enhance performance—like in races or speed-focused sessions—but they also alter your natural biomechanics!  In my clinical practice, I’ve seen cases of metatarsal overload, Achilles strain, and calf tightness from runners who incorporated these shoes too quickly or used them for daily training rather than specific efforts.

Super shoes are powerful tools, but like any tool, they need to be used appropriately. If you’re considering investing in a carbon-plated shoe, I strongly recommend a gait and foot strike assessment to ensure it aligns with your mechanics and goals. I do a full gait analysis as well as evaluating every patient in your exam with over a decade of experience. The right shoe can help you chase PRs and improve performance—but only if it complements the way you move. Everyone is different and you may not respond the same way as John Korir!

If you’re curious about what’s best for your body and goals, I invite you to schedule a consultation at Arya Foot & Ankle. Together, we’ll build a footwear strategy that supports both performance and long-term foot health!

Author

Dr. Shylaja Arya Dr. Arya is the owner of Arya Foot & Ankle, a podiatry practice that serves the greater Phoenix area with same day, Saturday, and lunch time appointments. She is a level 500 yoga instructor, tennis player, dog mom and shoe lover!