Embracing the Challenge: The Ethics of Super Shoes in Triathlon
In the world of triathlon, where every second counts and the competition is fierce, the emergence of "super shoes" has sparked a heated debate about ethics, fairness, and the spirit of sport. These high-tech shoes, designed to push the boundaries of what's possible, have become a topic of controversy, especially when they cross the line into what's considered illegal by governing bodies like World Athletics and World Triathlon.
The Rise of Super Shoes
A few years back, World Athletics set a precedent by banning shoes with a stack height greater than 40mm and those containing more than one rigid plate. This rule was aimed at leveling the playing field and maintaining the integrity of the sport. The ripple effect was felt in the triathlon community when major organizations like Ironman, Challenge Family, and USA Triathlon adopted similar restrictions.
Despite these regulations, several brands have boldly ventured into creating models that blatantly exceed these limits, presenting both amateur and professional athletes with a moral quandary. Should one capitalize on these technological advances at the risk of flouting the rules?
Training in the Grey: A Personal Perspective
As someone who has pounded the pavement for over 100,000 miles, the allure of super shoes is undeniable. They promise a spring in your step, a zest that rejuvenates tired legs, and an undeniable boost in performance. But the question looms large: is it ethical to train in shoes that you wouldn't legally race in?
From a personal standpoint, training in super shoes can be likened to a cyclist using a motor pacer or an athlete training on an Alter-G treadmill. These tools offer the chance to experience race pace without the full physical toll, preparing the body for what's to come without crossing ethical lines, provided they're not used in actual competition.
The Ethical Divide: Racing and Personal Integrity
The crux of the ethical debate lies in racing. Sabrina Little, a philosophy professor and seasoned ultramarathon runner, articulates a clear stance. Participating in a race, she argues, is entering into a social contract where fairness is paramount. Using performance-enhancing shoes in a race setting, even if you're not podium-bound, breaches this contract and undermines the collective agreement on what constitutes fair competition.
This perspective challenges us to reflect on the broader implications of our choices. It's not merely about individual gain but about respecting the community and the sport itself. Whether it's a local 5K or an Ironman, the integrity of one's achievements should not be clouded by technological shortcuts.
Beyond the Race: FKTs, Strava, and Personal Challenges
The conversation takes a different turn when considering less regulated aspects of endurance sports like Fastest Known Times (FKTs) or Strava segments. Here, the lines are blurrier. These platforms and events often lack the stringent oversight of formal races, offering a playground where personal ethics can dictate choices more freely.
Yet, even in these scenarios, the shadow of fairness looms. While it might be tempting to chase personal glory with the aid of super shoes, the true satisfaction comes from knowing your achievements were earned through grit and determination, not just advanced footwear.
Several running shoe models have been developed that exceed the regulations set by World Athletics for competition use, making them "illegal" for official races.
Here are some examples of these super-duper shoes:
PUMA Fast RB Nitro Elite
This is perhaps the most extreme example of an "illegal" running shoe[1]:
- Features a 58mm stack height in the heel, which is 18mm above the legal limit
- Has 46mm stack height in the forefoot
- Incorporates three carbon plates that overlap under the ball of the foot
- Has a decoupled midsole, meaning the forefoot and heel aren't connected
- Only 1,000 pairs were made available worldwide
Adidas Adizero Prime X
This shoe has been worn by several high-profile athletes in races before being banned[4]:
- Has a 55mm stack height, exceeding the 40mm limit
- Was used by Patrick Lange and Ruth Astle to win the Ironman Israel Middle East Championship in December 2022
On Prototypes (worn by Gustav Iden)
While not a commercially available model, these shoes gained attention when used to win the Ironman World Championship[4]:
- Based on the Cloudboom Echo 3 model
- Featured a midsole thicker than the 40mm limit
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Trainers
These shoes are marketed specifically as training shoes due to their illegal status for racing[5]:
- Have a 47mm midfoot stack height, 7mm above the legal limit
- Feature a carbon plate for enhanced propulsion
It's important to note that while these shoes are not legal for use in official competitions governed by World Athletics rules (which many major races follow), they are still available for purchase and can be used in training or unofficial events. The regulations primarily affect elite athletes and those competing in sanctioned races[3][4].
Conclusion: A Call to Fair Play
The evolution of running technology, exemplified by super shoes, invites us to examine the essence of competition and the values we hold dear in triathlon and beyond. As we lace up, whether for a training run or a race, let's choose paths that honor not only our personal ambitions but also the collective spirit of our sports community.
In the end, the true measure of our achievements lies not in the shoes we wear but in the honesty and integrity we bring to every step of the journey. Let's run, let's race, but above all, let's respect the game and each other.
What are super-duper shoes?
Super-duper shoes refer to advanced running shoes that have a stack height greater than 40mm or contain more than one rigid plate, providing performance-enhancing properties that are not allowed in official race competitions.
Are super-duper shoes legal in triathlons?
No, super-duper shoes are not legal in triathlon races that follow the World Triathlon regulations, which prohibit shoes with a stack height over 40mm or those containing multiple rigid plates.
Can I train using super-duper shoes?
Yes, using super-duper shoes for training is generally considered acceptable, as training does not have the same rule restrictions as races. They can assist in improving performance by reducing strain during training sessions.
Is it ethical to race in super-duper shoes?
Racing in super-duper shoes is considered unethical as it violates the rules and the spirit of sport, even if not explicitly enforced for amateur racers. It's a breach of the competition's fairness agreement.
What are the ethical implications of using super-duper shoes for personal challenges?
The ethics around using super-duper shoes for personal challenges like FKTs or Strava segments are less clear. Some believe such use is acceptable, as these activities are often self-regulated, but it's suggested to be cautious about creating unfair advantages.
#SuperShoesEthics #TriathlonRules
Source: https://www.triathlete.com/gear/run/ethics-of-using-illegal-super-shoes-running/
Citations: [1] https://therunningchannel.com/worlds-craziest-most-illegal-running-shoe/ [2] https://www.runnersworld.com/uk/gear/shoes/a60110956/super-trainers-illegal-running-shoes/ [3] https://run.outsideonline.com/gear/road-shoes/illegal-running-shoes-cheating-or-not/ [4] https://www.triathlete.com/gear/run/certain-supershoes-deemed-illegal-under-new-rules/ [5] https://www.triathlete.com/gear/run/we-tried-the-illegal-new-balance-fuelcell-supercomp-trainers/ [6] https://ashleymateo.substack.com/p/is-running-in-carbon-plated-shoes [7] https://moulislegal.com/knowledge-centre/sports-technology-law-and-regulation-the-battle-of-the-super-shoe/
