L19 - equipment testing

Question 1

What are the key features of the Nike Vaporfly?

Answer 1

Lightweight

Thick Pebax midsole with high energy return

Curved carbon fibre plate for increased stiffness

Question 2

What biomechanical changes were observed with VP4 in elite runners?

Answer 2

What biomechanical changes were observed with VP4 in elite runners?

Question 3

What were the physiological findings for VP4 and FLAT?

Answer 3

Improved O₂ consumption and energy cost vs OWN

Non-significant differences for FLAT at 80% VO₂max

Lower RPE at 80% for VP4

Higher comfort rating for OWN

Question 4

How does the carbon plate shape affect performance?

Answer 4

Acts like a teeter-totter, using toe pressure to help lift the heel and improve propulsion.

Question 5

Why is the performance enhancement mechanism considered complex?

Answer 5

The plate and foam work synergistically, and their interaction may be what drives the overall benefit

Question 6

What are the regulatory concerns around super shoes?

Answer 6

Difficult to determine exactly why they work

Raises questions of fairness and historical comparisons

World Athletics banned shoes with soles >40 mm or multiple plates