Carbon fiber running shoes have recently gained massive popularity among runners due to their lightweight and energy-saving features. I loved running in my Nike Vaporfly 4% in 2019 and qualifying for Boston in them. However, studies show that these shoes may come with certain risks.

According to a recent study by Hebert-Losier, an expert in the field, people who have run in carbon shoes have reported feeling unstable, particularly when turning corners. In addition, these shoes come with a higher heel which may cause instability, making the runners feel at risk of twisting their ankles.

I can attest to this instability on corners; I thought it silly to see runners at Tracksmith’s Twilight 5000 track series this year wearing super shoes when half of the race we are turning. Any advantage you might get on the straightways is lost on the corners, plus you are just asking for an injury.