Opinions about running shoes in runners and non-runners

Nguyen, Anh Phong [UCL] Gillain, Loris Delieux, Louise [UCL] Detrembleur, Christine [UCL] Mahaudens, Philippe [UCL] Esculier, Jean Francois et al.

The objectives of this study were (1) to compare opinions of runners and non-runners about running footwear, and (2) to identify where runners seek information when selecting their shoes. Using an online survey, we collected data on demographics and opinions about running footwear in runners and in non-runners. Runners answered additional questions about their training, running experience, and sources of information. Questions about running shoes were the same for both groups. These addressed opinions about the influence of footwear on injuries, performance and biomechanics, as well as the opinion about appropriate footwear features for novice runners, children or overweight individuals. In total, 1601 responses (59% runners, 41% non-runners) were analyzed. With the exception of kids’ running shoes recommendations, runners and non-runners shared similar perceptions towards running shoes. In addition, runners mostly relied on running stores, sports stores, the internet, running clubs or magazines when seeking information about running shoes. Some opinions of runners may not be in line with the current literature. Given the similar perceptions in runners and non-runners, our findings suggest that runners’ knowledge is mostly influenced by popular beliefs rather than scientific evidence. Thus, runners might benefit from evidence-based education initiatives on footwear, although it remains unknown if this could benefit running performance or injury rates.