The influence of midsole shear on running economy and smoothness with a 3D-printed midsole.

The objectives of this study were to first determine whether a newly designed 3D-printed midsole, configured with a mechanism to increase anterior-posterior deformation, could increase anterior midsole shear during the stance phase of running. We then wanted to determine whether these shoes could affect running economy and smoothness. Two footwear conditions, differing in midsole technology, were used in this study.

The impact of shod vs unshod walking on center of pressure variability.

Background: The variability of center of pressure (COP) is a measure of stability commonly examined during quiet standing. While more recent research has examined the variability of COP during walking, an adequate comparison between shod and unshod walking conditions has yet to be made.

Research Question: What is the influence of athletic footwear on the variability of COP displacement during walking?

Methods: In this intervention study, twenty healthy women (age 18-30 years) completed 2, 10-min walking trials, 1 shod and 1 unshod, during which ground reaction forces (GRF) and COP movement were collected by an instrumental treadmill.