Carbon-plate running shoes, increasingly popular amid South Korea's running boom, differ widely in shock absorption and knee fatigue, a government test found. All models tested scored well on propulsion, but ratings diverged on shock absorption and slip resistance.
The Korea Consumer Agency said on the 6th that it tested and evaluated seven carbon-plate running shoes from Nike, New Balance, Skechers, Adidas, Asics, Puma and Hoka. Nike's ZoomFly 6 and Puma's Deviate Nitro 4 performed relatively well on shock absorption. All seven models were rated strong on propulsion.
On knee fatigue, five models — New Balance, Skechers, Asics, Puma and Hoka — scored relatively well. Hoka rated highest on distributing pressure across the sole, while Nike scored well on keeping the body's center stable while running. Skechers and Asics were relatively strong on slip resistance.
For durability, four models — New Balance, Adidas, Asics and Hoka — showed relatively strong bonding strength. All models met the applicable standard for outsole wear, with Hoka wearing down the least at 2.4 millimeters.
Puma scored highest on wearer satisfaction. After 30 men in their 20s wore and ran in the shoes and rated them on fit and sizing, all seven models scored above 4.0 out of 5, with Puma's Deviate Nitro 4 ranking first at 4.6. Skechers' Aero Spark was the cheapest at 189,000 won, while Hoka's Skyward X was the most expensive at 279,000 won.
All seven models complied with safety standards for hazardous substances. However, three models — Adidas, Puma and Hoka — omitted lining labels or inaccurately listed blend ratios and materials, requiring improvement.
The agency said carbon-plate running shoes can help runners cut their times but may strain the ankles or calves of beginners. Because feet swell while running, it advised trying shoes on in the afternoon and choosing a pair with about 0.5 to 1 centimeter of room at the toes.
