Energy return in running shoes explained (2025)
The article discusses the concept of energy return in running shoes, which refers to how effectively the midsole foam rebounds after compression. It highlights the importance of energy return for improving running economy, while clarifying common misconceptions about its relationship with shock absorption. The piece also emphasizes that energy return varies significantly across different shoe types and designs.
- ▪Energy return in running shoes is how efficiently the midsole foam rebounds after being compressed during a step.
- ▪Better energy return can improve running economy, but factors like weight and stiffness also play a crucial role.
- ▪There is no strong correlation between energy return and shock absorption, as they depend on different design elements.
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Energy return in running shoes explained Posted on 21 June, 2025 by Carlos Sánchez The phrase “energy return” has only gained attention in the last decade as advanced materials like TPU, TPEE, PEBA, and A-TPU entered the scene. This guide covers every nuance about energy return based on our lab data (500+ shoes tested for energy return) and consultations with lots of experts on the topic. What is energy return and why it’s important in running shoes Energy return in running shoes refers to how efficiently the midsole foam rebounds after being compressed during a step. Instead of absorbing all impact as heat, a running shoe stores some energy and releases it as the foot lifts off.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at RunRepeat - Athletic shoe reviews.
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