Blog - Running Shoe Science & Guides | StrideMatch

Minimalist Running Shoes: What Science Actually Says

Minimalist shoes promise a return to natural movement, stronger feet, and fewer injuries. But what does the science actually say? A biomechanical review of the evidence — and who really stands to benefit.

6 min min readMarch 5, 2026

Prevention & Injuries

Running shoes, often blamed for injuries: myth or reality?

Many runners point to their shoes as the cause of pain or recurring injuries. Yet, the truth is more nuanced: shoes can play a role, but rarely as the only determining factor.

2 min min readNovember 3, 2025

Performance

What is the best running shoe? (Spoiler: it doesn't exist)

It's the question every runner asks: what is the best running shoe for me? Brands, blogs, and athletes often claim to have the ultimate model. But reality is more complex: there is no single perfect, universal shoe.

2 min min readOctober 27, 2025

Buying Guide

Understanding pronation and supination to choose the right cushioning

In the running world, pronation and supination are often seen as flaws to fix. Many also believe cushioning is the universal key to protect your joints. Reality is more nuanced: understanding your footstrike and gait is the only reliable base to choose the cushioning that works for you.

2 min min readOctober 20, 2025

Technology

Carbon plate shoes: for which runners and what real gains?

Carbon plate shoes have become a tech benchmark in the running world. Promises: performance boost, better running economy, reduced muscle fatigue. But do these promises apply to everyone? And more importantly: how can you know if you will benefit?

2 min min readOctober 13, 2025

Biomechanics

The right drop for your running shoes: what science says

In the world of running, drop (the height difference between heel and forefoot) has become a hot topic. Zero drop, low drop, high drop... Every runner has an opinion and every brand a marketing pitch. But what does science really say?

2 min min readOctober 9, 2025

Prevention & Injuries

Ground or Aerial: Discover Your Motor Preference and Boost Your Running Performance

Most runners hear about cadence, midfoot strike or minimalist shoes. But the real lever for performance and injury prevention often lies elsewhere: your motor preference. Understanding whether you are a ground or aerial runner can transform your training and shoe choices.

2 min min readOctober 2, 2025

Prevention & Injuries

Could Your Knee Pain Actually Be Coming From Your Shoes?

It's a silent but stubborn pain. You're running well, making progress, and suddenly a dull ache in the front of your knee. The knee is by far the most injured joint in runners, but it's often a symptom, not the source.

3 min min readSeptember 3, 2025

General

Too Much Cushion Kills Your Stride? The Paradox of Ultra-Cushioned Running Shoes

Ultra-cushioned shoes have taken over the running market and the minds of runners. Popularized by maximalist models (Hoka, Asics Nimbus, On Cloudmonster), they promise joint protection and softer landings. But what happens when we look at these shoes through a biomechanical lens?

3 min min readAugust 28, 2025

StrideMatch Newsletter

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10K Pace for 1 Hour: Splits and Training Plan

Minimalist Running Shoes: What Science Actually Says

Running shoes, often blamed for injuries: myth or reality?

What is the best running shoe? (Spoiler: it doesn't exist)

Understanding pronation and supination to choose the right cushioning

Carbon plate shoes: for which runners and what real gains?

The right drop for your running shoes: what science says

Ground or Aerial: Discover Your Motor Preference and Boost Your Running Performance

Could Your Knee Pain Actually Be Coming From Your Shoes?

Too Much Cushion Kills Your Stride? The Paradox of Ultra-Cushioned Running Shoes

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