The most common question about racing flats is “Why should I wear them?” Many people assume that only the so-called “elite” runners wear racing flats and that they are not for the average, mid-pack runner. The fact is that lightweight shoes can be useful to all levels of runners.
What is a racing flat?
Quite simply, it is a shoe that weighs much less than the average running shoe and will give you less support and cushioning. A racing flat tends to weigh anywhere from 3.5 to seven ounces while the average running shoe weighs anywhere from nine to eleven ounces or more. A 3.5-ounce shoe may not be the best racing flat for a half- or full marathon. For these events, you might want to choose a lightweight trainer, weighing closer to seven ounces. Conversely, a racing flat that weighs seven ounces may not be the best for the five- or ten-kilometre races.
How should a racing flat fit?
Typically the shoe should fit more snugly than a normal training shoe. An improper fitting shoe can cause serious blisters during a race, either from friction (too small) or excess foot movement within the shoe (too large). Try on the shoe after a run, when your feet are more swollen than normal. This will help ensure a proper fit. Do some practice runs in the shoe before you wear them in a race, not only to break them in but also to get your legs used to the longer, quicker turnover that racing flats promote. You may find your calves are more sore than normal after wearing racing flats in a workout or race due to a thinner midsole and a longer stretching of your Achilles tendon and calf muscles.
What are the advantages to wearing a racing flat?
The obvious advantage is the reduction in weight. This can lead directly to a better performance on race day. The lightweight shoe can help ease the turnover of the legs, which can be very beneficial at the end of a race. Racing flats may give you a mental advantage as well. Just the act of putting the shoes on helps you get into the racing mindset, and when the starting pistol fires, your feet will feel like they’re flying!
Try wearing racing flats in your next big race – if you’ve done all the necessary training, racing flats may just be that extra tool to get you a new personal best.
|
