Insoles = slower?

[chris7011]

Just a quick question, I wear insoles in boots and trainers and they seem to do a good job of reducing impact damage from running.

However, it seems reasonable to assume that the extra cushioning dissipates energy that could be used to propel you forward faster.

Is this the case? Would it be worth removing insoles when you are racing or on a time trial?

[jimbob]

when i did my 1.5 mile run on the treadmill without my proper training shoes my shins were killing me afterwards and i believe thats what strted my shin splints, for some reason i seem to be more flat footed on a treadmill than i do on ground, i would just stick to what you wear just now

[Greg The Great]

I remember the first time I ran with Sorbathane insoles, it was noticeably harder going.

I agree with the above posts though, I don't think removing them would make a vast amount of difference once you're used to them.

Greg.

[lewis]

In my experince insoles such as superfeet, and 'proper' prescribed insoles, are more about placing the foot in its optimum position, rather than providing more cushioning. This prevents injury and I popable doesn't impede performance. Shock absorbing probably do waste energy on the otherhand.