Running shoe sole has an important role in absorbing the external impact forces that are transmitted from the running surface. In this study, the cushioning characteristics of running shoes were investigated by conducting mechanical tests and by analyzing distance runners' sensory evaluations. These tests and evaluations provide information on how mechanical properties on cushioning characteristics change in correlation with the change of sensory evaluations and how runners decide to stop using their shoes. Cushioning characteristics of shoe soles were measured by using the drop weight impact test system, which was made by considering the collision conditions between human heel and the running surface. This measurement was carried out at regular running distances. Running shoes were evaluated by rate of energy absorption and average Young's modulus, which were typical parameters given by the force and deformation relationships derived from mechanical tests. At the same time, sensory evaluations of shoes were made based on the method of paired comparison, which compares new shoes with used shoes. As a result, criteria on which runners decided to stop using their shoes were dependent not on running distance but on the deterioration of mechanical properties, that is average Young's modulus and maximum load. Average Young's modulus and maximum load were respectively about 1.4 and 1.25 times those of new shoes.

DESCENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.22/THE DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE