An evidence-based educational video does not influence running shoe selection: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Runners may select shoes based on marketing recommendations rather than scientific evidence. It remains unknown if education on the latest research can influence subjective appreciation of footwear and selection. Our aims were to identify how an evidence-based educational video influences how runners select shoes, and perceive shoe comfort, satisfaction, and performance over three months compared with a control video. Fifty-six uninjured runners looking for a new pair of running shoes completed this randomised controlled trial. Prior to purchasing new shoes for road running in speciality stores, runners were assigned to watch an educational video on (1) the latest research about the association between running shoes and injuries (intervention) or (2) the evolution of running demographics (control). Runners completed surveys about their newly purchased shoes in reference to their previous shoes at three time points: before first use, one-month post-purchase, and three-months post-purchase. Perceived shoe comfort, satisfaction, and performance were assessed using 100 mm visual analogue scales. Comfort and satisfaction were not significantly different between groups at any time points. The average perceived performance of new shoes (75.6 mm) was significantly greater than previous shoes (67.6 mm) before first use, but ratings returned to previous-shoe levels one month later in both groups. The intervention group reported the educational video influencing their purchase (55.4 mm) more so than the control group (21.8 mm). However, participants from both groups chose the same brand and model as previously worn over half of the time. The evidence-based educational video did not appear to influence overall perceived shoe comfort, satisfaction, or performance or shoe selection habits. Runners in both groups often chose similar shoes to the ones they previously used.