New Balance Women's FuelCell Supercomp Elite v5 Road Running Shoes

Carbon plates have well-researched benefits and a seemingly endless list of race wins and world records.

They create the firmer feel that fast racers are looking for and help to guide the foot through your stride, providing a touch of extra support. They can also help create a rocker feel, with the stiffness allowing the shoe to pivot – as the toe goes down, the heel must come up, easing you into your next stride.

Although stiff, they do flex, providing an energised pop of forward momentum as the plate fights to retain its shape.

Each brand, and almost every shoe, uses a plate differently. Different shapes, thicknesses, and designs are used to prioritise a different aspect of performance. Some aim exclusively to guide the stride, while others focus solely on propulsion.

Featuring extra-deep stacks of midsole foam, extra-cushioned shoes offer improved impact absorption, comfort, and even performance. With modern foams providing energy return through your stride, the more foam under your foot, the bigger the spring forward. The trade-off of extra foam is additional weight and reduced ground feel. It can also be expensive to create and stabilise so much foam.

Neutral running shoes are designed to provide a smooth sensation without correcting your gait. They allow your natural motion to flow, while still offering a snug fit and a cushioned feel underfoot. As such, they’re ideal for runners who don’t overpronate.

Founded in Boston, USA, in 1906 as a maker of arch supports, New Balance are now one of the most recognisable brands around, straddling both the fashion and running worlds.

Their top-end runners can be split into two groups. Shoes that use Fresh Foam, such as the 1080, prioritise comfort, giving a plush and soft ride, while the explosive FuelCell range offer a little more rebound, helping you make the most of every step for improved times.