Abstract
In running of artificial tracks, the optimum cushioning characteristics of running shoes depend on the hardness of track materials. In this study, the cushioning characteristics of running shoes were investigated by conducting mechanical tests and by analyzing runners' sensory evaluations of shoes used on artificial tracks. These tests and evaluations provide information on how the optimum sole cushioning of running shoes was affected by the hardness of artificial tracks and how the mechanical properties correlated with the sensory evaluations of distance runners. Drop weight impact tests were carried out on 4 types of running shoe soles which had 4 different hardness of EVA, and with 4 types of artificial tracks which had 4 different materials and constructions. Running shoes and artificial tracks were evaluated by 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, evaluations of shoes were carried out by 4 distance runners who wore 4 different shoes on 4 different stadiums. Shoes' evaluations were based on whole evaluation, cushioning, and stability. Data acquisitions of sensory evaluations and after processing were conducted based on Scheffe's method. The results of this study are as follows; (1) Scheffe's method is effective for assessing runners' sensory evaluations of shoes, (2) Runners' sensory evaluations seem to be based on shoe sole hardness, that is, average Young's modulus, (3) In the case of running on a hard surface, runners' favorite average Young's modulus is about 70kN/m shoe sole, and (4) In the case of deformable surfaces, runners' favorite shoe sole hardness varies slightly from 70kN/m, depending on the materials and the constructions of artificial tracks.
