However, different publications are also reporting different levels of severity for the ban: The Times of London expects the shoe the be outlawed while The Guardian suggests World Athletics’ focus may be on modifications to the shoes.
While the current version available to the public - the Vaporfly Next% - would still be acceptable, the yet to be released pair that Eliud Kipchoge wore during his record-breaking marathon run would not. According to the Guardian, a decision is expected by the end of the month.
The science behind the shoe is simple: Nike found that the Vaporfly 4% used four per cent less energy during runs because they used a carbon-fibre plate packed in foam. Every time a runner hit the pavement, the material used captured more energy and helped spring the runner into their next stride.
In 2010, the full body swimsuit was banned for professional swimmers after FINA, the world governing body of swimming, found the gear to reduce fatigue while increasing buoyancy and speed. Over 40 records were broken in the 2008 summer world championship in Rome.
