A Finite Element Model to Predict Shear Deformation in Running Shoe Midsoles During the Foot Strike

The midsole component of running shoes are an important factor for performance and user perception. The shear deformation of the midsole has been linked to smoother running patterns and is an attribute of interest to running shoe brands to optimise. A finite element (FE) model of the ground contact phase when running was created and used to simulate the shear deformation in the heel area of three sole conditions. The model was validated against ground reaction forces and all three conditions were visually inspected against high-speed video images. The model predicted different magnitudes of shear across the heel region of each sole, as well as between the different soles. Consequently, the FE model was deemed a useful tool for optimising the shear deformation of midsoles and could be used as a virtual development tool, potentially leading to more optimal solutions and reduced reliance of physical prototyping.