{
  "id": 4187698,
  "title": "Why some sneakers bounce and others feel flat: foam and drop",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/29/why-some-sneakers-bounce-and-others-feel-flat-foam-and-drop",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-29T12:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/best-buys/why-some-sneakers-bounce-and-others-feel-flat-foam-and-drop-1.500653134"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Modern running shoes often exhibit varying levels of bounce, even when their midsoles appear similar. This difference stems from the combination of foam properties and the shoe's heel-to-toe drop. While some shoes prioritize a bouncy feel, others focus on providing a soft, cushioned experience. Understanding the role of foam and drop in shoe performance can help consumers make informed choices. Midsole foam, which sits between the foot and the outsole, deforms and rebounds to return energy during a run. The amount of energy returned depends on factors such as material, thickness, and construction. However, simply adding more cushioning does not guarantee improved bounce. Another key factor is the shoe's heel-to-toe drop, which is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot. A higher drop places more strain on the calf muscles, while a lower drop promotes a more natural running motion. For everyday use, a shoe with ample cushioning and a comfortable drop may be preferred over a rigid, high-performance model. Conversely, runners seeking a livelier sensation may opt for a shoe with a smaller drop and responsive foam technology. Ultimately, the ideal shoe depends on an individual's running style, comfort preferences, and specific needs.",
  "summary": "A carbon plate gets much of the attention in modern running shoes, but it cannot explain the ride by itself. A 2025 systematic review and meta analysis found that the performance effect of advanced running footwear appears to come from an interaction between bending stiffness and midsole energy return, rather than either property working alone. That helps explain why one thick shoe can feel…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}