James Fell

I’m a freelance writer working on a feature for Runners World US on the psychological boost runners get from wearing “super shoes” (e.g. Adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 3, Nike Alphafly, etc.). The article will acknowledge the known physiological/performance gains, but the focus is on how wearing the same shoe as elite athletes affects confidence, perception of effort, and race mindset. I’m looking for: - Runners who have raced in a super shoe (ideally a recent model such as the Adios Pro Evo 3 or similar) and can describe any psychological benefits they noticed (e.g. feeling faster, more confident, lower perceived effort, “elite” mindset). - Any case studies, testimonials, or anecdotal data any manufacturer/brand teams have on product tests, athlete feedback, or community surveys about perceived performance or confidence in these shoes. - A sports psychologist who can speak to the placebo/expectation effect in footwear and performance. I'm juggling a fair few things currently and am mainly available to work evenings, so conducting interviews via email works best for me. Thanks!