Nike's Carbon-Infused Vaporfly Won't Be Banned by World Athletics
Going against , it looks like World Athletics won’t be banning controversial carbon-infused running shoes after all. Instead, the governing body will look to temporarily tighten regulations regarding footwear in the lead up to Tokyo 2020.
Facing potential legal challenge from Beaverton, it appears the review panel has backed down and chosen not to impose a blanket ban on the popular . However, newer modified models will be barred from elite competition in order to give athletes more transparency as we approach the Summer Games.
The proposed rules will restrict the thickness of soles, although there will also be an announcement of a longer-term biometric study of the technology being used in both distance and track running.
In the interim, manufacturers will be asked to submit any existing new prototypes to World Athletics for approval to be used in major competitions. Additionally, all set by athletes wearing Vaporflys will be allowed to stand.
All in all, it looks like another win for Team Swoosh.