Shoes can make or break your HYROX or DEKA performance—and this episode dives deep into why. From the golden days of Eastbay catalogs to today’s carbon-plated super shoes, we unpack everything you need to know about grip, stability, and energy return. The crew debates everyday trainer options versus plated racers, shares which models shine (and which to avoid), and gives practical advice for athletes of all levels. Whether you’re eyeing the sled push in HYROX or the box jumps in DEKA, this episode breaks down the shoes that will keep you moving—and the ones that will send you sliding.

Perfect for hybrid athletes, runners, and anyone who’s ever asked: What’s the best shoe for race day?

• 00:06 – Shoe Obsession Origins: From Eastbay catalogs to cross-country spikes, how the love of running shoes started.

• 17:45 – HYROX vs. DEKA Shoes: Why surface and sled differences demand different footwear strategies.

• 29:20 – Grip is King: How outsole design—grooves, lugs, and rubber coverage—determines sled push success.

• 52:40 – Stability vs. Energy Return: Do carbon plates help or hurt when fatigue sets in during lunges and wall balls?

• 1:15:10 – Top Recommendations: Everyday trainers, super shoes, and the “everyman” picks for hybrid racing.