Carbon-plated running shoes are of course the elite when it comes to racing. But they also come with a price tag, and are really not designed to be worn during training, leaving them chilling in the cupboard while you cover your mileage in your favourite pair of running shoes.

Enter the Superfeet Run Pacer Elite insole. The theory is that this clever bit of tech slides into your everyday pair of running shoes to turn them into a supershoe. But does it actually work, and is it worth the hefty price tag for an insole? We put it to the test…

Superfeet Run Pacer Elite insole technical details

RRP: £85
Sizes: UK 4-5.5, UK 6-7.5, UK 8-9.5, UK 10-11.5
Plate: Carbitex® carbon fibre
Foam: SuperRev™

Who and what is the Superfeet Run Pacer Elite insole for?

We would say that this insole would suit any runner who is looking to speed up for a specific race or event, but not quite ready to invest in a separate pair of carbon plate trainers yet. It’s designed to replace the standard sole in your everyday pair of trainers (Superfeet recommend a trainer with a moderate to roomy fit) to give you extra energy return and power.

How did it fit?

Tester Esther tried them in a pair of Asics Gel-Nimbus 26, just to see what they’d do to a pair of super-cushioned trainers. They caused some lacing issues to begin with, as they pushed her feet higher in the shoe, but she soon sorted that.

Superfeet Run Pacer Elite run review

“£85 for a pair of insoles? Yes, I know – but these are no ordinary running soles. I could feel a slight difference on the run – the carbon makes the shoes noticeably more stiff, and there is a touch of propulsiveness, which I enjoyed. Did they make me faster? Nothing’s going to do that aside from hanging a vinho verde in front of my face, if I’m honest. But did they make me run easier? Yes, I’m going to say there’s definite energy return.”

Should you buy them?

“Is it worth spending £140+ on shoes, and another £85 on these? That’s at least the price of a pair of carbon shoes in any case. But if you want to be able to adapt running shoes you love, these are a great idea. Equally, if you haven’t got the budget (or space!) for a full running shoe rotation, these are a good option.”