The Weekly Breakdown: Shoe Foam Explained, A Weekend Of Records, and More

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Welcome to your weekly endurance briefing, courtesy of the Marathon Journal. Each Monday, we deliver essential updates and expert insights to keep you informed on the latest in running and competitive sports.1. Shoe of the Week: The Skechers Aero Tempo

1. Shoe of the Week: The Skechers Aero Tempo

The Skechers Aero Tempo is an engineered performance trainer designed to bridge the gap between high-volume mileage and competitive racing. This model features a specialized 4mm drop geometry with a 37mm heel stack, integrated with Hyper Arc rocker technology to optimize midfoot strike efficiency and mechanical toe-off. Weighing only 7.6 oz, it utilizes advanced weight management to provide an elite, carbon-tech feel for tempo and threshold sessions without the typical "super shoe" price point. Read the full technical breakdown at Marathon Journal

2. Understanding Running Shoe Foam

Running shoe foams serve distinct functions: EVA provides stable, predictable cushioning for daily training; TPU improves durability and maintains responsiveness over higher mileage; PEBA delivers lightweight energy return for faster running and workouts; and advanced elastomers offer maximal rebound under greater loads. Knowing how each foam behaves helps runners choose shoes that align with training volume, pace, and performance demands. Read the full article here.

3. The Weekend the Record Books Melted: Valencia and Tallahassee Deliver Distance Running History

The 2026 distance running season opened with historic depth and record-shattering performances. In Valencia, Andreas Almgren dismantled his own European 10K record with a 26:45 finish, while Eilish McColgan reclaimed the women’s European mark in 30:08. Simultaneously, at the World Cross Country Championships in Tallahassee, Jacob Kiplimo secured his third consecutive title in 28:18, joining the elite ranks of triple champions. Agnes Jebet Ngetich dominated the women’s field by 42 seconds, clocking 31:28. These results signal a new era of global endurance standards. Read the full article here.

4. Detroit Sells Out in Record-Breaking Time

The 2026 Detroit Free Press Marathon and International Half Marathon achieved a record-breaking sellout in just six days, signaling an unprecedented shift in endurance event demand. This rapid registration cycle highlights the rising prioritization of unique, cross-border courses and high-profile competitive environments. Analyzing this sellout offers critical insights into current industry growth and the narrowing window for major-city race entry. Discover how shifting participant trends are redefining the North American marathon landscape. Read the full article here.

For more deep-dives and the latest in global running news, join the community at MarathonJournal.com.