Impact Attenuation in Running Shoes

Designed and executed a hands-on experiment to measure midsole impact attenuation in three running shoes. Built an Arduino-based setup with a piezo sensor and load cell, dropping a controlled mass from a fixed height to quantify force transmitted through the midsole. Compared performance across HOKA Clifton 10 (EVA), adidas Adizero EVO SL (TPU), and Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 (PEBA/TPE). Emphasized iterative problem-solving, calibration, and troubleshooting to collect meaningful data.

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Quenton Walion

Project Timeline

Nov 2025 - Dec-2025

HighlightS

Built a custom Arduino-based test rig with sensors to measure shoe midsole impact attenuation.
Calibrated piezo and load cell sensors to capture top- and bottom-shoe impact forces.
Collected and analyzed data showing Mizuno attenuated the most force, adidas the least, HOKA in between.
Iteratively redesigned the setup to improve data consistency, reinforcing real-world experimental problem-solving skills.
Applied mechanical engineering principles to a real-world footwear problem, combining biomechanics, materials, and testing.

SKILLS

Arduino

Data Acquisition

Sensor Calibration

MATLAB / Data Analysis

Mechanical Testing

Troubleshooting

Team & Collaboration:

Led a group of five peers, pitched the project idea, coordinated experiment setup, and delegated tasks for sensor calibration, data collection, and analysis.

Experiment Challenges:

Dealt with sensor noise, inconsistent drops, and rig redesigns; improved reliability through iterative testing and troubleshooting.

Materials & Shoes Tested:

Compared three midsoles with distinct material properties: HOKA Clifton 10 (EVA), adidas Adizero EVO SL (TPU), Mizuno Wave Rebellion Pro 2 (PEBA/TPE).

Data Analysis:

Processed raw sensor data in MATLAB to quantify peak impact forces and calculate attenuation ratios.

Learning Outcomes:

Gained hands-on experience in experimental design, real-world data collection, and translating engineering theory into practice.

Future Applications:

Reinforced interest in footwear R&D, biomechanics, and material optimization for performance products.

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