Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about using Cadence to compare and research running shoes.
Is Cadence free to use?
Yes! Cadence is completely free to use. You can browse our entire shoe database, compare up to 4 shoes side by side, read detailed specs, and use all our filtering tools at no cost.
Do I need an account to use Cadence?
No account is required to browse shoes, use filters, or compare shoes. Creating a free account gives you additional features like saving comparisons and accessing your history.
How many shoes are in the Cadence database?
Cadence includes a growing collection of current and archived running shoes across major brands and categories. The total changes as models are added or archived.
How often is the database updated?
Cadence is updated as new models are released, specifications change, or errors are identified. There is no guaranteed weekly publishing schedule.
What brands are included in Cadence?
We cover all major running shoe brands including Nike, Adidas, HOKA, Brooks, Asics, New Balance, Mizuno, Saucony, On Running, Puma, and many more.
How do I compare shoes on Cadence?
Navigate to any shoe and click Compare, or go directly to the Compare page. You can select up to 4 shoes and view their specs side by side including stack height, heel drop, weight, cushion type, and more.
What does heel drop mean?
Heel-to-toe drop is the difference between the measured heel and forefoot stack heights. It can affect how a shoe loads the lower leg and how its geometry feels, but it does not by itself determine whether a runner lands on the heel, midfoot, or forefoot. Runners adapting to a substantially different drop may benefit from transitioning gradually.
What is stack height?
Stack height is the amount of material between the foot and the ground, usually reported separately at the heel and forefoot. Higher stack does not automatically mean softer or better-cushioned because foam composition, geometry, width, and firmness also influence how the shoe feels.
What is the difference between neutral and stability shoes?
Neutral shoes generally do not include pronounced support elements intended to guide motion. Stability shoes may use geometry, sidewalls, firmer foam, guide rails, or other design features to create a more supported ride. Arch height alone does not determine which category a runner should use, and comfort and individual preference remain important.
What are super shoes?
Super shoes are lightweight performance shoes that typically combine highly responsive foam with a stiffening element such as a carbon-fiber plate or rods. The label is informal, and designs vary by brand and intended race distance.
Does Cadence sell shoes?
No. Cadence is a research, comparison, and editorial platform. Purchases take place on external manufacturer or retailer websites. A displayed price may be a manufacturer-suggested or recently observed price and should be confirmed before purchase.
How accurate is the data?
Cadence uses manufacturer information, established retailer listings, and other sources described in the Shoe Data Methodology. Specifications can differ between sources, sizes, regions, measurement methods, and production versions. Verification dates and sources may be displayed on individual pages as records are reviewed.
Can I suggest a shoe to add to the database?
Absolutely! If you notice a shoe is missing from our database, please reach out to us at info.runcadence@gmail.com and we will do our best to add it in our next update.
What does archived mean?
Archived shoes are older database records retained for reference and comparison. A model may be archived because it was replaced, is no longer a current release, or is no longer widely available. Archived status does not by itself confirm that all retailers have stopped selling it.
Is Cadence available as a mobile app?
Currently Cadence is a web-based platform that works on all devices including phones, tablets, and desktops. Our website is fully mobile-responsive for a great experience on any screen size.
Still have questions?
We are happy to help! Reach out to us directly.
info.runcadence@gmail.com