The Kiprun KD900X LD marks an important milestone in the history and evolution of Decathlons KIPRUN line of running shoes. They are the direct sequel to the revolutionary KD900X, the brand's first shoes to incorporate a carbon plate. This new version inherits and perfects the qualities admired by experienced runners, redefining what lightness, dynamism and cushioning mean in long-distance races.
With a cutting-edge design and a featherweight of just 207 grams, the Kiprun KD900X LD running shoes present themselves as the quintessence of innovation and performance. More than just a shoe, they represent the commitment of KIPRUN' s high-performance line to offer runners the ultimate tool to challenge their own limits and conquer new goals.
What is most striking about the new Kiprun KD900X LD?
Their development, completed in a record time of 8 months - much less than the average development time of 12 to 18 months for shoes in this category - is a direct testimony to the dedication and agility with which this new model has been developed.
In this sense, the story of these KD900X LD carbon platerunning shoes is closely linked to the figure of Yoann Kowal, distinguished athlete and first member of the KIPRUN team since January 2022. After recording a stratospheric time of 1 hour and 2 minutes in the Lille half marathon in the KD900X, Kowal expressed the need for an even more adapted shoe to successfully meet the challenge of running long distances. His participation in the prestigious London Marathon in October served as the perfect stage for the debut of the "KD900 X YOKO", which would later evolve into the Kiprun KD900X LD, which is now on sale.
This rapid development has been possible thanks to the close collaboration with Kowal and Kiprun athlete Méline Rollin, who have not only put aside their experience and knowledge, but have also become co-creators of what promises to be a before and after in the running universe. These intense eight months of continuous improvement and refinement have resulted in a running shoe that not only surpasses its predecessor in terms of performance, but also sets a new standard for runners seeking the ultimate in speed, comfort and energy efficiency.
What are the technological advantages of the KIPRUN KD900X LD?
The conception and development of the Kiprun KD900X LD is based on six crucial criteria that define running efficiency and performance:
- shoe weight.
- Cushioning level.
- Degree of resistance.
- Flexural rigidity.
- Sole geometry.
- Grip and adherence.
Each of these variables has been meticulously studied and improved to meet these "maximum performance" thresholds, ensuring that as a runner you can reach your optimal potential.
Kiprun KD900X LD vs Kiprun KD900X LD
It is also important to underline that a pioneering study conducted by the University of Franche-Comté has highlighted the superiority of the KD900X LD over its predecessor, the Kipurun KD900X, highlighting a 1.5 increase in running efficiency. Translated to asphalt, this represents a significant 1.2 improvement in marathon time, or in other words, a reduction of 2 minutes and 4 seconds on a marathon time of 2:53:35. This breakthrough is not only a victoria in terms of speed, but a revolution in how we understand and measure the impact of this running shoe on the performance of the fastest runner.
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Go to the Shoe FinderThe lightweight design and advanced engineering of the KD900X LD is palpable from the moment you first put it on. The wide-open knitted mesh not only ensures superior ventilation and a higher degree of flexibility, but also reduces the overall weight of the shoe as a whole, allowing us as runners to run with unparalleled freedom and speed.
This refinement mission was not only focused on surpassing previous standards but also on redefining what a running shoe can offer. The ambition was to create a shoe capable of significantly improving running efficiency, allowing athletes to run faster for the same effort or maintain a steady pace for longer periods of time.
Kiprun KD900X LD, its most important new features
The comparison between the KIPRUN KD900X LD and its predecessor, the Kiprun KD900X, highlights a significant evolution in the design and technology of this iconic model. The most obvious transformation is the weight; the KD900X LD have achieved a 10% lighter weight, making a noticeable difference in lightness and agility. This weight adjustment is complemented by strategic changes in the structure of the shoe: the forefoot is thicker for better shock absorption, while the drop has been halved from 8 mm to 4 mm to offer a more natural and efficient running posture. The outsole, meanwhile, features a smoother texture that enhances the running experience, and the heel design has been reshaped to be more symmetrical and ensure a more adaptive fit.
However, it is the introduction of the new "VFOAM PLUS" foam that really sets the KD900X LD apart from their predecessors. Developed by the KIPRUN teams, this innovative formula has been specifically adapted for the demands of long distances, balancing energy return and rebound with a superior level of cushioning. This improvement not only benefits the runner's performance, but also enhances comfort over long distances , making the KD900X LD an outstanding evolution of an already respected icon in the running world.
This commitment to high performance is complemented by a complete overhaul of the shoe' s finishing touches compared to the KD900X model. In this new version, the symbiosis between the upper and the foot is so fluid that it eliminates any friction, allowing for a perfect fit and unmatched comfort throughout the entire run.
Kiprun KD900X LD runner typology
From RUNNEA we do not hesitate to make the following recommendation regarding this new release of the Kiprun KD900X LD. A model that not everyone can wear. Rather, it is aimed at runners who see every training session and every competition as an opportunity to push their limits.
If your next sporting challenges include marathons, half marathons or simply improving your endurance and speed over long distances, these flying shoes from Kiprun are made with you in mind. They are designed for the runner with a long stride, a refined running technique and the ability to run at consistently high paces, even with record-breaking goals in mind.
Three compelling reasons to choose the Kiprun KD900X LD
With all that said about these new KD900X LD from Kiprun, at RUNNEA we make it easy for you, and these are the three arguments in favor of getting this new running shoe for fast running from Decathlon:
Innovation focused on performance.
The combination of the carbon plate with the new "VFOAM PLUS" foam redefines what you expect from cushioning and energy return, setting a new standard for efficiency.
Lightweight and comfort reinvented
By reducing their weight and adjusting the design for a better foot fit, these shoes promise an unparalleled running experience, allowing you to go faster and log more miles without sacrificing comfort.
Designed with the athlete in mind
Not only are they technologically enhanced, they have been developed with the active participation of elite athletes, ensuring that they meet the real needs of experienced runners.
To close this detailed review of the KIPRUN KD900X LD without reaffirming its position as a milestone in Decathlon 's performance line would be to omit its deeper meaning. Whether you're looking to break your personal record, take on bigger challenges or simply enjoy the feeling of speed and comfort, these shoes are ready to take you to the next level. With the Kipurn KD900X LD on your feet, you equip yourself not only with premium technology and the latest of the latest from a brand like Decathlon, but also with the perfect ally to achieve excellence in your next workout and/or competition.
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