Yes, it counts. wrote:
Sheesh, what shoes was Jesse Owens running in 80+ years ago versus any shoes available today? Shoe technology has advanced. In other sports, advances in equipment technology are considered normal and taken for granted.
As a former competitive cyclist (Cat. 3), I remember full well being keenly interested (along with all other competitive cyclists) in equipment advances that could reduce weight, improve aerodynamics, or increase energy return. (Short of bolting an actual motor onto the bike, anything went...) Why should runners oppose advances in shoes?
... he said what planet was this on?
https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/cycling-no-daylight-for-obree-as-riding-position-falls-foul-of-rules-cyclings-world-pursuit-champion-1376851.html