This study aims to report the first Latvian version of the RESTQ-76, focusing on its internal validity, reliability, structural validity, and the relationships between the factors of the questionnaire. A total of 394 athletes (225 men and 169 women), aged 18–30 years (average age = 21, SD = 1.65), participated in the study. They were recruited from various sports clubs and universities. The RESTQ-76 was translated into Latvian through a forward-backward translation process to ensure accuracy of cultural relevance. To examine the questionnaire’s structure, principal component analysis (PCA) was performed. This analysis revealed a stable four-factor model comprising 18 scales, with acceptable fit indices (RMSEA = 0.089, CFI = 0.914, TLI = 0.896, NFI = 0.889), indicating good model fit. The psychometric validity of the Latvian version is supported by the original, indicating it is appropriate for use in sports settings throughout Latvia. As research on training load and recovery continues to expand, tools like the RESTQ-76 are becoming increasingly important. They help athletes and coaches monitor recovery and stress levels, which is essential for optimizing performance and preventing overtraining in competitive sports.

Since the introduction of advanced footwear technology (AFT) in 2017, numerous world records from 5 km to the marathon have been broken. Among these innovations, carbon-plated shoes have received particular attention. Previous research indicates improvements of 2–4% in running economy (RE), which translates into an approximate 1–2% improvement in running performance when running in these shoes. The rapid progression of performance has generated significant scientific interest; however, a clear understanding of the mechanisms driving the effectiveness of AFT remains limited. Despite widespread adoption and remarkable results, the mechanisms underlying the effectiveness of AFT are still not fully understood, which is why optimising its potential benefits continues to be an ongoing challenge. This review summarises current knowledge on AFT and critically evaluates the biomechanical and physiological mechanisms underlying their effects on RE and performance. It also highlights the interaction between shoe design features and individual biomechanics, supporting evidence-based approaches to footwear selection and training strategies tailored to athletes’ needs. A clearer understanding of these mechanisms may provide valuable insights for researchers, coaches, and athletes and help maximise the potential benefits of AFT.

Since the introduction of Advanced Footwear Technology (AFT) in 2017, numerous world records from 5 km to the marathon have been broken. Among these innovations, carbon-plated shoes have received particular attention. Studies report improvements of up to 4% in running economy (RE) and approximately 2% in performance. The rapid progression of performances has generated significant scientific interest; however, a clear understanding of the mechanisms driving the effectiveness of AFT remains limited. Despite widespread adoption and notable outcomes, neither researchers nor manufacturers can fully explain why design features such as increased stack height, embedded carbon fibre plates, and enhanced longitudinal bending stiffness are so effective, making optimisation of their benefits an ongoing challenge. This review summarises current knowledge on AFT and critically evaluates the biomechanical and physiological mechanisms underlying their effects on RE and performance. It also highlights the interaction between shoe design features and individual biomechanics, supporting evidence-based approaches to footwear selection and training strategies tailored to athletes’ needs. A clearer understanding of these mechanisms may provide valuable insights for researchers, coaches, and athletes, and help maximise the potential benefits of AFT.