Speed and control in one intelligent system. The patented BowTech kinetic technology uses dual plates to store energy during impact and forefoot load, releasing it explosively at push -off, driving you forward while guiding every stride along a centered, controlled forward momentum.
Together with Supercritical N+Foam, Optaspeed delivers a new running experience. Explosive propulsion and guided stability, improving your running form, focusing your energy, and leveraging the natural mechanics of the foot. EVA in the heel cushions impact for lasting comfort.
CATEGORY
High-Performance
Training Shoe
SUPPORT
Neutral Stable
DROP
7mm
Forefoot 30mm
Heel 37mm
WEIGHT
290g
TERRAIN
Road
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is BowTech a plate?
The patented BowTech kinetic technology uses dual plates to store energy during impact and forefoot load, releasing it explosively at push-off, driving you forward while guiding every stride along a centered, controlled forward momentum.
What makes BowTech different?
Rather than restricting the forefoot, BowTech works with its natural load and release, leveraging the foot's own mechanics to deliver energy return while reducing the stress linked to common running injuries.
Why two plates instead of one?
The patented BowTech kinetic technology uses dual plates to store energy during impact and forefoot load, delivering explosive propulsion and guided stability from the same system.
By working with the foot’s natural load and release, BowTech leverages the foot’s own mechanics to deliver explosive energy return while guiding forces along a centered line of progression.
Who is this shoe for?
Runners who want speed and control in one system. CEP Optaspeed BowTech is designed for structured training sessions combining speed and form, including tempo runs, progression runs and longer steady efforts.
How does the midsole help?
Together with Supercritical N+Foam, Optaspeed delivers a new level of stability, one that actively improves your running form and focuses every unit of energy forward, while EVA in the heel cushions impact for lasting comfort.
What pace range is the shoe designed for?
From controlled tempo runs to long, steady efforts under fatigue, the Optaspeed BowTech supports structured training where pace and precision are vital. Its platform stays responsive giving you control as intensity shifts—keeping speed efficient and repeatable throughout the run. Performance support scales with speed as force input increases, amplifying propulsion while maintaining guided stability.
Is there a weight limit for the shoe?
No official weight limit exists. However, due to the soft cushioning foams and relatively narrow sole platform, the shoe may be less suitable for runners of higher weights. It’s best to try it out to see if it meets your individual needs.
What surface is the shoe designed for?
The CEP Optaspeed is designed primarily for road running. It can handle light gravel or forest paths, but it’s not intended for technical trails or off-road terrain.
Who is the target audience for this shoe?
The Optaspeed BowTech is designed for ambitious runners who want speed and control in one intelligent system.
It performs best in structured training sessions such as tempo runs, progression runs, interval sessions and longer steady efforts — where propulsion, alignment and repeatability need to work together.
(Sell-in B2B only)
It is especially suited for runners who:
- Train for distances between 10 km and marathon
- Are interested in insoles for optimized foot mechanics
- Prefer a shoe suitable for both training and racing
How long does the shoe last?
The durable TPEE and EVA foams retain less than 5% cushioning loss beyond 250km. The BowTech plate has been tested for durability beyond 1,000 km. The grippy rubber outsole with abrasion-resistant toe cap is road-ready, built to last 800km.
The durable TPEE and EVA foams retain less than 5% cushioning loss beyond 155 miles. The BowTech plate has been tested for durability beyond 625 miles. The grippy rubber outsole with abrasion-resistant toe cap is road-ready, built to last 500 miles.
Is it a racing shoe?
Optaspeed BowTech is a performance training shoe built on speed intelligence., as shown by its long durability. However, it can also be worn in races. (See: “Who is the target audience?” and “Does the model have race approval by World Athletics?”).
Is the CEP Optaspeed BowTech approved by World Athletics?
The CEP Optaspeed BowTech has not been submitted to World Athletics for approval. Although its heel height is within the allowed limits, its plate construction would likely prevent approval.
Can recreational runners wear the shoe in major city marathons?
From a World Athletics perspective, yes. Recreational runners who are not competing for official records, rankings, or prize money may wear the Optaspeed without restrictions. Event organizers, however, may set their own participation or equipment rules.
What running style is the shoe suitable for (forefoot or heel strike)?
The CEP Optaspeed BowTech is best for heel and midfoot runners, allowing BowTech and two-density midsole to perform optimally.
Does the shoe offer arch support?
Yes. BowTech engages the foot’s natural windlass mechanism, tightening the arch at toe-off and supporting a centered, controlled line of progression throughout the stride.
HELPFUL TIPS
Size & Fit
The CEP Optaspeed fits true to running shoe size. We recommend ordering a half size up from your everyday shoe size.
This shoe is best for heel and midfoot runners, enabling BowTech + dual‑density midsole to perform optimally.
Lacing for a Locked-In Fit
If you're noticing heel slippage, try the runner’s knot (also called marathon or race-lock lacing) to secure your heel without extra pressure:
- Lace normally until the second-to-last eyelet.
- Thread each lace up into the top eyelet on the same side, forming small loops.
- Cross the laces and tuck each end through the opposite loop.
- Pull snug, then tie as usual.
Care Instructions
- Hand-wash only
- Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent
- Do not machine wash
- Dry in the shade
