Athletics: Shoe Rule Changes Unnoticed by Finnish Athletes

Finnish athletes in throwing disciplines are competing at the European Championships without full knowledge of updated equipment regulations. Specifically, shot putter Emilia Kangas opted to leave her modified shoes at home due to uncertainty about their legality.

Kangas, who has been training well and showing potential for a Finnish record, expressed hesitation about using her custom Adidas shoes. She had heard that the rules for throwing events had changed in the spring but was unsure of the specifics. It was only during an interview that she learned modified shoes should not pose a problem under the new regulations.

The rule change, driven by events at last year's World Championships, primarily affects shot put, hammer throw, and discus throw. Previously, the same shoe restrictions applied as in running and jumping events. However, the lengthy men's discus final in challenging weather conditions highlighted the need for revised rules.

Huippu-urheilujohtaja Tuomo Salonen explained that the old rules prevented many athletes from wearing even regular sneakers in slippery conditions. The new regulations, designed mainly for running and jumping, now allow more flexibility for throwing events. While Kangas and other athletes like Silja Kosonen and Krista Tervo were not overly concerned, Kangas has acquired Nike shoes as a precaution for wet weather, though the forecast for Birmingham is warm.