World Athletics has amended Rule 5 in relation to shoes worn in competition.

From 30 April 2020, any shoe must have been available for purchase by any athlete on the open retail market (online or in store) for a period of four months before it can be used in competition.

If a shoe is not openly available to all then it will be deemed a prototype and use of it in competition will not be permitted. Subject to compliance with the rules, any shoe that is available to all, but is customised for aesthetic reasons, or for medical reasons to suit the characteristics of a particular athlete’s foot, will be allowed.

As a result of the rule change, Athletics Australia requires all athletes competing in the Open and Under 20 age divisions (including Para) to submit a Shoe Declaration prior to their first National competition for 2021. Once you have declared your shoes, the delcaration will be used for the remainder of the season. Any amendments to your Shoe Declaration can be made by submiting it online or in person at the TIC Area no later than 90 minutes prior to the start time of your event.

Please CLICK HERE for the current list of shoes deemed approved by World Athletics (listed under Manuals & Guidelines)

Please note that World Athletics continually amend the Approved Shoe List as they complete their testing of shoes, therefore athletes should ensure they check this list on a regular basis.