Even though we expect that softer shoes are more effective in cushioning impacts when we walk, this was not the case in one of our studies. A comparison of responses from two types of combat boots designed with different midsole materials illustrates that harder soles can lead to less impact. This should be read in light of the neuromuscular system responding to further cushion impacts when we land. Therefore, we should not always expect that the shoe will be a game changer in reducing impacts because that is ultimately the role of the musculoskeletal system.