Slashdot linked up this NY Times article summarizing the latest in footwear technology... electronic sneakers. Adidas has embedded microchips, motors, and a battery supply into its latest running shoe. The idea is for the computer to subtly alter the characteristics of the sole in response to running conditions.
I seem to recall a few years ago they did a study on which shoe was the most efficient for running. No surprise bare feet beat them all by a wide margin.