Indeed, one of the biggest engineering challenges facing the shuttle designers was aero compression heating on the structures. However, they did benefit from
related work done on the X-15 program.
Even SpaceX has wisely adopted technology developed by their competitors. They are using a material (Al-Li alloy) and construction method (friction stir welding) developed for the Delta IV common booster core, to reduce cost and improve reliability on their Falcon 9 vehicle.
Lastly, it was nice to see Blue Origin successfully land their booster a second time. They have had no problems with their landing gear, so maybe the mechanical systems engineering group at SpaceX could ask them for advice.
