Have you ever been influenced to buy running shoes because of an advertisement? Well, that has happened to most of us at one time or another; buying into the hype. However, you must be aware that there is no one-size-fits-all shoe in the market simply because of the different shapes of feet and their biomechanics. So how would you know what type of running shoes are right for you?
Anatomy of Running Shoes
The design of a running shoe basically divides it into two main components; the shoe upper and the sole unit. The shoe upper is where you put your foot in including the laces. The sole unit is made up of the midsole and the outsole. These two components are made separately and glued together to finish the production process.
The shoe upper provides the fit, comfort, soundness, and performance while the sole unit delivers the cuhsioning, motion control, and stability especially in the midsole portion. In running, shock absorption plays a huge role in protecting your foot from injury and the midsole takes the brunt of this impact. This should give you an idea on how to choose your running shoes.
What Type of Runner are you?
One of the best ways to find the right type of running shoes is to know what type of runner you are. There are basically 3 types of runner:
- Overpronator – your foot usually rolls excessively inward making the arch collapse, counter to providing proper shock absorption. For this type of runner, motion control shoes are the best choice. These types of footwear deliver optimum medial support because of their dual density midsoles, foot bridges, and roll bars. The medial or inside support slows the overpronation rate.
- Neutral Pronator – these runners have feet that naturally roll inward as per the normal heel-to-toe motion of the foot. About 30% of runners belong to this group and just require a mild support, or neutral shoe. This type of running shoe delivers a mild degree of support and cushioning.
- Supinator – runners in this category lack the necessary shock absorption because their feet do not roll inward enough with every step. This is why cushioned, neutral shoes are their best choice because they enhance the shock dispersion in the midsole and outsole. The result is better shock absorption through the addition of materials to the forefoot and heel areas of the shoe.
The difference among these types of running shoes can be found mostly in the midsole.
Shoe Design Feature
Choosing the right running shoes for you can also be based on the focus of its design. Shoe designs would normally focus on the following:
- Stability – runners with low to normal arches benefit from this type of shoe design because of the more than adequate support combined with midsole cushioning.These types of shoes have good motion control and are significantly light despite the great support. Excellent ground contact stability comes from its straight or semi-curved lasts.
- Performance – this comes with different levels of support and is used mostly by those in training or have efficient foot biomechanics. The design is narrower and lighter with extensive control and support. The midsole’s inner side is made from high density material with outer sole made of carbon rubber for durability. Maximum stability and ground contact is achieved.
- Neutral – minimized medial support and maximized midsole cushioning are the characteristic of this type of design. Runners with normal and high arches benefit from this design, which is comparatively lighter with virtually no motion control. Its curved or semi-curved lasts allows for faster movement.
- Minimalist – designed for maximum responsiveness, this shoe has a stripped-down design that retains its cushioning element. This is fit for runners who are biomechanically efficient.
Bottom line is that when choosing the right type of running shoes, you should consider what feels the best for you. When you wear it, does it feel like a part of your foot? Expert advice can help you find the right one for the natural shape and biomechanics of your foot.
Call to Foot Solutions UK today & let us help you choose the right running shoe for your foot type & running style.
