How To Choose The Right Running Shoes

By Author: oasisfootankle
Total Articles: 9

Your running shoes depend on your foot type. The degree of cushioning, stability and motion control depends upon your foot type. The most accurate way to learn about your foot type is to visit an experienced podiatrist. S/he can measure your arch type, stride and gait and help you understand how you can keep your feet in top shape and the right shoes that would be ideal for you.

Running shoes are designed around the idea of pronation. Pronation refers to the natural movement of your ankle as it rolls from the outside to inside when your foot hits the ground. If you run properly, you strike the ground on the outside of your heel and roll inwards before pushing off again. Pronation is essential since it helps the lower half of your body absorb shock and store energy.

Neutral runners pronate correctly and do not need special shoes to correct their form. They can choose from a wide variety of shoes or can even go barefoot. However, runners with arch problems or those with an incorrect form while running may suffer too much or too little pronation. These people need running shoes that offer additional support.

Overpronation
In people, who overpronate, there is excess ankle rolling. They would display ankles that are angled inward even while standing. They may also have flat feet or curved legs. This tendency to overpronate can lead to many injuries, especially to the knees, ankles, and Achilles tendon.

If you suspect that you overpronate, get shoes that offer extra stability and motion-control. Motion-control shoes are straight and firm and do not curve at the tip. The flexibility along the middle of the shoe is restricted and it stops the foot from rolling too far inward as your foot strikes the ground.

Underpronation
Underpronation is not as common as overpronation. Underpronation, or supination, occurs when feet are not able to roll inward when your feet hit the ground. People, who underpronate, have feet with reduced flexibility and high arches. Underpronation prevents shock absorption (even though it does place less rotational stress on ankles and knees). The additional force can lead to fractures, ligament tears, and muscle strains because legs try to compensate for impact. Those, who underpronate, need shoes with greater shock absorption ability and flexibility.

To learn more or if you are looking for the best podiatrist or foot doctor in Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona, call Oasis Foot and Ankle Clinic at 602-993-2700 Now. Oasis Foot and Ankle Centers offer cutting edge surgical and nonsurgical treatments for foot and ankle conditions and injuries.