A new runner can be thoroughly confused when beginning to look for a good shoe. While there are several great review sources, both online and in magazines, some terminology will need to be addressed. By learning just a few basic terms you can begin to understand the Running Shoes Reviews. Foot strike and types of shoes will be discussed.
Knowing what type of shoe is good for you will give you some buzz words that will translate into understanding most reviews. Pronation has to do with how your foot strikes the surface. Normal pronation, when walking, is when your foot lands on the outside edge and then rolls inward. Some runner’s feet roll inward too much. This is called overpronation. Some footwear is designed lessen this condition.
Figuring out if you overpronate is a simple visual exercise. Pick up a pair of footgear you regularly wear. Set them on a counter soles down, insides together, toes pointing away, and heels toward you. Now bend down and look at the inside soles and how they sit next to each other. If the soles are worn on the heel’s inside and/or they are leaning on each other, you overpronate. The type of footwear you want has motion control qualities.
If you notice wear on the outside edge of the sole and the heel, this is called underpronation or supination. The foot does not roll inward. You may notice that the outside of the shoe itself may be stretched out over the sole. Lightweight footgear with a flexible arch is thought best for this condition.
Cushioned footgear is for people who do not overpronate. They have medium to high arches and need high midsole cushioning. There is little arch support.
Motion Control. Look for this construction when a moderate to severe overpronation. The motion of the heel turning in is controlled with some support in the arch. This construction is good for low arches and for people who are big or heavy.
Performance Trainers. Not only for training, these lightweight trainers are also good for speedwork and racing. When you have a normal pronation to a moderate overpronation this type may work well.
Racing. People who have normal pronation can use this lightweight product for racing or training. Because of light construction these should not be used if any injuries are present. Use performance trainers or regular training footwear if you have an injury.
Stability. Constructed for people who need support in the arch but need cushioning on the remaining mid-sole. These are very durable and stable shoes. Look at these if your overpronation is slight to moderate.
Trail shoes should be worn if you run off road. These also have traction and some protection against water. These are low-profile to give you better stability on uneven trail runs.
Spending some time learning the words of athletic footwear construction will give you better understanding of Running Shoes Reviews. Go to a running shoe store for a good discussion on the type best suited for you.
