Choosing a running shoe is often a daunting task. There are so many to choose from, technology has evolved, and there are so many different features that play into the construction of a shoe. Many people buy based on how the shoe looks. This should be the last deciding factor once you select the right shoe for you and your foot type and activity. Many people try to find sales and try to get the best shoe for the least amount of money, an understandable strategy in these economic times, but can often get someone in the wrong shoe, and can contribute to injuries.
Finding and choosing the appropriate shoe-gear for your specific activity is very important in injury prevention. Several factors play a role in selecting the right shoes, including the anticipated activity, the ground surface you will participating on (i.e., grass, dirt, concrete), your body type and your foot type.
There are three general foot types that we can simply classify everyone into: high arch (supinated), normal, and low arch (pronated). Supination and pronation are a normal part of foot mechanics. Excessive motion in either direction is not desired, and can be at least partially controlled by the appropriate shoes; in some cases, custom functional orthotics or shoe inserts are added to better control the specific foot mechanics.
There are three general running shoe classifications: cushioned, neutral, and motion control/stability. A high arched foot will generally do better in a cushioned running shoe. A normal arch will do best in a neutral shoe. An excessively pronated or low-arched foot will often require a stability or motion control shoe.
We recommend you consider visiting a specialty running shoe store to get appropriately fitted. Once you know what shoe works for you and your activity, you can then think about buying online or through other stores if desired. Runners Lane, Valencia, Phidippides, Encino, A Snail’s Pace, Pasadena and Road Runner Sports, West Hills are some excellent specialty stores where you will be in good hands.
If you have a history of foot or ankle problems or injuries, or have specific questions about your feet, visit a podiatrist or foot and ankle orthopedist for a full evaluation and for tips on injury prevention.
For more information, please call 661-260-1180.