Understanding Different Types Of Running Shoes | Collaborative Post

The world of running shoes can be mysterious and confusing. People will spend a lot of time explaining to you why you need to find running shoes that meet your needs, but if you don’t know or understand what those needs are, other than running, you will be left at a loss for what to do. Let’s make everything easier, and break down the different types of shoes, what their functions are, and why you need a recommended pair instead of another pair someone else is trying to sell you!

From terminology to technicalities, let’s look at the ins and outs of running shoes.

Different types of support

Maximum support running shoes provide the most stability and control and serve the purpose of controlling severe pronation. High-density materials on the inner edge of the sole are there to prevent the sole from collapsing during the footfall. You can also expect a firmer outsole for extra support and durability. These shoes are built on a mold to assist in offering the greatest stability and support. 

Stability shoes are a midway blend of control and cushioning. They weigh less than maximum support shoes and offer less active motion control, but they can still be relied upon to offer decent support. Most people will end up with a pair of shoes from this category, as the contact stability is good and the run you can achieve in these shoes will be a solid, comparable performance.

Neutral shoes are just that – they don’t offer any special features, and are the lightest of the shoes discussed thus far. Their lightweight construction encourages faster movement, and the shoes are soft to wear, as the extra support features are lacking. These shoes are not recommended for overweight runners, who will benefit from some extra support.

How your foot affects your choice of running shoe

Your foot type is also a consideration in your journey to finding the right pair of running shoes. Your foot type is mainly determined by the height of your arches, and this matters, because it affects how your feet hit the ground. The three types of foot arches are high, normal, and low. 

There are many ways to test the type of arch you have – the easiest is the so-called wet test, where you step onto a piece of paper with wet foot soles for about 10 seconds, and then examine the print your feet have left.  If you find that you can see most of your foot, and not much curve, you will likely benefit from shoes that offer more stability, in the form of a built-up side arch or medium-high density insoles. 

A strong curve along the inner edge of the foot imprint with a band about half as wide as your foot between your toes and ankles generally indicated arches of a normal height. If you are lucky enough to have normal arches, you will not need any corrective elements in your shoes and can wear any shoe you like. If you are still unsure after doing the test, any of the Asics stores in AU will be able to assist you with practical advice and help you to check your foot structure. 

If the band connecting your toes and heel is very thin on the print, you need to steer clear of shoes with arch support, as yours is already very high. You will benefit from shoes that offer cushioning around the outer edge. 

Do you understand your gait? 

Gait refers to how your feet naturally roll when they are in motion. Different running shoes are designed to accommodate different types of gait, so knowing what your is can be empowering in the process of finding the right shoes. 

The three types of gait include overpronation, where the foot rolls inwards after striking the ground, as the ankle cannot stabilize the stride naturally. People with flat feet or low arches tend to have this condition. Motion-control shoes with extra stability are a good match for people who overpronate. 

If your gait is neutral, your foot will roll from back to front in a natural, equal motion, with no need for correction. In this case, neutral shoes will be the best match. 

Those who underpronate will find that their feet tend to roll along the outer edge, due to high arches. Neutral cushioning is best for those whose feet behave in this way. 

If you are still unsure, it is recommended that you have your gait analyzed at one of the Asics stores in Australia – they are all equipped and skilled to offer you the best service.