Marathon Running Shoes

Running Shoes

The proper running shoes, for an athlete, are the most important part of his equipment. Since the foot acts like a shock absorber, the proper shoes will promote more efficient impact dissipation, and result in fewer injuries. Frustration and medical bills are far more expensive than a quality pair of running shoes.

Types of Running Shoes

There are four main types of shoes for runners. Stability shoes have a durable, excessively stable cushion on the inside of the shoe. Those that have no need for motion control can enjoy these shoes. They are designed for runners with normal feet and with a slight inward curve at the arch. Motion controlled shoes are designed to control the movement of the foot’s joints, and tend to be heavy and inflexible. Runners with flat feet will find that these shoes work best and provide the durability they need. Cushioned running shoes have an excellent cushioned mid-sole. Runners that do not have an inward-striking foot will find this shoe to be the most comfortable and effective. Lightweight performance shoes are usually highly responsive and ideal for quick, well-trained runners. Some cushioning is sacrificed, but this shoe is far more suited to experienced runners.

Determining Foot Type

Three different types of feet can decide which running shoe will best meet a runner’s need. Normally, they are categorized as normal, flat, or high-arched.
• A normal sized arch exhibits a footprint that shows almost the entire foot with an inward curve about the arch. This foot hits the ground and rolls inward slightly, which is called pronating. Because of this foot shape, the impact against the ground is distributed evenly. A stability shoe works best for a runner with this foot shape.
• Flat feet are characterized by low arches, and a footprint that does not curve at the arch. Motion control shoes with very firm mid soles are best for this type of runner.
• High arched feet have a footprint that only shows the heel and the ball of the foot, leaving no connection between them. High arched feet run well in a cushioned shoe, because they are granted greater mobility.
Replacing Running Shoes

Wearing a pair of running shoes too long increases the chance for injuries. They should be replaced after a certain number of kilometres (somewhere between 700 to1000 kilometres) have been accumulated. Shoes should most definitely be replaced after a certain number of kilometres has been reached, since the soles can be worn without causing the exterior to look worn. Similar to the tires of an automobile, running shoes must be maintained and replaced before they wear out completely.

Choosing a Running shoe

There are many major shoe manufacturers in the world, and all of them produce the above mentioned shoe types. Finding the right pair for any given foot type should not be a difficult task. The biggest decision should be based on how well the shoe fits the foot. When a new pair of running shoes is first worn, they should be comfortable and at least one-half of a size larger than a regular pair of shoes. It is important for a runner to conduct many trial and error tests to find the correct pair of running shoes. The web can be an excellent resource on this hunt, and a great deal of information on brands like Nike, Asics, Brooks and Saucony can be found.

Special needs

Some runners have specialized medical needs and must wear orthopaedic support in their shoes. A physician, such as a podiatrist, is best sought out before any shoe purchase is made. The help of an expert will help to classify the kind of product that works best for each individual runner. Proper training and periodic drills can even improve problems with foot strike and running ergonomics.

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