Running is one of the fastest growing sports in the United States. With this boom in popularity has come an explosion in the reality of equipment available. While this panoply of gear is great for the seasoned veteran, people who are new to the sport can be easily confused. This is particularly true when it comes to the latest running shoes. This article will explain what to look for to ensure you get the best footwear for your particular needs.
Footwear for this sport can be divided into four different groups: cushioning, stability, motion control and minimalist. The padded type has the most cushioning and the softest feel underfoot and offers minimal arch support.
These models use gel, foam and other lightweight materials to protect the foot from impact. Padded models work well for larger runners, as well as runners with low arches or overpronation. Examples of popular footwear of this type include: Nike Lunar Glide 2, New Balance 730, and Saucony Triumph 8.
The second type is the stability category. These models correct overpronation by providing arch support. This type of shoe works well for lighter runners with normal to low arches and limited overpronation. The most popular models include the Brooks Adrenaline, the Asics 2160 and the Mizuno Wave.
The motion control category has maximum arch support to prevent overpronation. These models are recommended for runners with a low arch and severe overpronation. Popular models include: Brooks Beast 8, Asics Gel Foundation 9, and Saucony Progrid Stabil CS.
Recently, minimalist footwear has become very popular. The minimalist type offers very little arch support or cushioning and is designed to allow the feet to work as if the wearer were running barefoot. The idea behind this category is that by allowing the feet to work harder and move more naturally, they become stronger and runners can run faster and be less prone to injury. Popular shapes in this category include the Vibram Five Finger, the Nike Free Run, and the Newton Running Gravity. Studies are still underway to determine whether or not this shoe actually protects runners from injury.
So how do you know which of the latest running shoes is right for you? You must first determine what type of pronation you have. If your feet roll excessively inward at the ankle while walking, you are overpronated and probably need stability models or motion control. If your feet tend to roll while walking, you have insufficient pronation and would probably benefit from cushioned shoes. This is also true for people with normal pronation. People of all pronation types can try minimalist shoes, but it’s suggested that you start slowly to give your body time to adjust to the forces of impact.
If you have a sports specialty store in your area, you may benefit from having a specialist fit you. They will measure your arch, pronation type, and gait pattern to help you choose the best shoe for your individual needs. Good luck in your new sports adventures.