Running Shoes 101: How to Choose Shoes for Your Next Adventure

(Running Shoes 101: HOW TO CHOOSE SHOES FOR YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE GET TO KNOW YOUR FOOT Finding Your Arch Shape The Wet Foot Test With a wet foot, step on the floor and examine your footprint. Low or no arch will leave a flat-footed footprint. The wider and straighter the print is, the lower the arch. A high arch will leave a narrow, curved footprint, and the heel and ball may not even connect. A normal arch will leave a print in between the above two. Finding Your Stride Pronation is the foot's natural roll following the heel strike. It absorbs impact and reduces pressure on sensitive joints. Overpronation is an exaggerated inward roll of the foot, common among runners. It results in a higher risk of knee pain. Supination is the outward roll of the foot. It is less common and results in too little impact absorption. WHAT TO LOOK FOR INA RUNNING SHOE Pronators Overpronators Supinators Flat foot or low arch Medium to high arch Foot Shape Low arch Shock Absorption Good Good Curved Recommended Stability Motion control Cushioning Recommended Last Semi-curved Straight Poor ROAD SHOES VS.TRAIL SHOES Road Running Shoes Trail Running Shoes Designed For: Running on pavement, smooth surfaces, maintained trails Running off-road on uneven, rocky, and muddy terrain Well-cushioned for impact protection Well-cushioned for stability and comfort on uneven ground Cushioning Varies depending on type of shoe Stiffer underfoot; may even have additional insert in midsole to protect foot from sharp objects Support Thicker, more aggressive treads for added traction and stability Tread Light, flexible, basic lugs Weight Lighter and more responsive Heavier for greater protection GRAPHIC PROVIDED BY: www.mudrunclermont.com Sources: http://www.active.com/running/Articles/Trail-Running-Shoes-101 http://www.livestrong.com/article/84179-trail-running-shoes-vs.-running! http://www.runaddicts.net/start-to-run/how-to-choose-running-shoes http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/how-to/footwearlpages/selecting-athletic-shoes.aspx http://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/take-wet-test-learn-your-foot-type