One of the most common questions asked of orthopedic doctors is, “Does my sneaker type really matter when I’m running?” There are a number of factors that go into answering this question, and if you are unable to find the right running shoe to keep you comfortable, you should seek the advice of a foot doctor Rancho Cucamonga CA.
There are hundreds of sneaker brands on the market, and each one makes multiple types of sneaker models. Even though it is impossible for an orthopedic doctor to provide a generalized recommendation, it is possible to provide information that will lead you to find the right shoe.
Different Foot Types
An orthopedist can help you determine your foot type. Your foot type determines a number of factors, including your specific gait pattern. In order to find the perfect running shoe for you, the sneaker must be matched to your foot type and pattern of gait.
There are three basic foot types, and each will result in a different gait.
- Pronators are typically flat-footed and require more stability in their sneaker. The right shoe will prevent pronation and overpronation during running, which can lead to joint pain in the feet, knees, and hips.
- Neutral are typically able to wear a larger array of footwear. Typically, a shoe with moderate stability meets their needs.
- Supinators have a higher arch in their foot. Typically, a cushioned sneaker that provides a moderate amount of midsole padding, flexibility, and a shock absorbent design will help relieve the stress running causes.
Because there are a number of foot types, sneaker manufacturers have created multiple lines of shoes to accommodate these needs. Unfortunately, they are not marked according to foot type category, but a good sales associate will be able to help you locate the right type of shoe for your needs.
Types of Shoes
When you are buying shoes, it is important to clearly state the purpose of the shoe you are buying. For example, where you will be running. You will need a different type of shoe for running on asphalt than you would if you are running on trails. Each surface will provide a different type of impact to your foot, so where you will run is a major deciding factor in the type of shoe you will choose.
Choosing the Right Shoe
Whether you have consulted an orthopedist or not, there are some general rules to choosing a running shoe that you should follow. These rules include the following:
- The type of sneaker – Which we discussed earlier.
- Testing Torsion – When you are looking at a shoe, you should test to see if it twists. How much does it twist? A good shoe will give you some flexibility but should resist over twisting, which would allow your foot to resort back to its natural, uncomfortable position.
- Flexibility Test – A good sneaker should bend comfortably where your toe bends, at the ball of the foot. If the shoe bends more towards the center of the shoe, or near the heal, the shoe is not stable enough to consider a good running shoe.
- Can you Remove the Insole – The correct running shoe will have a removable insole. This allows you to purchase custom orthotics, or even over the counter orthotics to provide more comfort. This will allow you to customize how the shoe fits, and how your foot moves while running.
Ensuring that you have the right running shoe for your personal needs will ensure that your run is comfortable and that you are not putting yourself at risk for developing a running injury.