Athletic Running Shoes
Selection of shoes in sports is primarily determined by purpose. Depending on that there are different types of shoes for running walking and training.
Difference between a Running Shoe and a Walking Shoe
A running shoe is often lightweight and is designed for higher impact. They have more cushioning as well. While walking the foot comes more in contact with the ground and hence walking shoes will have a belevelled heel and flexible forefoot. It is because while running we bend knees more where as in the case of walking the foot and ankle are more put to use. For walking a running shoe can be used; but a walking shoe can never be used for running.
How Women’s Shoes are Different
Women’s shoes are different from men’s shoes in shape and size. Most women have wider forefoot and narrow heel. Accordingly there is a difference in width in the forefoot and the heel of the shoe.
Criteria of selection of Athletic Running Shoes
Criteria of selection of athletic running shoes include the following:
Nature of the Surface
Shoes used for running on grassy surfaces will be different from shoes designed for running on rocky terrains. Shoes for soft surfaces are less cushioned than those designed for rough terrains.
Nature of Event
Running shoes used for sprint items are different from those used for long distance running. Spikes are usually used in sprints while racing flats are preferred for long distance running.
Overpronation and Underpronation of the Foot
The inward movement of the feet while running or walking is called pronation accompanied by the straightening of the arches to provide a cushioning support to the feet. Usually people with low foot arch tend to overpronate where as people with high foot arch underpronate. The former needs a shoe with high stability while the latter a shoe that can provide flexibility. A tip for buying shoes is to look foot the “last” or shape of the shoe. People who overpronate should look for flat lasts, those who underpronate, curved lasts, and people with normal feet can opt for a semi-curved last.
Proper Size and Fit
Make sure that the shoes fit snugly to your feet. There should be a half an inch space between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. The measurements should be taken while standing up so that the full impact of the body weight on feet will be felt. Also make sure to give trial run to check any discomfort.
Types of Athletic Running Shoes
There are different types of athletic running shoes depending on purpose and foot particulars. They include the following:
Racing Flats
Lightweight shoes used in long distance running. Characterized by a substantial lack of heels and cushioning.
Spikes
Usually favored for sprinting events. They are light weight and provide traction and speed on the track. Sprint spikes have the maximum number of pins on the forefoot of the shoe.
Stability Shoes
Stability shoes are a remedy for mild or moderate overpronation. They have medial support and light midsole cushioning.
Motion Control Shoes
They provide stability, have little cushioning and regulate the pronation via extra support devices in the medial side.
Trail Shoes
Moderately stable shoe with a bottom that is largely for increased traction. They have a stiff mid sole and a rugged outer sole.