How to pick your running shoes – Part 2 on the Gold Coast — this guide from Ace Health Centre walks you through what matters most: when to seek help, what treatment looks like, and what to expect from your recovery. Call (07) 5572 6222 to book.
How to pick your running shoes – Part 2 on the Gold Coast — this guide from Ace Health Centre walks you through what matters most: when to seek help, what treatment looks like, and what to expect from your recovery. Call (07) 5572 6222 to book.
Heres How to pick your running shoes – Part 2
-
Ankle motion
Without getting too technical, we have to get technical here. However to keep it simple, let’s just say your ankle motion determines the heel pitch in your shoes. Each shoe is slightly different and can range from 0-12mm with a few exceptions.
We say exceptions because there is a good chance that almost everyone, reading this blog, will fall into one of the four categories below.
Stiff ankle
Less than 90 degrees’ dorsiflexion – 10-12mm heel pitch
Moderate ankle motion
90 degrees’ dorsiflexion – 6- 10mm heel pitch
Good ankle motion
10 degrees dorsiflexion – 4-10mm heel pitch
Hypermobile ankle
15 + degrees dorsiflexion – 8-12mm heel pitch
-
Injury History
If you have a history of injuries such as heel pain, shin splints, calf pain or achilles pain then make sure your shoe has a heel pitch of 10-12 mm. Also, be careful when buying your pair of runners and make sure your shoes don’t bend through the midfoot.
-
Type Of Running
Competition vs. Training vs. Speed workouts vs. Long Runs. There are so many variables when it comes to running. For example, racing shoes are very different to training shoes and should only be used for the occasional speed work session and race events. These shoes are lighter, flatter and more flexible than the average pair, which increases the risk of injuries considerably. Doing your due diligence and carefully evaluating the purpose for your runners can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. We suggest you take the time and talk to your sports store’s shoe specialist about your training regiments and goals to get the most appropriate footwear that fits your needs.
-
Terrain
Are you running cross-country or on solid ground? We would like to encourage you to think about your footwear the same way you think about the tires of your car. Off road cars have solid tires with a lot of grip for enhanced traction whereas race tires are slick and thin, designed for speed and performance. Well, your shoes are no different! Off road shoes are a lot firmer than your everyday pair of runners. They are designed for stability and support with features like the extra grip or water-resistance, which in return changes the structure of the upper on your shoes.
-
Running style
The more you land on your rear foot, the more cushioning, support and heel pitch you need. Over the years working with professional athletes and everyday runners, we have seen a lot of different foot placements which all have an impact on your feet. Your heel pitch should be between 8-12mm if you come down rear first when running. If you have more of a balanced running style, then we recommend a heel pitch between 6-10mm or 4-8mm if you come down heavy on your forefoot.
You are ready now! Our guide should help you decide on the running shoes you want and what level of support you need. We all been there and know how overwhelming it can be to buy the right pair of runners to not only perform but also to stay injury free. We hope this guide makes your selection a little bit easier and helps your thought process in deciding on the best possible fit for your feet. That concludes how to pick your running shoes – Part 2. If your not sure where to look for them try Athletes foot. If you are still not sure and need to double check them book with our podiatrist
What to Expect From How to pick your running shoes – Part 2 at Ace Health Centre
Patients who book How to pick your running shoes – Part 2 with our team get a clinic-grade assessment, a clear plain-language plan, and a structured progression rather than a one-off appointment. Furthermore, we coordinate care across podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology where relevant, so you are not bouncing between clinics. Authoritative information on this topic is also available from Australian Physiotherapy Association if you would like to read further before booking. As a result, you walk in informed and walk out with a plan you understand.
For more on what we do, see our main service page.
Frequently Asked Questions About How to pick your running shoes – Part 2
Should I keep running through pain? Mild niggles can usually be run through at reduced volume. Pain over 3/10, or that worsens with running, is a stop signal — book an assessment.
How often should I replace running shoes? Most runners get 600-800 km out of a pair before midsole foam loses rebound. Track your kilometres and watch for new niggles as a cue to swap.
Do I need orthotics to run? Most runners do well without them. Custom orthotics are useful when foot mechanics are clearly contributing to a recurring injury.
Book Your How to pick your running shoes – Part 2 Appointment
Ready to get started? Call (07) 5572 6222 or book online. In addition, new patients can use our no-gap initial consult — straightforward, no surprises.
