How to pick your running shoes – Part 2

Heres How to pick your running shoes – Part 2

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

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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