If you are preparing for your next run, you may want to follow the advice given in this article to shop for your favorite pair of athletic shoes. Whether you’re getting ready to get fit or be a part of a big run, make sure you know what to look for in your running shoes. As soon as you have found the right pair, you will be able to perform much better.
Bow type
First of all, you need to find out your bow type. Here are 3 steps to help you find your bow type:
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Wet the soles of both feet
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Place your feet on a sheet of paper.
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Examine your footprint
By following these three steps, you can find your bow type. It can be flat, medium or tall, for example. Let’s discuss them.
Flat
If you have light feet, you will have low or no visible arches. These types of arches leave complete footprints. Typically, this type of arch offers more flexibility and can overpronate.
Half
If you have normal feet, you will have a moderate arch type. This type of arch will show the forefoot and heel joined by a wide band. Most runners with normal feet have a semi-flexible arch.
High
If a very narrow band connects only the heel and foot, you have a high arch. In general, high arched feet may not absorb shock effectively. Therefore, you may need to opt for athletic shoes that offer additional cushioning.
Types of gait
Your gait represents the way your feet leave or touch the ground while walking or running. If you find your gait type, you can find out the part of your feet that touches the ground. Let’s analyze three types of gait.
normal
As you run, the outside of the heel of your foot hits the ground. At the same time, your feet move inward to absorb the impact.
Pronation
In this type of gait, the outside of the heel of the foot hits the ground and undergoes excessive inward rotation. As a result, it hinders your foot and ankle’s ability to keep your body stable and absorb shock.
Supination
The outer side of your heel hits the ground first; however, it will not drift inward. As a result, your heel keeps rotating outward. The impact then affects a small area on the outside of your foot.
Types of footwear
Once you’ve figured out your gait and arch type, your next step is to figure out the type of shoes you can go for. Depending on the running styles, each type has its own qualities.
Neutral running shoes
You can go for neutral athletic shoes if you have arches and your feet roll out excessively. This type of footwear provides cushioning in the midsole to absorb impacts.
Motion control shoes
If you have a flat or low arch, motion control shoes may work very well for you. Additionally, these shoes feature flatter soles and built-in support. This combo can stabilize your feet by controlling excessive pronation.
Stability shoes
If you have a medium arch, stability shoes are ideal for you, as they have enough cushioning in the midsole and medial support.
So, here are some tips that can help you buy the right pair of athletic shoes.