Athletic footwear is not only designed with a sport in mind, but also for various foot types. To prevent injury it's important that you run in shoes based on the type of feet you have. In this article you will learn how to determine your foot type and the type of running shoes that work best for specific foot types.
Generally speaking there are three kinds of feet and below we outline the three different kinds of foot types commonly seen and the kind of running shoes that are appropriate for each of them.
High Arched Feet
This foot type has a very high arch. It is unmistakable, but if you are in doubt, just push your fingers under your arch while keeping your foot flat on the ground. You should be able to push it more than half way through the breadth of your foot. If you observer your foot prints, it will have a prominent heel mark and toes, but very little in-between. The curve at the center of the foot is so great that it extends almost to the other side of the foot.
The trouble that high arched runners have is that their feet under pronate. In other words, their feet have a tendency to turn outwards while running. When running long distances, the arches will tend to break a little causing the foot to extend in length. Those with high arches need to ensure that they wear a neutral running shoe.
Low Arch or Flat Feet
People with low arched feet, have no arch to speak of. Whereas in the high arch footprint, where the arch doesn't touch the ground, the low arch, makes contact with the ground. Opposite to high arched people, those that are flat footed will most likely over pronate, which is where your feet turn inwards when running.
It is best that people with flat feet use orthotics. Orthotics can be custom made for an individual foot type and provide extra support needed for your arch. But generic orthotics can also be purchased off the shelf. Words like "Motion Control" are what to look for in your running shoe.
Average Arch
If you don't have a low arch and you don't have a high arch, then chances are you fall into the normal foot category. Most of us have normal feet, but with varying levels of arch. Typically, someone with an average arch would choose a "stability" running shoe. The running shoe market has many models available. It won't be hard to find a comfortable pair.
As runners, it's imperative that we take care of our feet to avoid injuries. Injuries mean lost running time and wearing the wrong running shoes for your foot type will eventually cause injuries. Choosing the right running shoes is worth it in the long run.
Generally speaking there are three kinds of feet and below we outline the three different kinds of foot types commonly seen and the kind of running shoes that are appropriate for each of them.
High Arched Feet
This foot type has a very high arch. It is unmistakable, but if you are in doubt, just push your fingers under your arch while keeping your foot flat on the ground. You should be able to push it more than half way through the breadth of your foot. If you observer your foot prints, it will have a prominent heel mark and toes, but very little in-between. The curve at the center of the foot is so great that it extends almost to the other side of the foot.
The trouble that high arched runners have is that their feet under pronate. In other words, their feet have a tendency to turn outwards while running. When running long distances, the arches will tend to break a little causing the foot to extend in length. Those with high arches need to ensure that they wear a neutral running shoe.
Low Arch or Flat Feet
People with low arched feet, have no arch to speak of. Whereas in the high arch footprint, where the arch doesn't touch the ground, the low arch, makes contact with the ground. Opposite to high arched people, those that are flat footed will most likely over pronate, which is where your feet turn inwards when running.
It is best that people with flat feet use orthotics. Orthotics can be custom made for an individual foot type and provide extra support needed for your arch. But generic orthotics can also be purchased off the shelf. Words like "Motion Control" are what to look for in your running shoe.
Average Arch
If you don't have a low arch and you don't have a high arch, then chances are you fall into the normal foot category. Most of us have normal feet, but with varying levels of arch. Typically, someone with an average arch would choose a "stability" running shoe. The running shoe market has many models available. It won't be hard to find a comfortable pair.
As runners, it's imperative that we take care of our feet to avoid injuries. Injuries mean lost running time and wearing the wrong running shoes for your foot type will eventually cause injuries. Choosing the right running shoes is worth it in the long run.
About the Author:
Jacquie Cattanach enjoys running and triathlons and loves to write about it on her Running Blog. You can find lots of interesting reviews on topics such as the best running socks and P90X Review. Please drop by our website where you can also sign up for our free newsletter with tips and advice for the everyday runner.