Structure of Running Shoes

Breathable materials comprise the major component of a running shoe.

Manufacturers design the structure of running shoes using a variety of methods. No one running shoe is standard for everyone since each foot is different. As a result, running shoes are crafted differently to provide the necessary support that runners need.

Stability

Stability is a critical issue to runners in their choice of running shoes. The running shoe design provides a basic level of support with added cushioning for foot and heel impact. Runners who have average or middle-of-the road foot arches can wear these shoes.

Neutral Cushioning

For runners with significantly high arches, neutral cushioning shoes will work. This shoe type provides significant mid-foot cushioning. In doing so, the shoe design offsets the fact that the person's foot isn't distributing the impact load correctly. By neutralizing the imbalance in impact zones, the shoe neutralizes the foot flaw.

Motion Control

Many folks who are heavier-framed should use a motion-control type running shoe. This structure provides additional support for runners with very little foot arch or with flat feet. The added support helps prevent ankle injuries that occur from the weight impact on an "uneven" foot.

References

• Asics America: The Basics
• Cross Country Running Shoes 101: Selecting the Right Shoe
• Cool Running: Running Shoe Guide for Dummies - Part 1

Resources

• REI: How to Choose Running Shoes
• Runner's World: Running Shoe Care