Foot Type:
Which Shoes Do I Choose?
By Kirk M. Contento, DPM
When looking for an athletic shoe to fit your foot properly, the first thing you should know is what type of foot you have.
A pronated foot, or a foot which flattens out too early in the gait cycle will feel more comfortable in a shoe with a straight last and a roomy toe box. An easy way to evaluate the last is to turn the shoe over and see if it curves toward the midline or away from the midline. This is a curved last shoe and will only torment a pronator. A straight last shoe will look straight on the bottom or a line bisecting the heel of the shoe will end up bisecting the front of the shoe. To evaluate the toe box, observe if the shoe narrows from top to bottom as it extends to the end of the toes. This shoe will also not make a pronator happy. Some examples of straight last pronator friendly shoes are Saucony, Adidas, and some Brooks.
A supinated, cavus or high arched foot which does not pronate (or minimally pronates) will lavish a curved last shoe such as Nike, Reebok, or Fila. Remember to try on the shoes for size later on in the day when your feet are a little swollen. Also remember that different brands and models will be sized differently, so you may vary even in that respect.
For further questions regarding proper shoe gear, feel free to contact (773) 582-6620.
Foot Types
 |
 |
 |
|
The Normal Foot
Feet characteristics: A normal foot lands on the outside of the heel, and then rolls inward (pronates) slightly to absorb shock. Runners with a normal foot and normal weight are usually considered biomechanically efficient and don’t require motion control shoes. Best last: Semi-curved. Best shoes: Stability shoes with moderate control features such as a two density mid sole.
|
The Flat Foot
Foot characteristics: This imprint usually indicated an overpronated foot that strikes on the outside of the heel and rolls inward (pronates) excessively. Over time, this can cause many different kinds of overuse injuries. Best last: Straight or semi-curved. Best Shoes: Motion control shoes, or stability shoes with firm midsoles and control features that reduce the degree of pronation. Stay away from highly cushioned shoes and go for ones that offer stability and control. |
The High Arched Foot Description: High arched feet leave an imprint showing a very narrow band connecting the forefoot and heel Foot characteristics: A curved, high arched foot is generally termed an underpronated foot. This type of foot doesn’t pronate enough, so it’s not an effective shock absorber. Best last: Curved. Best shoes: Cushioned shoes with plenty of flexibility to encourage foot motion. Stay from motion control or stability shoes that reduce foot mobility. |
|
|
|
Send mail to
registrar@ipma.net
with questions or
comments about this web site.
|
|
|
|
|