Going for
Shopping for cushioned running shoes is more than just about getting the right fit and style as there are other factors that you have to take into consideration if you’re to find the perfect pair for you. Function, durability and comfort are also very important because you’ll need your running shoes to be able to withstand the strenuous demands of running, match your needs, serve the purpose for which they were designed, and make you feel comfortable wearing it at the same time. As such, you need to be able to tell the difference between the different types of running shoes, look for high quality material, know your foot type and running style as well as your preferences. Make sure to also check out our Running Shoes Review.
Running exposes the feet to impact and hazards so wearing cushioned shoes, especially when running on hazardous routes and hard surfaces, has become increasingly popular among runners. But to help you gain a better understanding and have greater appreciation of what cushioned running shoes are made for and how they work, let’s take a look at how it differs from the other types of running shoes designed for different foot types. Basically, there are four types of shoes and these are neutral shoes, stability shoes, motion control shoes, and barefoot shoes.
Neutral shoes are cushioned to perform some shock absorption function and medial support so they’re recommended for runners who exhibit mild pronation or supination, in which condition the foot rolls outward. Stability shoes have slightly firmer reinforcement on the arch side and are recommended for runners exhibiting mild to moderate overpronation, in which the foot rolls inward. Motion control shoes come with more rigid built to support low or collapsed arches and are recommended for runners exhibiting moderate to severe overpronation. And for runners who want high sensitivity to the ground, barefoot or minimalist shoes that offer zero or little cushioning for the feet are recommended.
Where you land or whether it’s your heel or the front part of your foot that hits the ground first when you run is another consideration for picking the cushioned running shoes for you. Depending on the amount of support and protection that you need, and the level of sensitivity to the ground that you prefer to experience when you run, you can narrow down your options or try different types until you find the one that is functional and comfortable enough for you to perform to your optimum and reach maximum efficiency in attaining your fitness and running goals.
Cushioning can come in different forms or materials but they mainly serve the same purpose, which is to function as the shoes’ shock absorption mechanism. There’s air cushioning, compressible gel cushioning, and foam cushioning. If you deem it best for you to use cushioned running shoes, remember to carefully listen to your body and note signs of pain and discomfort when you break them in for varying duration, distance and speed. If possible also, invest in more than one pair.