Quick Guide To Selecting Running Shoe Style

To determine the correct type of running shoe for your feet, use the tried and tested “wet foot test”. Dip your foot into water and then stand on a surface that will show your footprint - a towel or piece of paper or cardboard. The shape of your wet footprint indicates the amount of stability you might need in your shoe.

Cushion

If your footprint looks like the one ABOVE (with a very narrow band or no band at all between the forefoot and the heel) then you should choose shoes from the cushion category on this page Cushioned shoes generally have the softest midsoles and the least added stability. They’re built on a semicurved or curved last to encourage foot motion, which is helpful for runners who have rigid, immobile feet (underpronators). You should buy these if you’re an efficient runner whose feet don't roll inwards excessively (overpronate) when you run.

Stability

If your footprint looks like the one ABOVE (with a a flare, but with the forefoot and heel connected by a broad band.) then you should choose shoes from the stability category on this page. Stability shoes offer a good blend of cushioning, medial support (to limit excessive inward rolling of the foot, which can cause injury) and durability. To provide stability, they often have a medial post or dual-density midsole - these are features that provide a firmer density under the inner edge of your foot. You should buy these if you’re a midweight runner who doesn’t have any severe motion control problems and wants a shoe with some medial support and good durability

 Motion Control

  If your footprint looks like the one ABOVE (with a low arch leaving a print that looks like the whole sole of the foot) then you should choose shoes from the motion control category on this page. You should choose these if you’re an "overpronator" who needs control features and places a premium on durability or you wear orthoses (sculpted shoe inserts) and want a firm midsole and deep heel counter or you’re a heavy runner who needs extra durability and control.

 Information provided by Wiggle Mail Order

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