Podiatrist Offices Conveniently Located In Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry & Montclair New Jersey

Innovative Foot & Ankle

Footnotes / Blog

Sunday, October 22nd, 2017 Elizabeth Anthony

Which Running Shoes are Best for You?

For runners, selecting the right shoe can help prevent painful, running-induced ailments. However, many runners are often confused about which shoe to choose because they lack knowledge of their gait cycle and how different shoes can benefit them.

Pronation and Shoe Selection

Pronation refers to how your foot rolls during the gait cycle to absorb shock. The way your foot moves while running can influence which type of shoe you should wear.

Neutral Pronation

Runners with neutral pronation have a foot that strikes the ground correctly during the gait cycle and absorbs shock effectively. These runners generally don’t experience as many running-related injuries and have more flexibility in shoe selection.

Overpronation

Overpronators experience excessive inward rolling of the ankle during the gait cycle, placing extra pressure on the inside of the foot. These runners need shoes that help realign the foot and provide more support on the outside of the heel.

Underpronation

Underpronators, also known as supinators, tend to strike the ground with the outside of the heel and don’t roll through the gait cycle properly. They need shoes with more material on the inside of the heel to help facilitate the proper push-off.

Maximalist vs. Minimalist Shoes

There has been a rise in both maximalist and minimalist shoes, each with distinct features designed to support different running needs.

Maximalist Shoes

Maximalist shoes feature added bulk to absorb shock and provide additional protection. They typically offer:

  • A higher profile for enhanced protection
  • Higher sidewalls for added stability
  • A low drop stance to promote a midfoot strike
  • Meta-rocker technology to improve toe-off efficiency

Example: HOKA ONE ONE

Minimalist Shoes

Minimalist shoes are defined as footwear that lacks high-cushioned heels, stiff soles, and arch support. These shoes promote:

  • A natural landing with less force on the heel
  • Improved muscle function and flexibility in the foot and leg muscles

Example: Vibram FiveFingers

Finding the Right Shoe for Your Running Style

The best running shoe for you depends on your foot type, level of pronation, and running goals. If you’re unsure about which shoe to choose, a podiatrist can help assess your gait and recommend the best footwear for your individual needs.

Visit Innovative Foot & Ankle for Personalized Shoe Recommendations

If you’d like expert advice on the best running shoes for your foot type and goals, schedule an appointment with one of our licensed podiatrists. Dr. Kaufman, Dr. Rallatos, Dr. Visperas, Dr. Gonzales, and Dr. Anthony are all up-to-date on the latest running shoe information and can help you find the perfect fit.

We have offices throughout Northern New Jersey, including locations in Essex, Union, Hudson, and Bergen counties.

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