There are various kinds of running shoes. It is very important to understand which running shoes are best for you. Following are the different types of running shoes:
Motion-Control Shoes:
Motion-control shoes are the most rigid, control-oriented running shoes. Designed to limit overpronation (or slow the rate at which a runner
overpronates), motion-control shoes are generally heavy but very durable. They may include features such as a medial post (for pronation control), a
polyurethane midsole (for midsole durability) and a carbon rubber outsole (for outsole durability). Many are built on a straight last, which offers
stability and maximum medial support. You should buy these shoes if you are an overpronator who needs control features and places a premium on durability, or,if you wear orthotics and want a firm midsole and deep heel counter, or, if
you are a heavy runner who needs extra durability and control. Runners with flat feet often do best in motion-control shoes.
Stability Shoes:
Stability shoes offer a good blend of cushioning, medial support and durability. To provide stability, these shoes often have a medial post or dual-density midsoles. They are usually built on a semicurved last. You should buy these shoes if: you are a midweight runner who doesnt have any severe motion-control problems and wants a shoe with some medial support and good
durability. Runners with normal arches often do fine in stability shoes.
Cushioned Shoes:
Cushioned shoes generally have the softest (or most cushioned) midsoles and the least medial support. They are usually built on a semicurved or curved last to encourage foot motion, which is helpful for underpronators (who have rigid, immobile feet). You should buy these shoes if: you are an efficient runner who doesnt overpronate and doesnt need any extra medial support. Runners with high arches often do best in cushioned shoes.
Lightweight Training Shoes:
Lightweight training shoes are lighter versions of standard trainers. Usually built on a semicurved or curved last, lightweight trainers are for fast-paced training or racing. Some lightweight trainers are relatively stable; others
are not. You should buy these shoes if: you are a quick, efficient runner who wants a light second shoe for fast-paced training. Or: if you want a racing shoe, but want more support and cushioning than youd get from one of the pure, superlight racers.
Trail Shoes:
Trail shoes offer increased outsole traction, midsoles similar to those of stability shoes and uppers with toe bumpers and reinforced stitching for more durability. You should buy these shoes if: you do a lot of off-road running and need shoes with extra traction, more durable uppers and extra protection from stone bruises.
About The Author
Tom Sneddon is a contributing author and publisher to
http://www.runningshoesadvice.com an online resource that provides you with
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