3 types of Running shoes for 3 types of feet.
26 March 2009
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When it comes to running biomechanics, there are three types of runners (click here to find out what runner type you are).
No matter what brand (be it Asics or Nike or NB), running shoes are divided into three main silos, each one addressing the specific needs of one of the three types of runners.
| Runner Type | Shoe Type | Explanation |
 Over Pronator |
Motion Control Shoes
(check our Motion Control Running Shoes Reviews!) |
Motion control footwear emphasizes medial support by having dual density midsoles, roll bars or foot bridges. This medial (inside support) support slows the rate of over pronation. An example of a motion control shoe would be the Asics Evolution and the Brooks Addiction Walker. |
 Neutral Pronator |
Stability shoes | Stability footwear combines cushioning features and support features into its design. An example would be the Asics GT 2140 running shoe. |
 Supinator |
Cushioning shoes
(check our Cushioning Running Shoes Reviews!) |
Cushioned footwear emphasizes enhanced shock dispersion in its midsole and/or outsole design. Many shoe companies add materials to the heel and forefoot areas to enhance the cushioning properties of the shoe i.e. air, gel, hydro flow etc. An example of a cushioned running shoe would be the Asics Gel Nimbus. |
These kind of shoes differ from each other for a whole series of characteristics, the most important of which reside in the midsole of the shoe.
Check out our articles on the anatomy of a running shoe – we will explain you how different shoes help you run !
Related posts:
I strike midfoot. Do I have to take into consideration the type of pronation?
If you strike midfoot you are already putting a lot of stress off your ankles/knees – therefore you won’t need either a lot of heel cushioning or extremely stable shoes.
At the same time, you should always look after your pronation (ie when you start running very long distances). You could try and use shoes designed for midfoot/forefoot strike such as the Newtons or the right cushioned or supportive shoe, withouth having to go for an extreme in either direction.
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