GET MOVING* Sponsored By:

Injury Prevention

By Jennifer Lesko PT, MS

Torsion Rigidity: Grab the heel and under the forefoot and twist.
Good = No Twist at Midsole	Bad = Too Much Torsion
Heel Counter Rigidity: Grasp both sides of heel and squeeze.
Good = Stiff, Can’t Squeeze Together	Bad = Soft Heel, Squishes
Flexion Stability: Grasp back of shoe and bend forefoot to rear foot.
Good = Should Not Flex Past Forefoot
Bad = Flex at Midfoot or Rolls All The Way

Finding the right running or walking shoe can be a challenge. The temptation is to buy the “newest” technology, hippest styles, or the latest design, but are you getting the perfect fit? Foot biomechanics and shoe terminology can be a very complex and confusing subject. The best way to determine your foot type is to have a physical therapist or podiatrist observe you running and recommend a type of shoe. In addition, use the following basic terminology and a quick test when purchasing your next running shoe.

Often shoe terminology can be a marketing tool made up by manufacturers, but there are some terms that have become standard in the industry. It is always a good idea to check with a shoe expert about which shoes are designed for your foot type if they do not fall into the following categories.

Motion Control
Shoes are designed to decrease excessive motion/overpronation during running or walking. Overpronation is the excessive inward rolling of the foot between heel strike and toe-off, which causes increased pressure on the arch and inner sole. Motion control shoes are recommended for walkers with moderate to severe overpronation who need maximum rear foot control. They usually have increased arch support and are good for heavy or big walkers who require increased support.

Stability
Shoes are similar to motion control in their resistance to excessive foot motion, but are less rigid. They are recommended for walkers who need a medial arch support and good midsole cushioning. They are best suited for mild to moderate overpronators, but are also good for walkers with normal foot types (normal pronators) who are looking for increased stability and durability.

Cushion
Shoes are defined as having maximum midsole cushioning and little medial stability. They are designed for underpronators or supinators, who require increased cushioning to absorb shock. Underpronators have a rigid foot with little to no inward motion during heel strike to toe-off, which results in decreased shock absorption. Underpronators bear weight only on the outer edge of the foot. This causes excessive wear along the entire lateral side of the shoe to the forefoot, not just at the heel. Cushion shoes are also recommended for midfoot and forefoot strikers or normal pronators with rigid feet.

Simple Shoe Test
Now that you are familiar with some general shoe terminology, you are ready to go out and test shoes. The photos show a good general rigidity test for all shoe types and brands and is also a good way to check the stability of your old or worn out shoes.

*Get Moving provides general information only. This information should not be substituted for a doctor’s advice. Always consult your physician before beginning any new exercise or treatment.