Tag Archives: running shoes

Tips from Brooks: How to Determine Your Own Foot Type

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There are three types of feet. These are the Flat, High-Arch and Neutral types of feet. You can determine this by observing the curve on your foot or stepping your wet foot on a piece of cardboard. Here are some descriptions about the three types of feet, the common running problems associated with each foot type, and the right Brooks running shoes appropriate for them.

High-Arch Feet

If you spot a highly prominent arch on your foot, then you have a high-arch foot.  This is characterized by a distinct inward curvature on the middle section of your feet. The problem with an exceptionally high arched foot is the possibility to underpronate. This is characterized by the feet turning outward when running or even when walking. With a prolonged period of running, the arch can decrease in time, but cause the feet to increase in length.

Runners with high-arch feet should buy Brooks running shoes that are made with extra cushioning materials, especially on the midsoles to serve as shock-absorber. Also, extra flexibility is required to allow the feet to move. Find Brooks Glycerin 7 and Brooks Glycerin 8 when looking for Brooks running shoes at store.

Flat Feet

It is quite easy to spot certain people with flat feet. If you try to observe your foot, you will see a very little arch or you do not see any arch at all. The entire base of your feet is even or straight from the toes to the heels. For runners, the problem with having flat feet is the tendency to overpronate or roll the feet inward when running. This might cause running injuries, if not corrected, such as foot and joint pains.

When buying running shoes for this foot type, you should find Brooks Infiniti 9 and Brooks Addiction 8. These running shoes are under the motion-control running shoes that are appropriate for flat feet. They have enough firmness to make you walk and run without overpronating. Often, you also need orthotic shoes that are custom made to correct flat feet.

Neutral Feet

This is the most favorable foot type. If you inspect your own feet, you will see that you have just enough curves, not as less or large compared to the other foot types. These feet do not experience as many foot problems or injuries than the other types, as long as you equip yourself with the right Brooks running shoe that will not counteract your feet. Often, you need just the right amount of cushioning, stability and control to run swiftly and carefree. Look for neutral running shoes from your favorite shoes store. Brooks have Brooks Infiniti, Brooks Ghost and Brooks Trance recommended for runners with neutral feet.

Running Shoe Cushioning – How Much Do I Need?

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If you have been looking at running shoes lately, you might have seen them described with terms like “moderate cushioning”  or “well-cushioned”. But not all runners realize what cushioning really does for a running shoe, or how much they need for themselves.

The term cushioning doesn’t refer to the softness or plushness of a running shoe. Rather, it applies to how well  the shoe can absorb the shock of impact during a run, and for how long. A shoe with a high level of cushioning should feel better at the end of a long run, as opposed to one with a low amount of cushioning.  Most cushioning (and pronation) features are located in the midsole, which is situated above the outsole and underneath the foot.  Of course, a shoe with more cushioning will be heavier than one with less cushioning.

Let’s look at the different levels of cushioning found in running shoes, and which types or runners benefit from each.

Minimum Cushioning

A shoe built for speed, not durability. A minimum cushioned shoe provides only enough features to protect the feet and body during racing and quick-pace training.  This shoe will not last for too many miles.  Racing flats and performance shoes are examples of shoes having minimal cushioning.

Moderate Cushioning

This is the everyday workhorse running shoe. A  moderate cushioned shoe has a mix of midsole materials with medium-sized cushion devices. It meets the needs of the majority of runners, and works with almost any training regimen and body-frame size. A good choice for both veterans and beginners. Some examples of shoes with medium cushioning are regular (moderate mileage) training shoes , cross country shoes, and trail shoes.

Maximum Cushioning

The Cadillac of running shoes. A maximum cushioned shoe uses the biggest cushioning devices available, as well as durable midsole materials that don’t break down easily. This is the most long-lasting midsole of all. This type of shoe is best for those who are training at high mileage, or for larger-framed runners. Runners with rigid arches and those who supinate should also benefit from a well-cushioned shoe, which will help their feet to absorb the shock of impact more efficiently.

To learn more, please visit Cross Country Running Shoes 101.