If The Shoe Fits

Is your New Year’s resolution to run a marathon?  Or to walk a block down to the 7-Eleven for your Slurpee instead of driving there?  No matter how ambitious your fitness goals are, make sure you accomplish them in shoes that fit you correctly.  It might not seem important, but choosing the wrong shoe can make you more susceptible to injury. 

The arch of your foot can determine the best shoe for you.  Check how high the arch of your foot is by wetting the bottom of your foot and stepping on a brown paper bag.  Then compare your footprint to the images below to determine your arch type.

Low Arch

If your foot has a low arch, your ankles roll inward, known as pronation. A low arch collapses easily, so it needs more support at the arch.  At the store, ask for a motion control sneaker with extra arch support.

Medium Arch

If your foot has a medium arch and your ankles are straight, you need stability shoes that offer a combination of both arch support and midsole cushioning.

High Arch

If your foot has a high arch, then your ankles turn outward, also known as supination.  Your feet need extra shock absorption at the ball and heel.  Choose a more flexible shoe with extra midsole cushioning.

Technorati tags: running shoes, sneakers, athletic shoes, arch support, New Year’s Resolutions