A running shoe mainly supports the stability and cushioning of the rolling movement of the foot during running sports through a special texture. In doing so, it should act as a health protection and provide comfort. The running shoe is also worn in appealing designs as a casual sporty leisure shoe.
What is a running shoe?
A running shoe mainly supports the stability and cushioning of the rolling movement of the foot during running sports through a special texture. The running shoe is a sports shoe designed according to the needs, which should ensure the most comfortable guidance and support of the foot, especially in the rolling phase. The sports shoe is therefore made to fit a wide variety of running disciplines and ground conditions. In particular, the sensitive heel area of the foot is also protected by special padding and materials. In addition, various structural modifications and additions to the running shoes provide compensation for foot malpositions (e.g. a flat foot) or overweight. Criteria in the selection of the appropriate running shoe are also the external conditions. These include weather conditions such as rain or snow. The type of ground also represents a difference in load that needs to be compensated for. While, for example, a forest floor can act helpfully as a cushioning support, asphalt or concrete ground presents itself as a problem for possible stress on joints and tendons. Running shoes should therefore be selected according to the occasion. Specifics of body weight, feet and planned frequency of use should be taken into account. Running shoes can therefore be understood as competition shoes, jogging shoes, trail shoes or leisure shoes.
Forms, types and types
Various designs are offered as running shoes, which differ in shape, material, design and type. The basic standard of a running shoe is to support the natural rolling movement during normal running behavior and be comfortable to wear. In addition to the stability function, the weight of the running shoe also plays a role. Running shoes that are primarily assigned to the lightweight category are characterized by a very low weight as well as a flat design. Grippy outsoles and special toe boxes as well as solid uppers and rain-resistant membranes are part of the equipment profile for open terrain. Natural running shoes ensure the most natural running sensation possible due to their lightweight, flat as well as flexible and breathable product style. This type comes closest to barefoot running. Leading manufacturers of running shoes, such as Nike, Asics, Adidas or Puma, produce numerous high-quality sports shoes for the huge running shoe market using innovative technologies. This takes into account a wide variety of running disciplines, ground conditions and personal requirements of runners, as well as changing design preferences.
Structure and function
The ankle and heel must be optimally protected when running, when the foot touches down on the ground with about six times the body weight. The protective function of a running shoe comes into play in several ways. On the inside of the shoe, a support is embedded in the midsole. In addition to the support function at this point, the cushioning properties of the running shoe are intended to reduce the energy that occurs during impact. To this end, manufacturers of brand-name shoes have developed various cushioning systems. One technique is to reduce the force of the impact by inserting a silicone cushion at the center of impact in the rear of the foot. Silicone cushions with a higher elasticity in the front foot area have a supporting effect. An alternative to the same objective by another renowned running shoe manufacturer causes the cushioning by foam and gas-filled plastic shells. In addition, some manufacturers also use various gel versions. The material and shape of soles and midsoles are intended to favorably influence surefootedness and optimal locomotion as well as durability and comfort. The outsole profile and the rubber compound used in the process are adjusting screws for the quality of the outsole. The weight range of the intended user determines the strength level of the midsole. Individual needs of the runner may require replacement of the manufacturer’s insole with an orthopedic insole.In the construction of natural running running shoes, the cushioning and stabilizing elements are neglected according to type. In view of the various designs of running shoes and different needs, professional advice should be given before buying running shoes. In this context, a treadmill analysis can be used as a selection aid to precisely determine personal requirements.
Medical and health benefits
Running is an endurance sport with positive effects on health. An important prerequisite for healthy running is suitable running shoes. First of all, the sports shoe must fit. If the shoe turns out too big, this can cause insufficient support. If shoes are chosen that are too small, they will press uncomfortably on the foot. The wrong shoe size can also lead to blisters or problems with the Achilles tendon. As a rule, the running shoe should be a half to a whole size larger than the normal shoe. Lack of lateral support can cause the foot to tip away while running, causing pain in the knee. In extreme cases, the ankle can also twist painfully. A lack of grip on the sole profile can lead to slipping and falling, depending on the weather and ground conditions. Shoes that are too worn lose protective functionality. If training is done regularly, running shoes should be replaced with new ones every year. At least two pairs of running shoes should be available, ideally, for constant use, because after running training shoes show deformation. The return to the previous shape takes some time. During this time, other running shoes can be used. Here, the longer the running time, the more important the proper use of running shoes. Those who start jogging slowly do not need a complete set of running shoes from the start. Those who defy wind and weather while running and are not afraid of heavy rain should buy special running shoes with wetness protection. Insufficient cushioning and poor support can lead to discomfort and damage to ligaments, tendons and joints. The knee joint is often affected. Meniscus damage is not uncommon, especially with insufficient cushioning and increased body weight. The hip is often also affected by occurring complaints. If an ankle is already unstable, special protective measures must be taken by selecting special running shoes. Unrecognized foot malpositions or incorrect running shoes can also cause a heel spur over a longer period of time. This is a painful inflammation of the thorn-shaped heel outgrowth. Orthopedic insoles for the running shoe can counteract this problem.
