If you're buying running shoes for the first time, you might be a bit intimidated by the different kinds and types of running shoes that are available. Finding the right pair of running shoes is not as hard as you'd think. When you're done with your research, you can use your 6pm.com coupon to purchase the exact running shoes you want. That way, you can save your feet plenty of trouble with a stylish and functional pair of running shoes.Types Of Running Shoes
Believe it or not, all running shoes are not created equal. For starters, there are several types of running shoes currently available:
Trainers - These are everyday running shoes most people tend to buy. Trainers offer maximum cushioning and there are lightweight versions that work well for neutral runners.
Cross Trainers - With additional support for rolling and a wider surface area, these shoes offer greater control for both stop-and-go and lateral movement.
Trail Runners - These shoes are similar to cross trainers, but they are designed for minimal slip on surfaces in all weather conditions. Trail runners also provide extra support for uneven surfaces.
Racing Shoes - Built purely for speed, these shoes feature lightweight construction. Some racing shoes feature spikes for use on soft surfaces.
Minimalist Running Shoes – Also known as "barefoot" shoes, this footwear pushes the boundaries in regards to shoe design. These shoes serve as little more than a glove for your foot, offering added protection for your feet while best replicating the feeling of running barefoot.
Kinds of Running Shoes
With those descriptions out of the way, there's still plenty to look at when it comes to running shoes. The kind of running shoe you'll end up with depends largely on how you run, or to be more precise, how your feet move as you run. Your feet naturally roll inward and outward to a small degree during normal movement – something to keep in mind when shopping for a new pair.
There are a few terms you should become familiar with: pronation and supination:
There are a few terms you should become familiar with: pronation and supination:
Pronation is the natural inward movement of the foot as it strikes the ground. During pronation, the foot transitions from being rigid to being flexible in preparation for foot strike, which helps on uneven terrain. The arch also flattens out to a small degree upon impact.
Supination is the natural outward movement of the foot, as it transitions from flexibility to rigidity, as it's pushed away from the ground.
Most people have a small, natural amount of pronation and supination, resulting in a neutral stride that features near-perfect balance. Most shoes change the nature of the wearer's stride, causing a pronounced amount of pronation or supination. Buyers can purchase specific kinds of running shoes that take care of feet issues:
Motion control shoes offer a number of features to control over-pronation and also support flat feet, a condition where the bottom of the foot, from the toes to the heel, is completely flat. A number of running shoes that aim for motion control use dual density midsoles, foot bridges and roll bars to provide medial support where needed.
Stability shoes, as the name implies, offer greater stability for runners with normal to moderately flat arches, as well as those with mild to moderate over-pronation.
Cushioned shoes feature extra cushioning and additional shock absorption. These shoes work best for those who have a normal or high arch.
The best way to find out how your feet behave is with a wet foot test. Simply wet the bottom of your feet and step on a newspaper or piece of paper. The resulting footprint should tell you whether your foot is naturally pronated, supinated or neutral. To find out more about this test and how to analyze the results, you can check out this guide from Running Shoes Guru.
A good pair of running shoes is paramount for trouble-free exercise and play, especially if you love running for long distances or over rough terrain. Keep the above info in mind the next time you see a nice pair at your nearest shoe store. If you need any help, you should contact a shoe store that specializes in selling these types of shoes. Your coach or personal trainer might also be a good source of information about your next pair of running shoes.
As the author of numerous articles on athletic apparel, Mack Collins knows what it takes to look and feel good while staying healthy. He specializes in guides for a wide variety of athletic footwear, from basketball shoes to running gear. He uses a 6pm.com coupon to get the best deals on his footwear.
