Running Online

I. Know the different types of shoes:

1. Motion-Control Shoes:

• Motion-control shoes are the most rigid, control-oriented running shoes. Designed to limit overpronation (or slow the rate at which a runner overpronates), motion-control shoes are generally heavy but very durable. They may include features such as a medial post (for pronation control), a polyurethane midsole (for midsole durability) and a carbon rubber outsole (for outsole durability). Many are built on a straight last, which offers stability and maximum medial support.

• You should buy these shoes if: you are an overpronator who needs control features and places a premium on durability. Or: if you wear orthotics and want a firm midsole and deep heel counter. Or: if you are a heavy runner who needs extra durability and control. Runners with flat feet often do best in motion-control shoes.

2. Stability Shoes:

• Stability shoes offer a good blend of cushioning, medial support and durability. To provide stability, these shoes often have a medial post or dual-density midsoles. They are usually built on a semicurved last.

• You should buy these shoes if: you are a midweight runner who doesn't have any severe motion-control problems and wants a shoe with some medial support and good durability. Runners with normal arches often do fine in stability shoes.

3. Cushioned Shoes:

• Cushioned shoes generally have the softest (or most cushioned) midsoles and the least medial support. They are usually built on a semicurved or curved last to encourage foot motion, which is helpful for underpronators (who have rigid, immobile feet).

• You should buy these shoes if: you are an efficient runner who doesn't overpronate and doesn't need any extra medial support. Runners with high arches often do best in cushioned shoes.

4. Lightweight Training Shoes:

• Lightweight training shoes are lighter versions of standard trainers. Usually built on a semicurved or curved last, lightweight trainers are for fast-paced training or racing. Some lightweight trainers are relatively stable; others are not.

• You should buy these shoes if: you are a quick, efficient runner who wants a light second shoe for fast-paced training. Or: if you want a racing shoe, but want more support and cushioning than you'd get from one of the pure, superlight racers.

5. Trail Shoes:

• Trail shoes offer increased outsole traction, midsoles similar to those of stability shoes and uppers with toe bumpers and reinforced stitching for more durability.

• You should buy these shoes if: you do a lot of off-road running and need shoes with extra traction, more durable uppers and extra protection from stone bruises.