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How to Buy Running Shoes aka Sneakers
Types of Feet: Flat or Fallen Arches, High Arches or Normal
You will know if you have flat feet or fallen arches, if you do not see an arch. The bottom of your foot, from your toes to your heel, is looks flat. Your footprint will look like a foot-shaped blnot show an arch. You will not see an inward curve from your big toe to your heel.
If you're flat-footed, you are probably an overpronator, meaning that your feet roll inward when you run or walk.
You will need a running shoe to maintain your stability. Look for "motion control" and "stability" when buying running shoes. In addition to motion-control shoes, some flat-footed runners also need to wear orthotics (custom-made shoe inserts that correct foot issues).
High Arches:
To determine if you have high arches look for a high and definite arch on your foot. Your footprint will curve inward, making the middle part of your foot look very skinny. When you push your hand against the bottom of your foot, your arch will stay rigid.
If you have high arches, you probably supinate or underpronate, meaning that your feet roll outward when you run.
You should look for flexible shoes with a soft midsole that absorbs shock. When buying running shoes, look for options with the words "flexible" or "cushioned" included in their descriptions.
Normal Arches:
If your foot or footprint doesn't look flat footed or high arched, you most likely have a normal arches. Your footprint will have a noticeable curve inward, but not by more than 3/4 of an inch.
As long as you pick a shoe that doesn't counteract your foot type, you shouldn't encounter any problems. This is the most common type of foot, and it's also the least susceptible to injury provided it's outfitted with proper footwear.
If you have normal feet, you can choose from a wide variety of running shoes, including ones made for neutral runners or those with slightly flat-footed or high-arched feet. Don't pick running shoes that have a lot of stability or motion control.
Reebok Women's RBK Zone II Running Shoe
- Forefoot flex grooves for flexibility
- DMX Foam for cushioning
- Multi-surface outsole for traction
- Low-cut design for added mobility
Saucony Women's ProGrid Triumph 5 Running Shoe
- Full-length ProGrid technology for maximum comfort and performance
- SSL EVA Midsole
- Arch Lock to provide snug midfoot fit
Adidas Women's a3 Gigaride Cushion Running shoe
- Seam-free fit technology
- Structured midsole for optimal stability and platform Inlay: Molded EVA sockliner Lining: Synthetic
- Carbon outsole for durability
Merrell Chameleon Arc Gore Tex XCR (Women's) - Canteen
This low-cut is as adaptable to weather conditions as it is to a broad range of outdoor pursuits, thanks to waterproof, highly breathable Gore-Tex gasket construction with extended comfort range. Merrell In-Board footframe with Air Cushion keeps the profile low while Q-Form midsole promotes a biomechanically efficient gait. Vibram Chameleon Arc sole combines ribs, Octogrip tread and crescent lugs for multi-directional grip and stability. GORE-TEX gasket construction. Waterproof suede leather upper. GORE-TEX XCR fabric lining. Breathable padded tongue. Injection molded TPU external counter. Injection molded TPU instep stability arm. Protective molded rubber rand. Protective molded rubber toe bumper. 4.5mm anatomical footbed. In-Board compression molded EVA footframe with grade 1 tapered nylon insole molded to bottom. Q-Form triple density compression molded EVA footframe. Air Cushion midsole. 4mm sole lug depth. Vibram Chameleon Arc sole/TC5+ rubber. Available Colors: Pewter/Black, Canteen.

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