There's no such thing as the "perfect running shoe". While many runners may be devoted to a particular brand or style, everyone has different needs. Things like your injury history, where you run, how you run, your body weight and bio-mechanics all play into matching you up with your glass slipper. To help you on your quest, here is Part One of Two of my Shoe Jargon series. Learn what these terms mean before heading out to your running shoe store of choice to help you make the best decision for your feet.
- Barefoot: This is exactly what it sounds like. A bare foot with no protection, cover or barrier.
- Bio-mechanical Efficient: Also known as 'Efficient' or 'Neutral', this type of runner does not require any additional stability traits. Runners of this classification typically have a smooth stride and average pronation (no disproportionate outward or inward rolling).
- Blown Rubber: When air is injected into rubber, it is the lightest yet least hard-wearing type of outsole rubber.
- Carbon Rubber: When rubber is solid with the addition of carbon, it creates a hard and more durable outsole.
-Collar: This is typically made from a soft smooth material, the collar should wrap your foot just below the ankle. This should provide you with a snug but not too tight fit.
- Cushioning: This is what portions out the pressure of your foot and softens the impact when you run. It's typical for runners who weigh more to choose firmer cushioning while lighter runners opt for softer soles. However, this is purely preferential.
- Drop: This is the difference between the heel's stack height and your forefoot. It is measured in millimeters. The average drop for a running shoe is 12mm. Minimal shoes typically measure less.
- Dual-Density Midsole: A device used to correct over-pronation. Typically this is a more solid piece of foam on the inner (medial) side of the shoe.
- Eyelets: These are where your shoelaces run through. Not all eyelets have to be utilized. If pressure is felt under a specific pair of eyelets, skipping them when lacing your shoes can provide relief from the discomfort.
- Flex Grooves: Grooves that are molded into the outsole and midsole that make shoes more flexible.
- Flexibility: When a shoe's forefoot can bend easily under the ball of your foot, your foot and leg muscles don't have to work as hard. Without this flexibility, you have to tap into energy stores sooner, leaving you feeling fatigued and vulnerable to injuries like shinsplints.
- Forefoot: This is the sizable front portion of your shoe or foot. Your shoes should be protective of the forefoot since this is the place from which you propel yourself forward. At the same time, your shoes should also be responsive to your stride. If you land on your front of your foot (named a forefoot-striker) you will need the most cushioning in the forefront of your shoes.
- Gait Cycle: This is your body's complete cycle from step to step. This includes your foot's passage through to toe-off. Those who strike first with their heel (heel-strikers) make first contact with the ground on the outer part of their heel. Their foot then moves forward and inward (pronates). Then, the arch of the foot collapses to absorb the shock of hitting the ground. From here the foot moves to the inner and front forefoot and stiffens to push off from the ground (toe-off). A small percentage of runners strike the ground flat-footed or midfoot while even fewer make contact forefoot first.
- Heel Counter: This is a feature found internally and in the back of the shoe. It sits around your heel and typically has a cut notch in the top. This is to help avoid irritation of your Achilles tendon. A perfect fit can only be achieved when your heel sits flush against the stiff backing. This can be done by tapping the foot into the heel, locking your foot into position.
- Insole: Also called a 'sockliner', the insole is an insert, usually foot-shaped and removable, that sits between your foot and the shoe.
- Laces: These are the long strings that keep your foot inside of your shoe. If your laces can be felt, either you've tied your shoes too tight or the tongue or laces are too thin.
- Lateral: The outside edge on your little toe side.
Stay tuned for Part Two for more running shoe jargon from fatnomorenat.com!
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