Finding a comfortable shoe can prove to be a difficult task. With so many options available, it’s difficult to determine which will fit your foot the best. Neglecting to wear shoes designed for your needs can lead to a variety of problems and injury. One way to find the right fit is to talk with a salesperson at a running specialty store. Another way is to look at your footprints after walking in the sand, concrete, paper with wet feet.
Foot shape is generally classified into three types:
Low/Flat Arch
People with a low or flat arch will see more of their inside arch in the sand. The foot will look like a foot-shaped blob. They need a shoe with more support that’s designed for stability and motion control to help correct for overpronation. Overpronation means that the foot rolls inward during each step. Orthotics which are custom-made shoe inserts are sometimes needed.
High Arch
People with high arches will notice a high and definite arch on the foot. The footprint test will show a large inward curve on the inside of the foot. People with high arches usually supinate or underpronate. This means your foot rolls outwards during each step. The perfect running shoe will have a soft midsole that absorbs shock. Look for shoes that are termed “flexible” or “cushioned” in their descriptions.
Neutral arches
People with normal arches will see a noticeable curve inward from the toe to the heel, but will have full appearance to their foot. When picking a running shoe, people with neutral arches have the largest selection of shoes. Shoes listed for neutral arches or even slightly flat-footed or high-arched feet should be fine. Don’t pick a running shoe that has a lot of stability or motion control as these shoes are not meant for neutral arches.