Running Shoes

Shoe Anatomy Crash Course

Upper

This is simply everything abave the sole of a shoe.

Pay attention to: If the shape of the upper fits your foot shape. Does it chafe anywhere? Is there some binding? If the answer is yes, it most likely doesn't fit you.

Ankle Collar

The top of the shoe where the ankle rests and secures your heel so it doesn't slip out.

Pay attention to: How it feel around the ankle. Does it feel like it's pinching your skin? How does the heel slip?

Saddle

The upper part of the shoe where the laces are to hold your foot securely.

Pay attention to: How it fits your foot. It should be secure yet comfertable and allow for natural motion.

Toebox

The fornt of the shoe where your toes are.

Pay attention to: Can you spread or flex yuor toes both horizantly and vertically without rubbing your toes? if the answer is yes then it's probubly a good fit.

Sole

The sole of the shoe is at the bottom (where the shoe makes contact with the ground).

Pay attention to: Its durability and traction. It should give you stability without adding weight or stiffness.

cushening

This is the foam that provides support and absorbs the shock when you hit the ground.

Pay attention to: What kind of running are you going to do in these shoes? Are they for long distances? Speedwork? or jusr a way to get out of the house?

Pronation

Pronation refers to the way your foot moves (side to side) when you hit the ground during running or walking. This is a big factor when looking for shoes since each shoe is build for different runners. often times companies will lean twords making their shoes to support one of these motions 👇

  • Overpronation

Your foot tends to move to the inner side. Thes could mean that you have a low arch and need extra support for your arch. It could also mean that you have a weak arch and should look into strenthening it.

  • Neutral

your fot is more or less balamced, meaning that it does not lean toward the inside or outside. If this is you, your probably the least likely to have ankle problems (Yay!).

  • Underpronation

Your foot tends to move to the outside.

Common Questions