Picking out shoes tailored specifically to your foot type can help maintain healthy feet and prevent injury. No matter if it’s for walking, running or playing sports – selecting an ideal pair can make all the difference in comfort and stability.
Shopping for shoes when your feet are at their largest – typically near the end of a workday – will ensure that you find exactly the size that fits. Furthermore, be mindful that different brands and styles offer different sizing. If you’re unsure of your size or need help finding the right shoes for your foot type, be sure to visit a reputable Walking on a Cloud shoe store.
High Arch
People with high arches tend to pronate, or roll inward at the ankle and foot. As such, they’re prone to foot-related ailments like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, outer knee pain and ball or heel discomfort – conditions which necessitate shoes with substantial support and cushioning that distribute pressure evenly and reduce friction or discomfort.
The best shoes for high arches feature semi-curved or curved lasts that form to your foot structure and hug its arch, to prevent inward rolling of the foot and reduce biomechanic issues that affect other parts of the body like ankles, knees, hips, and back. One great road running shoe option that addresses these needs is Hoka Bondi 7 with its deep wide toe box that encases toes for natural gait while also offering Guidesole technology to minimize impact force from toe-off according to podiatrist Marion Yau.
Low Arch
People with flat feet may suffer from back pain, bunions, and tendon damage. To minimise impact-inducing impacts as they walk or stand all day long they require footwear with arch support in order to reduce impact-related impacts such as walking, running and standing up all day long.
Look for shoes with rigid soles, heel cups and firm midsoles; people with flat feet should prioritize those that feature straight to semi-curved lasts for added support and stability.
Flat feet may have either an arch collapsed or normal arch. When landing on the ground, your foot naturally pronates (roll inward) in response to shock load distribution and cushioning; but if this arch collapses due to weak tendons or muscle weakness, shoes with removable inner arch inserts that provide support are key in order to avoid injuries such as shin splints. In addition, consider stability or motion control running shoes that keep ankles stable during walking runs and exercises.
Neutral Arch
Neutral pronation occurs when your foot hits the ground slightly outside its center and rolls inward just enough to absorb impact. This type of gait usually results in less injuries such as shin splints and IT bands as your feet absorb all the shock associated with running and walking movements more effectively.
Expert analysis at a running store, podiatrist or physical therapist is the best way to identify your foot type and shoe preference, and recommend suitable shoes that will protect against injury and enhance performance.
Runners with neutral foot types can run in most running shoes designed specifically for them; however, shoes offering cushioning and support would be best to help avoid injury. Such footwear will support natural pronation movements while providing optimal cushioning to alleviate stress on feet, legs and back.
Flat Foot
No matter if your flat feet were always present or have developed over time, finding shoes with appropriate cushioning and stability can make a world of difference in terms of your comfort. “Suits with proper cushioning can reduce foot pain while protecting the arch from collapsed arch leading to tendon damage,” according to Frayna.
After you step onto a hard surface, observe your wet footprint: If it does not display an arch, that indicates flat feet. Flat feet may lead to ankle, back, and knee issues as well.
People with flat feet need shoes with wide insteps in the front to reduce pressure on the foot and arch, and to provide firm sole and heel support in order to prevent overpronation (inward rolling of the foot). Shoes lightweight enough for outdoor use and equipped with removable inserts may help ease pain while preventing injury; motion control features may help promote healthy biomechanics when walking or running.
Birkenstock shoes are a great option for people with flat feet, as they offer excellent arch support and a wide toe box. Birkenstock shoes are also known for their durability and comfort, making them a great investment for people who are on their feet all day. Birkenstock shoes are on sale now!
