Running is fun with running shoes

Running shoes differ from other shoes in that they have a stronger heel wedge. This is available to support the rolling movement while running. Running shoes are therefore primarily used for cushioning and supporting the feet during stance and push-off movements when jogging or running. Furthermore, with the help of running shoes, misalignments such as overpronation (inward rotation of the foot) or supination (outward rotation of the foot) are compensated for. Check paulfootwear for example products of running shoes.

The first special shoes for runners were developed in the late 1960s by a German sports shoemaker and an athletics trainer from New Zealand. The so-called “Roadrunner” was created in the process. Ultimately, the newly developed running shoe came on the market in 1970 and development took its course. In today’s market there are mainly running shoes from the following manufacturers:

• Asics
• Nike
• Adidas
• Solomon
• Brooks
• New Balance

Running shoes that are waterproof are currently not only used over longer distances but are also used for walking, jogging, Nordic walking and athletics. For the latter, running shoes with spikes are usually used. Due to the diverse areas in which running shoes can be used, they are divided into different categories. The respective categories are based on the requirements of the runner and the area of ​​application in which the run is made, such as on asphalt. This results in the following categories, among others:

• Stability shoes or stable shoes
• Neutral shoes
• Motion control shoes
• Cushioning shoes
• Cross-country running shoes or trail shoes
• Competition shoes
• Lightweight trainer
• Foot trainer or natural running shoe

Tip! In addition to the normal running shoes, there are also special running shoes for the winter. Winter running shoes have better moisture protection, higher cushioning, good breathability and very good grip on the outsole. If it is slippery and smooth outside, then running shoes with spikes are suitable for running. So nothing stands in the way of running on asphalt even in winter.

The construction of running shoes

The production of running shoes is very complex because the shoe consists of a large number of elements, all of which have to be linked and sewn together with high quality. Also the running shoes comparison winner from the running shoes test consist of the following basic elements:

• Afford
• Upper material
• Heel cup
• Midsole
• Pronation support
• Damping systems
• Outsole
• Insoles

The last is a molded piece made of wood or plastic that is modeled on the human foot. The last plays an important role in the manufacture of a running shoe because this shaped piece determines the height, width and length and thus the fit of the running shoes. The rolling behavior of the running shoe is determined by the curvature of the last. There are straight, curved and semi-curved strips that have different advantages and disadvantages. Mostly synthetic materials are used
for the upper material. Durable leather, nylon, mesh materials or microfiberare common upper materials for running shoes. It is important that the upper material of the running shoes is waterproof, breathable, tear-resistant and stretchable.

Tip! The heel cup ensures the right grip in the running shoes. It is made of sturdy materials such as PVC or nylon.

The midsole is the heart of every running shoe because it is the support surface for the foot and much to the rolling contributes. In most running shoes, the midsole is made from ethylene vinyl acetate. Ethylene vinyl acetate is a foam in which small air bubbles are trapped. As a result, the midsole already offers good cushioning while running.
Protation supports are designed to prevent the foot from buckling inward during running training. Protation supports are attached to the midsole and are located on the inside of the shoe at the height of the ankle.
Gas cushions, gel cushions and air cushions are typical cushioning systems in shoes for runners. They are incorporated in the front and rear areas of the midsole and are used to cushion the heel and forefoot.
The outsole of running shoes is made of both hard rubber and carbon rubber. It should protect against pointed and sharp objects. Furthermore, the profile of the outsole is very robust and grippy and adapted accordingly depending on the running shoe category.
In order to improve the fit of running shoes, there are often insoles in the running shoes. These are used to create a better contact between the midsole and the foot.