What Can Your Shoes Reveal About Your Running?

As a runner, it's important to understand your running pattern, as it can affect your performance and prevent injuries. One way to gain insight into your running pattern is by analysing your shoes. Your shoes can provide valuable information about your foot mechanics and running form, which can help you choose the right type of shoe and improve your overall running experience.

Understanding Foot Mechanics

Before we dive into analysing shoes, it's important to understand the basics of foot mechanics. Our feet have three main parts: the heel (hind foot), the arch (mid foot), and the ball of the foot (fore foot).

As we run, our feet naturally pronate (roll inward) and supinate (roll outward) to absorb shock and adapt to the terrain. Understanding your foot mechanics can help you identify potential issues and choose the right type of shoe.

Analysing Your Shoes

Your shoes can reveal a lot about your running pattern. Take a close look at the soles and the wear patterns on the shoe.

If the wear is even, it means you have a neutral gait.

If the wear is more pronounced on the inside of the sole, you may overpronate.

If the wear is more pronounced on the outside of the sole, you may supinate.

If the wear is focused on the forefoot, you may be a forefoot striker, whereas if it's focused on the heel, you may be a heel striker.

Using Your Shoe Analysis to Improve Your Running

Once you've analyzed your shoes, you can use this information to improve your running. For example, if you overpronate, you may benefit from shoes with more stability or motion control. If you supinate, you may benefit from shoes with more cushioning. If you're a forefoot striker, you may benefit from shoes with a lower heel-to-toe drop, whereas if you're a heel striker, you may benefit from shoes with more cushioning in the heel. Your physio can help you improve your run with specific running pattern correction exercises.

Analysing your shoes is a simple yet effective way to gain insight into your running pattern. By understanding your foot mechanics and choosing the right type of shoe, you can improve your running performance and reduce your risk of injury.

Don't be afraid to seek advice from a professional shoe fitter or podiatrist if you need further guidance on finding the right shoe for your needs.