How to Understand the Design of Running Shoes
- 1). Ask about the last, which is what the shoe is shaped around. Slip lasting characterizes lighter shoes; board lasting increases stability. Combination lasting includes the advantages of both methods.
- 2). Know the shapes used in lasting. They are curved or straight; most people find the curved last most comfortable.
- 3). Test flexibility. Most shoes can be made more flexible by bending the shoe across the ball horizontally.
- 4). Check shock absorption, or cushioning. The front (or forefoot) and heel (or rear foot) are the two parts of the shoe that absorb shock.
- 5). Feel the heel counter, where the heel is cradled. It should be stiff, especially in a training shoe.
- 6). Consider the toe box. If your toes are thick or slide forward, look for a shoe with a high toe box.
- 7). Test the shoes' quality. They should not rock or tilt to the sides when placed on a flat surface.
