In one of the largest studies done to date, Knapik, et al., 1 divided 1,400 male and female Marine Corps recruits into two groups: an experimental group in which running shoe recommendation was based on arch height, and a control group that wore neutral stability running shoes regardless of arch height. Because of the additional midsole material, motion-control sneakers are extremely stiff. In contrast, motion-control sneakers (C) are very straight and are strongly reinforced throughout the midfoot with extra-thick midsole material. They are straighter and have slightly more midsole material reinforced beneath the arch. Stability sneakers (B) are made for individuals with neutral foot types. The reduced midsole material in the midfoot gives the shoe an hourglass appearance when viewed from below. They are slightly curved to match the shape of the typical high-arched foot and possess fl exible midsoles with signifi cantly less bulk in the midfoot region (X). Cushion running shoes (A) are made for individuals with high arches.

Bottom view of the three basic types of running shoes. Surprisingly, despite the fact that consumers have spent billions of dollars for just the right running shoe, there is conflicting evidence suggesting the prescription of running shoes based on arch height is clinically justified.Īrch Height, Shoe Type and Injury Rates Fig. To fit runners with neutral feet, stability running shoes are made with semi-curved lasts and only a moderate amount of midsole cushioning.įor more than 30 years, running shoe manufacturers have suggested that prescribing running shoes based on arch height will reduce injury rates and increase comfort. In order to improve shock absorption, the midsoles in cushion running shoes are significantly softer. On the other side of the spectrum, cushion running shoes are made for runners with high arches and are manufactured with a curve-lasted shape designed to fit the typical high-arched foot. 1) To control the excessive pronation present in low-arched individuals, motion-control running shoes have added midsole material beneath the center of the arch. Because runners with different arch heights are prone to different injuries, running shoe manufacturers have developed motion-control, stability and cushion running shoes for low-, neutral- and high-arched runners, respectively.

High arch feet shoes