Shoes Categories

Motion-control shoes are designed to control foot motion and prevent overpronation. Therefore, they have a rigid construction. Many have a firm midsole and are built on a straight last, both of which provide support and help reduce pronation. Motion-control shoes often have technical devices built into inner or arch side of the shoe to stop your foot from rolling in too far. Because motion-control shoes are heavier and more durable than most, they are a good choice for heavy runners.

The name stability creates some confusion as a category of shoes alongside the motion-control category because motion-control shoes are the most stable but provide a bit more cushioning than motion-control shoes do. Cushioning refers to the softness of the midsole. A softer midsole will absorb the force of impact better than a firmer midsole will; it also allows more foot motion.

Stability shoes are usually built on a semicurved last, which allows more foot motion than a straight last does. Several models, however, contain a medial post or an area of dense midsole material along the inner side of the shoe to prevent too much motion.

Cushioned shoes have the softest midsoles and provide the best shock absorption. Sounds ideal for any runner, doesn't it? Cushioning is not for everyone, though. This is partly due to the softness of the midsole, but in addition, cushioned shoes are built on a semi-curved or curved last and most do not contain motion-control devices, allowing your foot to roll inward. Clearly, these are not the shoes for overpronators.

Lightweight training shoes are designed for speed training and/or racing or for runners who simply prefer a lighter shoe. They are built on a semicurved or curved last and weigh less than most training shoes do. Offering less stability and motion control than most other running shoes do, lightweight trainers should not be worn by over-pronators, heavy runners, or runners who seem prone to injury. Some shoes in this category are more stable than others.

Having read about all the categories of shoes, you probably have a pretty good idea which type of shoe you should consider. Runners with no pronation problems who rarely experience injury and who enjoy the feel of a light shoe on their foot can consider lightweight training shoes.