2. Know your gait
Once you know your foot type, you can then determine your gait – how your feet behaves when you run.
There are 3 main types of gait:
Overpronation
Typical for people with low arches, overpronation happens when your heel hits the ground first and then rolls inwards. This results in the inability to stabilize your body when you’re running.
Neutral
Neutral gaits are typical for those who have medium arches, where the middle part of your heel strikes first and then rolls slightly inward. This helps in the slight absorption of shock.
Supination
For those with high arches, supination (also known as underpronation) happens when you strike the ground with the outside of your heel first, and stays on the outside of your foot throughout your entire stride. This results in the inability of your foot to absorb the shock impact.
3. Know your running shoe type
Once you know both your arch type and gait, it’s time to find which running shoes (don't forget socks!) are best suited for you.
- Low Arch & Severe Overpronation
Look for motion control shoes. Motion control shoes are designed to hold your feet firmly in place, which is why they will usually have a stiff heel and a relatively straight shape. These shoes will prevent your feet from rolling too much, giving your feet maximum support for your arch.
- Normal Arch & Slight Overpronation
Look for stability shoes. This will help you to have a good balance of cushioning and support.
- High Arch & Supination
Look for neutral cushioning shoes. This will help to cushion the impact that your foot does not naturally absorb!