Stability Running Shoe
Read on our concise guide on these shoes meant for people who have normally high arched feet.
What is a Stability Running Shoe?
Put simply a stability running shoe is a type of shoe that brings the right balance of cushioning and support (a milder form of motion control). Why? Because runners who are blessed with moderate arches generally do not need pronation control or adjustment.
A stability running shoe is a compromise between a cushioning shoe (also known as neutral) and a very supportive motion control one. Normal arches tend to fall in between the two extremes of flat footedness and extremely high arches. People who have the normal foot type can be very efficient runners.
Should I wear a Stability Running Shoe?
If you are on this page you will most likely do. In fact the majority of all runners should be wearing this type of shoe because most people have moderate arches. Look at the arch of your foot do you think it’s unremarkable? That is a big indicator that you will be needing stability.
Another test is to wet your foot and check to see its imprint. If it looks like a regular imprint then you are all set. Irregular imprints will show either a very flat foot or a foot imprint that will barely have “mass” on the inside medial side.
One last practical way to know if you have a normal arch is by comparing it to your friends. If you just look average then you probably are normal. Lastly, if it never really occurred to you what type of foot you have then you’ll be probably normal again.
Flat footed people will know they are flat footed. High arched runners as well will know very well if they have high arches. This is because they will struggle to find comfortable shoes (that aren’t running shoes).
Wear stability running shoes if you have a normal arch. Very few people with normal arches require anything else.
What are the Benefits of wearing Stability Running Shoes?
- Better injury protection
- More comfortable ride
- Faster running
- Reduced pain
Running shoes is all about wearing the right type. Wearing stiff motion control sneakers will hurt you in the long run. Also neutral shoes may not provide enough support for your perfect levels of pronation (the way the foot rolls upon impact – this motion disperses jarring forces).
Is there a risk if I don’t wear stability running shoes?
The risk of course is injuries like plantar fasciitis, knocking knees, pain on the bones of the feet and even up to your lower back. Short term risk includes runs that will be cut short because of discomfort. Blisters and nagging pain in the knees.
What models do you recommend?
We’ve done the research for you. You will want the following top stability shoes for 2010.
Asics GT 2150
Arguably the most popular stability running shoe the Asics GT 2150 continues to bring the best balance between cushioning and support all at a very agreeable $ 100 USD price point
New Balance MR 1225
A legend among normal arched runners the 1225 is the best shoe for those wanting a lighter pair.
Nike LunarGlide+
The LunarGlide+ is not only a good looking shoe it is a good Value at a street price of around $ 100 USD at well. Given what it can do (it dynamically provides support and cushion when needed) it really is a bargain.
Will a stability running shoe really “stabilize” my feet?
A stability running shoe will “stabilize” your feet, yes. How does it accomplish this? With any given number of elements in the shoe. Common stabilizing features include medial posts which just have enough strength to give you the support you need and great uppers with strengthened lines that make the shoe hug your feet.
A word of warning – Overpronation
A lot of people overestimate their pronation levels. When people first hear about pronation they realize that their heels/foot rolls from outside in (when viewed from behind). This makes them conscious on their next run. It is a common tendency to overdo this motion once you get to know its existence.
Therefore a lot of people feel that they need motion control running shoes to overcome what they think is overpronation. This is one of the most common mistakes a new runner makes. Be sure to check your arch and gait. Give some time on checking out if you really overpronate. Although there are a lot of people who overpronate not everyone does. And picking out shoes for ovepronation will most likely give a very unpleasant running experience both in the short and long term.
