Choose the right running shoe

Choosing the right running shoe for you...

Low arched feet and Overpronate, look for a Motion-Control shoe. Motion control shoes prevent your foot from rolling in too far, have a straight shape that gives maximum support for the inside of the foot and are the most control-oriented running shoes.

High-arched feet and Underpronate, look for a Cushioned shoe. Cushioned shoes allow your feet to roll inward (absorbing shock), have a curved shape to encourage foot motion and have the softest midsole with the least medial support.

Normal arches and pronate normally, look for a Stability shoe. Stability shoes offer a compromise between motion control shoes and cushioned shoes. They often have a semi-curved shape and don't control foot motion as strictly as motion-control shoes.

Selecting cross training shoes

Cross-trainers are nearly an all-purpose sport shoe. They are a good choice for you if you enjoy participating in a variety of sports or varying your workout routine. Cross trainers are purposely designed for all types of rapid movement, either front to back or side to side.

Benefits of Cross-Training Shoes

• They are the most versatile athletic shoes available
• Cross-training shoes meet the basic comfort, cushioning, stability, and durability requirements of many popular sports and activities
• They are an economical choice. Cross-trainers allow you to buy a single pair of athletic shoes for a variety of uses.

Drawbacks of Cross-Training Shoes

• Cross-training shoes are not recommended for anyone on a regular running program
• Cross-trainers do not offer enough cushioning and flexibility for runners
• They are heavier than typical running shoes

Key Features of Cross-Training Shoes

Cross training shoes are designed to meet the requirements of a variety of activities. The outsoles (bottom) of cross-training shoes are wide and stable to provide for lateral (side-to-side) support and stability. Most cross-trainers have fairly durable outsoles to allow them to go from the gym to the street or tennis court. Choose cross trainers with a non marking sole if you are planning on using them on courts or in the gym.

Cross-training shoes offer a moderate amount of cushioning, primarily at the heel and forefoot of the shoe. Cushioning is usually fairly durable and dense, which enhances the shoe's overall stability.

Many cross-training shoes have leather uppers, which are designed to provide more ankle support. All-leather cross trainers provide greater stability but are less breathable than those that feature mesh as well. It is also important to look for secure lacing systems to keep the foot stable and secure during lateral movements.

Selecting Basketball shoes

Whether you are a serious or a recreational player basketball shoes must offer durability, support, stability, flexibility and shock absorption to handle the demands of the game. The quick stops and starts and side-to-side movements involved with basketball make these features absolutely essential when choosing your playing shoes.

For the best results you need to choose the shoe that's right for you and your playing style.

What Kind of Player Are You?

Power player - Power players will want shoes which focus on cushioning and stability. These benefits will add weight to the shoe.

All-around player - Look for shoes with moderate ankle support and cushioning. There are many shoes to choose from. Almost all types are fairly lightweight.

Fast player - Choose a lightweight shoe that offers moderate support, cushioning and flexibility

The Shoe

There are three types of shoe cuts and depending on your personal playing style and what you feel most comfortable in, will determine which style is best.

• High tops have the most ankle support but also can restrict movement. Power players and all round players usually prefer this stability.
• Mid Tops have less movement restriction than high-tops and can be more comfortable. These are the most commonly used basketball shoes.
• Low Tops are the lightest but don't have any ankle support. These are useful for players who depend on speed during a game.

Many basketball shoes are combination leather and other materials which offer the benefit of being lighter in weight, more breathable and with added flexibility whilst still having features such as stability and durability. Quality basketball shoes have rubber soles and reinforced stitching around the toes. A good lacing system will keep the foot nice and secure in the shoe offering the support for sudden movements, frequent side to side movements and quick turns.