Schools everywhere are preparing for an exciting season of track and field. But before anyone hits the course, it is essential to have safe, quality running gear so your son or daughter can put their best foot forward.
When shopping for running shoes, remember not all footwear is the same, and what worked last year may not work this time. It is easy to get swayed by all the mad, exciting patterns when shopping, a twisted ankle or banged-up knee won’t look good no matter how cool the shoes look. But getting a proper fit is more than just trying on a pair of shoes. It is also about safety.
A trained salesperson looks at the person’s gait and running biometrics by studying how they walk, run, and land on their feet. They also check where the runner puts their weight on impact and if they roll inward or outward. This information reveals which of the three types of support: neutral, stability or motion-control will provide the best option for safety and success for your athlete.
Each style poses various requirements for support and cushioning and requires someone skilled at making these assessments. Someone who lands on the outside of their heels can transfer weight to the inner edge instead of the ball of the foot. We know this as overpronation, and another runner may land on their heel and roll inward.
Improperly fitting shoes can cause pain or injuries to the knees, hips, back, and feet. When you select well-fitting, quality running shoes, you will help keep your child in the race.
