Running Shoes for Flat Feet

Running should be made as safe and comfortable as possible for the runner. After all, your feet strike the ground a considerable number of times (approximately 1200 times per mile) during a long run. And with each step, your body has to absorb the force of the impact, which can be up to five times your body weight! If you have flat feet, then you need to compensate for the over-pronation with running shoes for flat feet!

A runner who has flat feet will land in a normal pronated position each time a foot hits the ground. However, immediately after the heel makes contact with the ground, the arch collapses, and the foot begins to roll inward and continues this inward motion through toe-off. This over-pronation can create instability and cause more stress on the body's joints and back.

If you are not sure whether you have flat feet, just check out your old running shoes. If they tend to tilt inward (even slightly), you're an over-pronator, and you need running shoes made just for this foot type.

With so many styles of running shoes available today, you may be confused as to what style of shoe would be appropriate for an over-pronator. If you walk into a shoe store that specializes in athletic footwear, you might find yourself completely overwhelmed with all the choices. If you shop online for running shoes, the brands and styles are unlimited.

Below are a few tips to help you choose the best running shoe, if you have flat feet:

• Look for a good shoe that will properly support your body weight and that has plenty of cushioning to help absorb impact while in motion.
• Motion control shoes are specifically designed for over-pronators and are the best choice for individuals who have flat feet.
• Look for a shoe that has a full-length mid-sole and medial posting to help support the arch.
• For outdoor runners, it's especially important to choose a running shoe that promotes gait stability, thus reducing the risk of injury.
• Make sure that the shoes you pick fit well and feel comfortable on your foot. They should be snug without being too tight. They should not slip up and down on your heel.

Using the above tips, you should be able to find a running shoe that looks good, feels good, and is affordable.