Running Shoe Types and Parts Defined

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Outsole

The outsole is the bottom part of the running shoe that includes tread, flexibility and durability. The outsole is usually made of blown rubber or carbon rubber. Blown rubber is not as durable as carbon rubber.

Sockliner: Also called the insole. This is the thin layer of foam where your foot sits in the shoe.

Heel to toe drop: The difference between the heel height and the forefoot height.

Zero drop: A description meaning that the heel and ball of foot are at the same height from ground.

More: Shoes for Mud Running

Stride and Shoe Types

Pronation: An inward roll of the foot during a runner's footstrike.

Supination: An outward roll of the foot during a runner's footstrike.

Cushioning: A type of shoe designed for runners who supinate (roll outward).

Motion Control: A type of shoe designed for runners who over pronate (roll inward).

Stability: A type of shoe designed for neutral runners who do not necessarily pronate or supinate.

Maximalist: A type of running shoe designed for runners who desire high levels of cushioning and support in their running shoe.

Minimalist: A type of running shoe designed for runners who desire barefoot or more natural running.

Racing Flat or Flat: A type of running shoe designed for runners who desire a lightweight shoe and minimal cushioning.

More: Your Guide to the Right Running Shoe

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