The Running Shoes

The Best Waterproof Running Shoes

Many runners, at all levels, will take considerable time to find the correct running shoes. They will invest time and money to get perfect fit, appearance and comfort but may leave one factor out that can make a difference. In one word, this factor is “waterproof.”

But failing to get waterproof running shoes is more a function of the buyer not taking time to find the shoe, rather than being no shoes available. The best of waterproof shoes can keep the runner’s feet warm and dry, even in very wet weather. Professional runners will find this extra benefit worth almost any extra cost, since these runners live because they run. Dry, comfortable feet may be just the edge the pro needs to win. While most triathlon performers have probably already settled on top triathlon shoes that works for them, triathlon shoes may need to be waterproof as well (not for the swimming part) but because these great athletes can sometimes run in less than ideal conditions.

Best Options

When an individual begins looking for good running apparel and equipment, most remember that the shoes are the most critical part of the entire picture. It may be good to keep weather/wet conditions in mind when shopping for the right running shoe.

Among the better options for waterproof running shoes is Gear Zone, which also offers cleaning supplies and waterproofing systems, climbing gear and much, much more. Many runners and outdoor enthusiasts find that buying a great pair of shoes from a company leads them to other products that company offers. This alone may save the individual a lot of time and money.

Judging by sales and street buzz, The North Face Women’s great running shoe “Hedgehog Xcr, is one of the best shoes around. This model is designed for women, is completely waterproof and has a breathing membrane to keep the foot comfortable. Those interested in the details of leading-edge technology may want to look into this shoe even further.

Another option for the serious runner is Merrell Chameleon and its shoe aimed at versatility and speed. The attention to detail from the designer and manufacturer is amazing, with built-in protective bumpers, mesh upper for letting the foot breath and so on.

Plan before you buy and include “waterproof” in the thought process. It will payoff with comfort and better performance. And that is what every runner is interested in, amateur and professional alike.

By Adam Peters
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running shoes

From running barefoot to running in shoes that cost a small fortune…. running sure has come a long way. Today there is such a wide range of shoes available, it takes mental gymnastics to decide which shoe would be right for you!

It was in the last century that we saw so many changes in running shoes. In the beginning of the century, running shoes were simple rubber-soled plimsolls. Today they are air- cushioned, sometimes filled with gel capsules. So they look good, feel good and add up to better performance.

The first running shoes, also called “keds”, were a result of the invention of vulcanized rubber. For the first time, people could wear shoes that they could actually play a sport in. They were light, comfortable and didn’t make a sound when you walked. That’s how they got the name “sneakers”.

Over 100 years ago, J.W. Foster and Sons of England (now known as Reebok) were the first to introduce shoes specially meant for running with spikes in them. Its owner, Joseph William Foster wanted to make a shoe that would encourage the sport of running. In 1925, a German named Adolph Dassler made shoes with hand-forged spikes. It was so specialized, there were specific models for specific distances. The material was hi-tech and light. These shoes were worn by the leading runner of the time, Jesse Owens. Adolph Dassler’s company later split into Adidas and Puma, both leading sports shoe manufacturers today.

Research in running shoes forged ahead and the need for speed and comfort produced even better footwear. Three types of running styles were found. In the neutral style, the heels hit the ground, while the foot goes in a straight line as it moves forward. In the Pronation style, the heel hits the ground, while the foot moves to the inside as it goes forward. The Supernation style was a little different where the heel hits the ground and the outside of the foot moves forward. Shoes were made to fit these varied styles and athletes now had the option of having shoes custom-made.

One of the most recent inventions is the cushioning system. It was found that foam, silicon, and air gel absorb shock. An even better product is ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA); a substance that has millions of tiny air bubbles that cushion and absorb shock. Some of these inventions were offshoots of the space research done to make clothing and footwear for astronauts!

To find the perfect shoe, your biomechanical needs should be studied. A ‘wet test’, is taken – that is, the shape of your foot on a dry floor or piece of paper. This would reveal whether your feet are flat, normal or highly arched. Based on a few more tests, the right shoes are found. This process has benefited athletes by helping in achieving better speeds, causing fewer foot injuries and longer career spans.

By Alison Cole

running shoes

Buying running shoes is about much more than looking for the best price. You need to find the right type of shoe to fit your running style. You first need to identify your foot type from these three basic types:

Flat Foot – Pronated

When running, your foot lands on the outside of the heel and rolls inward.
A large area of your foot touches the ground.
Many types of running over-use injuries are associated with this foot type.
Over 1/2 of the population has this foot type.

High-Arched Foot – Supinated

The foot does not roll inward (pronate).
A large area of the arch of your foot does not touch the ground.

Neutral – Ideal Foot

Your foot lands on the outside of your heel and rolls slightly inward.
This is the ideal running style to absorb shock.
Only a very small percent of the population has this foot type.

You can get a good idea of your foot type by using the “wet test”. To do this:

Remove your shoes and socks and get into your bare feet.
Get the bottom of your foot wet. Step into a bucket of water or something.
Step on a surface that will show the imprint of your foot. A sidewalk, light-colored driveway or construction paper works well.
Compare your imprint to the descriptions below to determine your foot type and best shoe for that type.

Flat Foot – Pronated – Look for shoes with a straight or semi-curved shape with max support for the inside of the foot. They might be identified as motion control or stability shoes.

High-Arched Foot – Supinated – Look for shoes with a curved fit and a lighter outsole. They might be identified as cushioned shoes with a lot of flexibility.

Neutral – Ideal Foot - Look for shoes with a straight fit and moderate cushioning.

After determining your foot type, look for shoes that match the descriptions above.

There are a number of places online to buy running shoes and many great deals to be found. Just make sure that you are purchasing a pair that fits your foot type properly.

By Charles Dee

running shoes