Running Shoes For Underpronators

Runners who underpronate need this problem corrected and a particular running shoe can do this. Uncorrected underpronation cause the runner injuries and not running to their potential. This is because underpronation is not an efficient running action and is unnatural. Here we explain underpronation, those who are likely to do it and the running shoes needed to solve the problem.

How the runner underpronates

Pronation is the rotation of the foot inwards as the weight travels to the front of the foot when the foot strikes the ground during running. Pronation is essential to running and aides the runner, however underpronation is when the foot doesn't rotate inward enough and the weight just transfers along the outside if the foot.

This cause the lift off to come from the small toes instead of the middle of the foot. The lack of rotation or pronation means it takes more effort to the run the same distance than a correctly pronating runner. They're also susceptible to more injuries as the same part of the foot unnaturally takes the strain.

Underpronating runners tend to have high arched feet

The main cause of underpronation is having a high arch. Runners with this foot type will naturally underpronate. The lack of an arch causes the weight to travel along the outside of the foot without rotating inward. A typical footprint of someone with a high arch is like that on the right.

There is barely any of the foot touching the ground in the toward the outer edge at the middle of the foot. The weight is encouraged to travel along this edge as you run which can lead to injuries with overuse on certain parts of the foot and lower leg. However, there is a particular running shoe that can help correct this problem.

They need cushioned running shoes

Cushioned running shoes are designed for runners with high arches and underpronators. The underpronation is corrected by having a more flexible sole which promotes the little rotation that's there to create a more efficient running action.

As the name suggests there is also more cushioning in the sole and upper to support the foot as the weight tries to stay on the outer edge. This combined with the flexible sole leads to the runner having a more natural action that will lead to better running times and distances. For these reasons cushioned running shoes are essential.

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