Athletic Shoe Selection
1.
When selecting shoes, an athlete must be aware of
several
factors:
Purpose of shoe
(sport/event).
B. Where shoe is used
(surface/indoor/outdoor).
C. Foot, ankle or leg conditions and past
problems.
D. General shoe construction.
2. TYPE OF
SHOES
A. Cross training shoes -- For people who exercise
a
little in different
areas -- do not replace
specialty
shoes.
B. Running shoes -- Provide heel and midfoot
shock
absorption and
stability for straight ahead
activities,
i.e.
walking or
running.
C. Court shoes -- Basketball, tennis, racquetball, etc.
Provide shock
absorption for jumping and
cutting
movements. They are made for different surfaces,
i.e.
artificial turf
vs.
grass.
D. Special cleat/spike patterns -- Provide support
and
traction on
different surfaces for football,
soccer,
golf and
various track/field events.
Using a shoe for an activity it was not
designed for increases
the chance of injury. Using running shoes for
court sports
increases the risk of ankle sprains because running shoes
offer
little lateral support for cutting. Distance running in
court
shoes may lead to inflammatory and overuse conditions of the
foot,
ankle, leg and knee due to less heel and mid sole
cushioning, a lower heel,
and less heel control than running
shoes. Shoes with cleats (which are
designed to hold the foot
fixed to a surface) may aggravate pre-existing knee
problems.
Consider past or present lower extremity problems when
selecting
a shoe. Shoes with greater cushioning and stability
are
available for heavier people. Some shoes provide more
foot
control and support than others. Shoes with deeper uppers
and
removable foot beds are made for persons wearing
orthotics.
