Running Shoe Selection

Listed here is a roster of running and walking shoes carried at Garry Gribble’s RunningSports. Every shoe on the list is high quality running/walking footwear designed to support, cushion and propel forward (whether running or walking). The “best shoe” on the list is the one that suits a person’s specific foot structure and biomechanical needs. GGRS staff analyzes each person’s foot structure and biomechanical idiosyncrasies and guides them into their “best shoe.” This process involves determining which category of shoe is right for each person and then trying on samples within that category from a variety of brands. Selecting the appropriate category is the key to addressing your specific foot structure and biomechanical needs. Trying several different brands and models within the selected category is the key to finding the shoe that fits and feels the best on each person’s foot.

Neutral Cushioned: Generally, this category is aimed at people with medium to high arches. Your foot strike tends to be neutral or to have a slight roll to the outside (supinate). The higher and more rigid your arch is the more cushioning you tend to need in your shoe. This is because a high rigid arch doesn’t provide the natural shock absorbing qualities provided by a more flexible arch.

Stability: Generally, this category is aimed at people with a medium to low arch. Your foot, upon striking the ground, tends to roll to the inside. These shoes have built in devices to support your arch and help impart a more neutral foot strike. This is desirable because it allows for a more even distribution of the forces you encounter while running or walking. This in turn makes you more injury resistant. These shoes can also be helpful those managing plantar fasciitis.

Motion Control: Generally, this category is for people with flat feet and whose feet tend to roll dramatically to the inside (overpronate) as you go through your stride. These are basically extreme stability shoes. These shoes can be helpful to people managing plantar fasciitis.

Trail Running: Trail shoes are designed for off–road running and walking. They feature: lower profiles to help minimize ankle turns; stiff plates imbedded in the midsole to provide extra stability and foot protection from sharp objects; reinforced toe guards; aggressive outsole lugs for traction; extra durable uppers.

Minimalist: Minimalist shoes simulate barefoot running. They are meant to supplement your running and train the muscles in your feet and lower legs to work more cooperatively and efficiently. They should be used cautiously at first. Walk in them for gradually increasing periods of time before attempting to run. When you do start running, keep it short; start with five minutes or less and increment the time spent in them slowly.