Why Different Insoles for Different Activities
Shoes are not just a fashion statement; they are a functional piece of equipment whose purpose is to aid performance and prevent injury. Every sport and activity has shoes specifically made for individuals of that sport/activity. Since events take place on different surfaces and place varying demands on the body, shoes can be adapted to these conditions. It is easy to determine the reasoning behind certain shoes. For example, cleats provide traction and steel toe boots provide protection but let’s examine some other differences in shoe construction.
Shoes vary in their traction, cushioning, height, and flexibility. Manufactures respond the demands of sports and users’ input when making changes to the shoes. Shoes materials vary, but all shoes share the following components: an out-sole which has direct contact with the ground, a sole is the bottom of the shoe, the insole is what the foot touches, the mid sole lies between the outer sole and insole, a heel, and an upper (or vamp) which connects the foot to the shoe. Some, or all, of these components are changed in order to make a shoe that is activity specific. These variations in shoes should not be disregarded and it is important to understand the meaning behind, and purpose of, different shoes.
Running and walking shoes differ in the amount of cushion offered by the mid sole. Due to the high impact, running shoes offers more cushion and a bigger heel. Walking mechanics lead to heel strike when landing, and thus a thicker heel may negatively affect walkers. The materials used in shoe construction affect the weight of the shoe and this is an area of concern for some runners. Runners typically perspire more than walkers and therefore the shoe “uppers” are made of a breathable mesh material. Walking shoes tend to have minimal additional traction, while running shoes have a definitively marked waffle shape. Often times, a trail running shoe will have deeper groves since additional traction is required when running on trails, over tree stumps, on rocks, and similar unstable surfaces. The stability control of walking shoes vary in comparison to the control of a running shoe since the walking shoe typically promotes a neutral foot and a running shoe typically helps prevent excessive pronation (foot rolling in). It is not uncommon for walkers to use running shoes, but runners should not use walking shoes since runners place higher demands on their feet and lower extremities.
Other sports demand certain movements and ability to change direction or position. The shoe type will allow the wearer to adequately respond. Manufactures are aware of the necessary components for the soles and of the ideal amount of stability for the shoes. In order help prevent injury and even to improve performance, the shoes should match the activity. Court shoes are similar in their sole construction because they provide a flat “rubbery” surface for grip and prevent slipping on the court. The cushioning of the mid sole can be thicker for sports such as basketball when compared to racquetball or tennis. Some court athletes prefer a high vamp that will give more support to the ankles and help prevent injury.
Cleats are meant for added traction, but these can be different lengths, sizes, and can vary in number. Compare a soccer cleat to an American football cleat and you will see a toe stud missing from the former. Not having a top stud decreases the likely-hood that the shoe will ’stick’ as the athlete kicks the ball. Different cleat heights are available depending on the playing surface. Some athletes like big cleats for wet conditions and small cleats for artificial turf. The vamp of the cleats will also vary by sport. Soccer players like a tight fit since they want to feel the ball on their foot, while football players are more concerned with protection and traction. Cleats are also used by a range of athletes from golfers to track stars and baseball players. Again the cleat length, cushioning and materials for the soles are going to change so that the athlete is most comfortable and therefore set up for success.
Some sports may allow cross over of shoe wear, but the more specialized the sport, the greater the need for a special shoe. Cyclists require a hard sole and cleat in order to transfer maximum power from their body to the pedal and onto the bike. Skateboarders need grip, a wide sole able to withstand abrasions from the board, and they need to provide protection for the skater. Rock climbers need a “tacky rubbery” sole but the shoe should allow a lot of feel of the rock. Scuba divers and other water sports needs to provide protection and should also be comfortable when wet. Although the shoe will not make the athlete, it is wise to look for activity specific footwear in order to have a decreased chance of injury and increased chance of success.
Just because a shoe is endorsed by your favorite athlete or is being worn by the star player on your team, it does not mean that the shoe is right for you. Shoes are about fit and performance; they are not about looks, brands, and colors. Aside from trying different brands of shoes, various modifications may be made to the shoes so that the person feels better in them. There are many commercially available heel cups that provide additional cushioning and may help prevent injury. Insoles can be purchased to add support, or even replace shoes’ manufactured insoles. Arch supports, foot pads, and ankle braces can be added to match a person’s concerns or medical history. Start by exploring activity specific shoes, try different brands, and make modifications as needed. Shoes are not, by any means, one size fits all.
