Shoes for underpronated runner

June 27, 2012 5:53 AM

Does anyone have any running shoe recommendations for a Underpronation / supronation runner?

I just realized after some research that I have a strong supronation when running... a few months ago i had to deal with plantar facilis, and it's probably related to my pronation. So, any recommendations for running shoes for someone with a subpronated gait?
Specific links to amazon or zappos would be great.

and yes, i know that i should just check with a specific running store, but i wanted to get some ideas first.
Thanks!

posted by fozzie33 to clothing, beauty, & fashion (3 answers total)

I underpronate and the running store guy recommended neutral cushioning shoes for this type of gait (NOT motion control shoes designed for overpronators). The good news is that gives you lots of options. But in terms of the shoe that fits your foot shape the best, really, the only way to figure that out is to go into the store and try some things on. There are subtle and not-so-subtle differences in things like the width or height of the toe box, interaction between the last shape and your arch profile, etc., that can make a difference between a shoe that is comfortable for you and one that makes your feet sad.
posted by drlith at 6:21 AM on June 27, 2012 [1 favorite]

I do this and when I ran, a friend who was a running coach recommended that I look for flexible shoes with a split last and some curve to them. You can tell if a shoe is split lasted by pulling up the insole and looking for a seam running down the middle of the shoe. At the time, some Saucony models were best for me as they had these features and also had a relatively wide toe box.

But ultimately, you need to do what drlith recommends and work with a running shoe specialist to determine what works best. I would really, really not recommend buying off the net until you know which shoe(s) work for you. And even then it's important to pay attention as shoe manufacturers are constantly coming out with new models (and obsoleting old ones).
posted by tommasz at 7:19 AM on June 27, 2012

The whole idea of fitting shoes based on pronation seems to be going out of fashion as new research finds no support for the idea. Given that you have specific problems, it might make sense to get a shoe that targets that issue, but in any case you should not get a shoe that's uncomfortable just because it seems like it "should" be good for you. Rather, if you can find a shoe that's comfortable AND that you think targets your pronation, then get it. But comfort should come first. Also, injuries could be related to running style or increasing milage too fast; have you considered those possibilities?
posted by Mr.Know-it-some at 7:53 AM on June 27, 2012