How do running shoes work? Is there really a best shoe for runners?

Running shoes do a fantastic job of protecting our feet. Imagine running on concrete or asphalt in your bare feet... no running shoes at all. The human foot strikes the ground with the force of three times your own body weight. We are lucky that modern athletic shoes are made to absorb most of that shock. Shoes for runners have cushioning systems that provide an important benefit - help prevent running injuries.

So how are running shoes constructed to prevent injuries? The bottom of the sneakers is called the outsole which is usually made of rubber. Although it feels very hard, the jogging shoes outsole actually absorbs a large amount of shock. Next, the insole of the running shoes is typically made of ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA). This also provides more cushioning to the training shoes.

The most important cushioning area of running shoes is the midsole, located between the outsole and the insole. Many runners ask the question - who makes the best shoes for runners?

Well, several makers of running shoes have developed their own midsole systems that are very good. They do this by improving and enhancing the cushioning of the jogging sneakers.

Some of the preferred and better known running shoe systems are the Nike Air, Saucony Grid, and the Asics Gel.

So which manufacturer has the best running shoes? We would take look at the ones we just mentioned. But... it is almost impossible to say for sure. The real answer is that the best running shoes are the ones that work best for you. If you have found a brand of training shoes that allows you to run injury free, then stick with those running shoes and order some more. If your current jogging shoes are causing you pain, then try a different pair of shoes to match your running style.

Site Map

For more running information, take a look at the following menu topics:

Running Shoes | Trail Running Shoes| Women's Running Shoes | Running Shoes FAQ | Running Shoes - Terms