Online guide to running shoes terminology.

Heel Notch - Terminology for subtle depression embedded into heel of running shoes. Allows for a better fit and less irritation of Achilles tendon when wearing running shoes.

Editor's Choice Shoe - Selection of best running shoes in a specific category. Best pick often found in running shoes guide.

Last - Term used for wooden mold on which the running shoes are built. Training shoes are constructed around three primary shapes: straight, curved and semi-curved. Each running shoe maker will have their own unique last.

Lateral - Outer edge of running footwear.

Tongue - Top area of running shoes that protects and separates the foot from the pressure of the laces on the athletic shoes.

Stabilizing Devices - Used in running footwear to correct runner's overpronation. Usually found in the midsole of the training shoes. One way to control overpronation is with firmer compositions in the running shoes midsole.

Neutral - Term for running shoes that are designed to have little or no impact on a runner's overpronation.

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