The Neutral Foot
A neutral foot lands on the outside of the heel, then rolls inward (pronation) to slightly absorb shock. Runners with a neutral foot and average weight are usually considered to be bio-mechanically efficient, not needing excessive motion control features.
Best shoes: Stability with minimum support.
Recommended ryka shoe: MoaMoa . Cross Trainer Leather . Country Walk . GCB Walk . Sheoji
The Flat Foot
Flat feet have a low arch and leave a nearly complete imprint (when wet). This foot type usually indicates overpronation, and a heel strike that lands on the outside, rolling inwards excessively. Over time, this can casue many different kinds of overuse injuries.
Best shoes: Motion control shoes or stability shoes with firm midsoles and guidance control features that reduce the degree of pronation. Runners with flat feet should stay away from high cushioned shoes that lack added medial support and control.
Recommended ryka shoe: MC2 Run . Momentum . MC2 Walk . Core Strength . Doyenne Bravo . Doyenne Plus
The High Arched Foot
High arched feet have a very narrow area between the heel and the forefoot that contacts the ground when running. A curved, high arched foot is generally termed a supinated or underpronated foot. This type of foot doesn't pronate enough, so it's not an effective shock absorber.
Best shoes: Cushioned shoes with plenty of flexibility to encourage foot motion. Stay away from motion-control or stability shoes that reduce foot mobility.
Recommended ryka shoes: Luna Run . Solace . Experience Trainer . Ramble Walk . Muse Walk
To best prescribe the correct footwear for your foot type, head to your nearest The Athlete's Foot store and try the revolutionary Fitprint system.
