What is the point of running shoes?
Jeudi, Mars 25, 2010 - 09:28
Running shoes; do we need them? What are they used for? Do they even work? Are they just a marketing tool? In all of the literature that crosses the desks of the information specialists at SIRC there seems to be one consistent answer, no one is certain and more research needs to be done. Since running shoes are constantly in the experimental phase of research it is hard to have any type of evidence based application to running shoes.
What does this mean? Historically running shoes have evolved and for the most part we can see (and feel) that it has been for the better. However, it could be suggested that when it comes to buying running shoes it may just be a personal choice. The five Ws’ could be applied to running shoes: who, what, where, when and why. In a 2008 study it was determined that cost doesn’t really matter when it comes to shoes, low and medium cost shoes provided the same and/or better support than higher price brands. This does not stop more and more shoes for being made to answer all the latest running trends.
There are shoes for all surfaces from the track to the trail. Whether you want lots of cushioning or are interested in barefoot running there is a shoe for you. Craving the latest trends? The Reebok ZigTech and Nike LunarLite offer speed, the Asics GEL-Kinsei® 3 adapt to gait or the Brooks BioMoGo line appeals to the eco conscious runners to name a few.
If you are looking for more information on this topic there are resources for you in the SIRC Collection. Some that may be of interest are:
- C E, R. (2009). Is your prescription of distance running shoes evidence-based?. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 43(3), 159-162.
- Clinghan, R., Arnold, G., Drew, T., Cochrane, L., & Abboud, A. (2008). Do you get value for money when you buy an expensive pair of running shoes?. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 42(3), 189-193.
- Dzierzak, L. (2009). Bare Foot Your Soul. SGB, 42(7), 38-42.
- Pearl, B. (2009). Barefoot Running, or Just a Minimalist Shoe?. Running & FitNews, 27(4), 14-15.
- (2010). Shoes alter your running style. Athletics Weekly (Descartes Publishing Ltd.), 65(5), 10.
