For those looking to get outside and experience a variety of physical and emotional benefits, like losing weight, lowering stress, and meeting new people, running is an easy and accessible pastime. However, while running can be an enjoyable and affordable way to stay in shape, people with pes planus, otherwise known as flatfoot, should pay special attention to their footwear before going out on a run. Approximately 20 to 25 percent of people have flat feet, a condition that is characterized by a low arch on the instep of the foot, and this can put them at risk for bodily injury if they do not wear the right shoes while running or exercising. Not only can the proper running shoes reduce chance of injury, but they can also provide much better comfort and more enjoyment overall. Runners with flat feet should first research and understand their condition and then look for shoes with increased arch support, stability, and motion control. Normally, the arch on the inside of the foot serves as a natural shock-absorption device.

It helps to distribute the body’s weight along the feet, ankles, and knees upon impact with the ground and generally allows the body to maintain correct posture. It also encourages proper pronation, which is the rolling of the foot from heel to toe when the body is in motion. This forward rolling motion is common in those who have fairly pronounced or normal arches when they stand upright. Those with flat feet have arches that are very low, and when stationary, most or all of the surface area of the foot comes in contact with the ground. When in motion, their low arch collapses when the foot hits the ground, and this impact can be traumatizing to the body. In addition, people with flat feet typically do not pronate correctly and tend to roll their feet inward as they run. As a consequence, the ankle twists inward to absorb the stress. Over time, this type of gait can lead to shin splints, back problems, and tendonitis. Fortunately, there are running shoes that are designed specifically for people with flat feet, and finding the right pair can help ensure comfort and safety.

One thing to remember as a flat footed runner is that the perfect shoe has much more to do with foot shape and running gait than style, color, or brand name. Flat footed runners should consult their physicians or physical therapists to determine their specific type of running gait and the amount of pronation that occurs when they are in motion. To validate this diagnosis, simply look at the sole of the shoe after significant use. best arch support running shoes 2015Those who overpronate, or rotate inward, will have heavy wear visible on the inside part of the sole.are shoes cheaper at nike outlet Another consideration is the size of the feet. vans shoes sales ukThose with flat feet should have their feet measured, even if they have been wearing the same size for years. running shoes celebs wear

The reason being, if one foot is smaller than the other, there will be more empty space, and therefore, more movement within the shoe. Flat footed runners should look for shoes that are relatively snug, yet comfortable. Buying shoes with a wider width may prove a bit more comfortable when walking around, but the more room the foot has to rotate when running, the more room there is for bodily injury over time. Finally, before purchasing a new pair of shoes, consider how much wear and tear they will receive within a year. buy designer trainers ukIn general, a pair of well constructed running shoes will last between 300 and 500 miles, and this number can vary depending on the running surface and the running mechanics.nike shoes with floral Simply put, those with flat feet need extra support systems built into their shoes.

Typically, any shoe that claims to offer added support, especially arch support, is preferable to a shoe that does not. There are two specific categories of shoes that are geared for people with flat feet, and these are stability control and motion control shoes. One phrase that has become the industry standard for added support is stability control. Stability control shoes offer runners with flat feet a nice combination of cushioning, support, and durability. Stability control shoes are often referred to as shoes containing structured cushioning, and they help to limit excess motion of the foot and thereby provide the runner with a more stable impact when hitting the ground in stride. The added technology in stability shoes is usually the most visible part of the sneaker. Stability shoes have an added compound of foam along the instep, and this is oftentimes a different color than the rest of the shoe. This is the part of the shoe that helps the runner maintain a solid gait and pronate forward instead of inward.

Excellent choices in stability control shoes are available from Adidas, Nike, Asics, New Balance, and Brooks, among others. Motion control shoes offer the flat-footed runner another option. Shoes that offer motion control build on the stability control technology and add even more cushion, usually foam or other padding material, along the arch of the foot. Motion control shoes restrict the foot more than typical running shoes and serve to reduce the risk of the foot rolling inward and harming the runner. In other words, they are designed to hold the foot firmly in place when the body is in motion. One drawback to motion control shoes is that they can be heavier than other types of shoes. However, the added weight is often necessary for those looking to improve the quality of their run. Classic name brands like Adidas, Brooks, Saucony, and Nike, as well as others, all offer motion control shoes. Even for those without flat feet, searching for the right type of running shoes can be a time consuming and often frustrating process.

There are many factors to consider, such as style, color, durability, and affordability. Department stores and sporting goods stores typically carry running shoes that are tailored to the needs of those with flat feet but, it just may take a little driving around to find that perfect pair. Those with flat feet have to be fairly particular with regard to their purchases. While there are a large number of stores around the country that may suit your needs, none of them can match the diverse collection of motion control and stability shoes that eBay can provide. Only with eBay can the consumer sort through thousands of different types of running shoes without ever leaving the comfort of home. When first logging into eBay, locate the Search bar near the top of the screen. Use this space to type in the desired style, brand, or specific shoe you are looking for. If you type the word "shoes" in a general search, a new set of icons will appear on the middle of the screen next to the words Shop by Style.

There, you can scroll over the Running icon and click it to narrow your search. On the left hand side of the screen you will find a taskbar that will allow you to narrow your search by gender, color, width, material, and brand. After finding the desired shoe, for example, the Asics Gel Evolution 6, click on the blue hyperlinked text next to the item. This will bring you to a page where you can purchase the item. Since running shoes can be an expensive investment, a buyer will want to get to know the seller before making a purchase. One way to do this is to see if other customers have left positive feedback on the seller’s profile. When you have zeroed in on the desired product, take a look at the ratings and feedback on the right hand side of the page. You can find out if the seller has earned a solid track record and whether or not they have established themselves as someone who ships items quickly. Before deciding on the type of shoes to buy, runners need to know their foot type, running style, and the amount of wear the shoes will get.