Running Shoe Categories: Why are they necessary and how do I choose?

Neutral Cushion

Neutral Cushion footwear offers maximum shock absorption and flexibility. This category of footwear varies between very light offerings that provide maximum flexibility and speed to more robust models that are more durable and slightly stiffer for higher mileage training. Cushion footwear are best suited for runners that have a neutral gait or underpronate.

Stable Cushion

Stable Cushion footwear offers excellent cushioning and some medial support they are more flexible than stability footwear. Stable Cushioning shoes are best suited for runners that have mild or no overpronation and runners willing to give up some durability for more flexibility.

Stability

Stability footwear offers a good blend of cushioning, medial support and durability. Stability footwear often have some form of medial posting, and are generally firmer for increased durability in the midsole. Stability footwear is best suited to runner's that need moderate motion control and prefer a firmer more durable shoe.

Motion Control

Motion Control footwear offers the most support and durability out of the four footwear categories. This type of footwear is designed to limit over pronation (or slow the rate at which a runner overpronates). They are generally heavier but very durable. Motion Control footwear is best suited for runners that have severe overpronation.

Form Improvement

Models in this category are suitable for all foot types, providing that you adopt a mid-foot style of running (also know as Pose or Chi Running). Essentially, by not landing on your heel you switch your body from using pronation as it's primary means of shock absorbtion, to developing muscles in your lower body to absorb impact. You should thouroughly investigate the topic to determine whether you are a good candidate for this style of Running.

Road Racing

The Road Racing category houses some of the fastest and lightest models in our selection. Weight reduction is paramount so durability and support are often compromised in favour of flexibility and reduced weight. They are best suited for racing, speed work, or any other training that is short in duration and distance, or less frequent. Models in this category can reside in either the Neutral Cushion or sometimes Stable Cushion categories although they are a lot lighter and therefore a lot less durable.

Trail Running and Adventure

The Trail category is home to footwear purposely built for off road performance. Adventure Racing, Trail Running, and Ultra Running are sports that often present tougher than usual underfoot conditions and require footwear that's up to the task when plain old running shoes just won't cut it. Outsoles have aggressive, directional lug patterns and provide traction on slippery and uneven terrain, as well as improving climbing ability and descent control. Midsoles are firmer for greater durability and protection, and commonly offer integrated protection plates that provide "push-through" protection from sharp rocks or roots and enhance torsional stiffness. Uppers are either highly breathable or Water Resistant/Proof and are designed to be extra tough but drain and dry fast.

Walking

You'll notice that all the footwear in the "Walking" category are actually Running shoes! There is a very important reason for this. Anyone who wants the absolute best footwear for walking should be wearing a Running shoe for these reasons:

The biomechanics of Walking are exactly the same as Running, only with less impact.

Running shoes have the best cushioning and support technology available, something walkers need equally as much as runners.

Walking shoes (particularly all leather models) often compromise fit, cushioning, and breathability in order to make the shoe look a certain way.

Walkers often use orthotics, but many walking shoes do not work as well as running shoes for use with orthotics.