Does using an orthotic change the type of running shoe you can wear?

Question

I have flat feet. Before I got fitted for orthotics, I wore a high stability and motion control shoe to compensate for the overpronation. Now that I have and use an orthotic, can I use any type of running shoe -- i.e. more cushioned shoe as opposed to stability?

Answer 1

The answer is no. Motion control and cushioned shoes work in different ways. One is designed to lessen the effects of overpronation- as you know. The difference is a physical one, in the design of the shoe, and it is quite significant. In fact you can see the difference between the types of shoes easily just be looking at them. Most orthotics, for instance Superfeet, simply work to support the foot better and provide a good, solid, and stable platform for the foot. However, they are not substantial enough to compensate for something such as overpronation. Orthotics will help but I think that they should be used in tandem with motion control shoes to acieve the best results.

Answer 2

That's a good question you shoulda asked the podiatrist. And you don't tell us why you got the orthotics.... so even if we had some answers, they may not be correct.

But here are some guesses anyway.

First, you may have to find shoes with more footroom to accomodate the extra bulk inside the shoe. But before going out to buy new shoes, try the orthotics with the ones you now have... even if you just practice walking in them.

Second, let's assume the orthotics provide you more arch than you had as a flatfoot. Since I have high arches and need lots of cushion, it's possible that you may need to go to a more cusioned ride. Personally, I like Saucony shoes, but have used Asics also... but you have to shop for the specific model that has cushioning... then compare models to get the best fit and cushion.

Good Luck

Answer 3

I use orthotics, too. I have trained for distances from marathons down to 5K races. I can tell you that motion control and high stability shoes are too hard and stiff for my feet while using the orthotics. You need to avoid shoes which will overcorrect your gait, arches, etc., or you run the risk of stress fractures and other injuries.

I now use the Asics Gel Fortitude 2 shoe which is for overpronators who use orthotics. I use Asics trail running shoes for cross-country or trail running. Also, I buy shoes which are 1/2 to 1 size larger to accomodate for the orthotics.

Answer 4

No, the orthodic is to help your foot plant. It does not change the type of shoes you wear. Did you acclimate yourself to wearing the orthodic? When I started wearing them the dr. said to use them for 1 hour per day for a few days and then gradually build up to wearing them all of the time.