A correct assessment for shoes should contain the following:
- Asking questions about you! What will the shoes before, what’s your activity level, past injuries and so forth should all be addressed between you and your fit professional.
- Measurement. You should always have your feet measured for length and width. Feet can change sizes and one foot is always bigger than the other, a new purchase should not be based on your last shoe’s size.
- Gait Analysis. Your fit professional should observe you running and walking, either on a treadmill or designated area. A trained professional will determine your personal movement "map" from this process. That "map" reveals the programming of everything happening within your body including your levels of mobility, stability, flexibility and functional strength. The analysis of all these different elements taken together is what creates a complete picture of a person's gait, and allows them to better understand the type of footwear you need. (*This is where it is decided on whether you under or over pronate.)
- Arch Analysis. Either by viewing your feet (without shoes) from various angles or by having you step on a arch pad your fit professional should measure your arch to determine the best shoe for you and your chosen activity, as well as the need for inserts and what type.
- Fitting. Try on the shoes with the socks you will most likely use. Run around the parking lot, bend, stretch, stand on your tip toes- move in the shoes and see how they feel. Tell your fit professional about any tight areas, slipping, rubbing or any other complaints- you need to find the shoe right for your foot, but that you also feel good in.
Dr. Brown and Dr. Saffer are both skilled in athletic shoes and fitting and are happy to sit down with you to discuss inserts, if your shoe is right for you and foot tips for your active life!
Find a professional fit equipped store near you with the Runners World Store Finder.
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