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The Best Shoe for the Sport

Some people believe that a sports shoe is a sports shoe and that they’re all created equal.

However, most athletic coaches and high performance athletes would definitely disagree. There are different athletic shoe requirements for each type of sport and the shoe you choose can have a significant impact on your performance and on your ability to remain free from serious foot and ankle injuries that can “put you out of the game” indefinitely.

Let’s look at the “right” shoe for several popular sports:

Basketball Shoes should have:

• Rigid, thick soles, combined with a well-cushioned shoe, provide the necessary stability for running and absorb the impact of jumping and landing to prevent injury and reduce shock

• High-ankle construction that provides support to both sides of the ankle, especially important for the quick changes in direction required in this sport

• Proper traction for running, along with proper tread for pivoting motion

Tennis or Racquetball Court Shoes require:

• The same stability elements as basketball shoes

• Padded toe area to prevent injury

• Flexible soles for fast changes in direction

• Construction that is designed to keep the feet close to the ground for the most stability

Running Shoes need to:

• Be designed to absorb shock that could injure a runner’s ankles, knees and lower back (i.e., shin splints, knee pain)

• Control how the runner’s heel hits the ground/pavement, so that the rest of the foot follows correctly

• Be lighter in weight, especially for competitive racing where additional weight can affect time outcomes

• Take into consideration the individual’s foot abnormalities (flat feet, high arches, stability and flexibility requirements, pronation issues, etc.)

Many athletic shoes have a short wear life and need to be replaced regularly for maximum protection and performance. The choice of sock is also important; those that “wick” away moisture and prevent odor are best.

Coaches are an excellent source for information about sport-specific footwear. And, please remember that if you have specific questions about the proper shoe for a sport, based on your particular feet, please ask us when you come in for your next chiropractic appointment.