Friday, May 20, 2016

Women's Athletic Shoe Buying Guide

Determining Foot Type
Foot type can be determined in different ways. Specialty athletic shoe stores often offer foot-type analysis, but people can also assess their foot type themselves by analyzing the shape their bare foot makes in sand, or a wet footprint on a piece of paper.

If the footprint shows no arch whatsoever, but rather complete, continuous contact between the entire bottom of the foot and the ground, these are flat feet.

If there is a pronounced arch between the heel and ball of the foot, with a thin outer edge at mid-sole, these are high-arched feet. Some high-arched footprints even have a gap between the ball and the heel.

If the footprint shows a small arch, with an outer edge no wider than an inch, this is a neutral foot type.

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In addition, examining the wear on the soles of one's current athletic shoes may give an idea of whether one overpronates or supinates. Wear on the outside of the heels usually indicates supination, while wear on the inside of the heel is a sign of overpronation.

General Guidelines and Tips
Although shoes for different athletics differ in terms of features, design, and performance, some general guidelines can be applied to all women's athletic shoes.

Fit
Feet can be asymmetrical, and most people have one foot that is larger than the other. Shoes should fit so that, while standing, there is a thumb's width between the shoe's end and the longest toe on the longer foot. Sizes should be bought for the larger foot.

Trying the Shoe On
Feet tend to swell during the day, so shopping at that time helps ensure a proper fit. Shoes should also be tried on while wearing the socks that will be worn with the shoes.

Shoes Should Match Foot Type and Athlete
Analyzing foot type before buying athletic shoes helps buyers find a shoe that helps them perform their best, featuring the right combination of support and flexibility. In addition, the shoe should match the athlete. Some shoes are intended for certain types of players or runners, according to factors like position, style, or playing conditions.

Buying Women's Running Shoes
Women's running shoes should match not only their foot type, but also the kind runner they are. The level of support and shock absorption are the main criteria when assessing what kind of running shoe is best.

Buying Women's Soccer Cleats
Women's soccer cleats vary according to three main features: Whether the cleats, or studs, are detachable; the intended surface type; and the upper material. It should be noted that soccer cleats generally fit more snugly than other shoes, to provide ultimate control.

Molded Cleats and Detachable Cleats
Molded cleats are permanently attached to the sole of the shoe, whereas detachable cleats can be removed and replaced. The advantage of detachable cleats is that they can be changed out for shorter or longer studs, depending on the weather and terrain. Otherwise, personal preference and league regulations determine which kind a player selects.

Surface Types
For indoor and outdoor soccer, there are different types of cleats, each one meant to provide optimal traction and speed. The table below lists the different surface types and the features of each cleat.

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