Does Sport Specific Footwear Matter?
Sport-specific shoes are important because they can help prevent injuries, while enhancing performance and comfort. Material technologies used can provide cushioning, flexibility, fit/snugness/room, and traction to address the distinct biomechanical patterns inherent in the particular sport. Sport-specific shoes have uppers with midfoot support and most importantly, specially designed outsoles created for a given playing surface. In addition, some companies are offering additional widths in court and field shoes.
Midsoles, outsoles, upper materials, and heel and midfoot lockdown differ for each sport due to different containment, cushioning, and traction needs. Using the wrong type of footwear for a particular activity can predispose you to injury.
An example of this that I have been seeing lately is the use of running shoes while playing the fast growing sport of pickleball, Pickleball is a court sport similar to tennis which demands lateral stability for side to side motion, Many people start playing pickleball in whatever athletic shoes they already have. Running shoes are designed for forward motion having less lateral stability and a thicker heel to cushion heel strike. These features can predispose court sport players to ankle sprains and tendon injuries. Pickleball specific shoes are currently rare but the choices are growing along with the sport. Tennis specific shoes are a great option as they provide the stability and mobility needed. Basketball shoes can be ok but are heavier on the feet.
Whatever the sport shoe needed, getting the correct fit is important. Start with a foot measurement using the Brannock device or similar measuring instrument . This should give a starting point for length and width.
Keep in mind that shoe sizing is not a uniform standard and can vary significantly even within brands. My rule of "thumb" for length is to be able to press the tip of your thumb between the end of the shoe and the longest toe. For width the shoe should be touching the sides of the foot without squeezing the toes or the forefoot. Fitting should be done later in the day in the case of foot swelling. Bring your socks and orthotics to try with the new shoes as well.
If you need help choosing a shoe for a particular sport, we are here to help!
Dr Paul "New Shoe" Betschart
The Foot Book Doctor
Healthy Feet Happy Life
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