If you're a runner (or just love the comfort of sneakers), you'll be happy to hear the latest innovations in technology are being integrated into athletic shoes, making for healthier, happier, pain-free feet.
We spoke first with Board Certified Dr. Luis Navarro, founder and director of The Vein Treatment Center in New York, N.Y., to learn how running impacts the body. Next, we asked Tom Garza of Asics America to fill us in on how advances in sneaker technology can help wearers maintain healthy feet.
According to Dr. Navarro, the physical act of running aids circulation by getting everything flowing in the body. However, it can simultaneously stress the joints.
"It is important to bend knees and not run on stiff legs so that circulation can flow evenly to the knees and ankles. Also, running up and down hills, in humid/sticky weather or at different paces puts added pressure on the joints. The hot weather, terrain of roads, and different running paces is also known to swell veins," says Dr. Navarro. Running on a treadmill at a steady incline and pace may be much easier and healthier than running outdoors, with the doctor noting that it can account for up to 30 percent less pressure on the joints and veins.
Proper technique, form and supportive foot gear is essential for health, he advises.
"Make sure you are bending [your] knees when running so that blood can circulate properly and that you are not putting extra impact on the knees. Running puts about 15 times your body weight pressure onto the knees, so it is best to do whatever you can to make running less impactful. It is best to run at a steady pace so that your body doesn't have a shock reaction from pressure increases from running at different speeds," says Dr. Navarro. He recommends wearing compression clothing such as socks and sleeves to reduce swelling of the legs and veins. Along with utilizing correct technique and form, in order to minimize swelling and pressure, runners should wear supportive foot gear.
Over the course of five years, engineered in conjunction with Asics Insititute of Sports Science in Kobe, Japan, the latest sports performance shoe from Asics includes advanced technology. It features 360 degrees of gel cushioning underfoot, providing maximum shock absorption and durability. FluidFit® upper technology combines multi-directional stretch mesh that adapts to the athlete's foot, creating a customized, seamless glove-like fit. Solyte® Midsole Material, an Asics proprietary technology, is lighter, more durable and offers more cushioning, while Compression Molded EVA provides immediate responsiveness for those who prefer immediate feedback during their run. The GEL-Quantum 360TM has a durable full-length outsole with AHAR technology (Asics High Abrasive Rubber) heel plug positioned strategically at the point of heel contact for added durability.
These units are designed to work in unison with the lateral gel at a slightly softer density than the medial side (midfoot area) ensuring proper compression and stability at first contact phase and throughout the gait cycle. The full-length propulsion plate works in unison with a high-pressure thermoplastic urethane shank that extends from the heel through the arch of the foot and just slightly past the first metatarsal head. This helps stabilize the foot and efficiently transfer energy throughout the gait cycle. Its thermoplastic urethane molded heel counter effectively keeps the heel locked in place for secure stability, support and superb heel fitting.
"Performance will prove to be the biggest difference — a slightly lower drop at 10 mm than similar models will offer better responsiveness coupled with all that cushioning power to help absorb impact — while providing protection, protection, protection," says Garza. "High impact forces are natural occurrences during running, and these proprietary technologies are a critical component to having a great running experience and healthy feet."
Be sure to follow T-Lounge on Twitter and visit our Facebook page.
