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Why should good running shoes be lightweight?
Why good running shoes should be lightweight
Running shoes: the lighter they are, the more comfortable the run
For runners or fitness enthusiasts, an important factor that should not be overlooked is choosing running gear like running shoes that are suitable for your running style. Shoes can be categorized into three main types: road running shoes, trail running shoes, and spikes. Keep in mind that although running is a form of exercise to build muscle or improve physical health, it involves placing the entire weight of your body directly onto your knees, ankles, and soles. This can have negative consequences, such as foot injuries during or after a run. Therefore, knowing how to choose the right type of shoe for your running style can help prevent initial injuries. Today, we will guide you through the components, types, and the proper ways to choose running shoes and other running gear.
Getting to know the types of running shoes
If categorized by popularity, running shoes can be divided into three main types, which can be further subdivided into five types as follows:
1. Running shoes (Road running shoes): These can be further subdivided into three types based on their usage as follows:
- Daily Trainers: These weigh approximately 280 grams each and are suitable for those who want to use them for regular training or running exercises, but are not recommended if you want to run fast over long distances. This type of running shoe provides a moderate to very high level of cushioning.
- Lightweight Trainers: These weigh approximately 200–270 grams each and are suitable for those who want to train for speed, as they offer a high level of cushioning.
- Competition shoes/Race day shoes: These weigh approximately 150–230 grams each and are suitable for those participating in running competitions. They are designed to support impact on road surfaces well and come in both thin-soled versions for short-distance running (5–10 km) and thick-soled versions for long-distance running (21–42 km).
2. Trail running shoes/Hiking shoes: These weigh approximately 250–400 grams each. Trail running shoes are suitable for those who want to run on rough or rugged terrain. Users can choose from various styles of trail running shoes, such as lightweight trail running shoes for racing on rugged paths, or boot-like trail running shoes that are thick and sturdy, which are suitable for those who want to hike in forests or mountains as they provide good foot protection while walking or running.
3. Spikes: These weigh no more than 150 grams each and are considered the lightest running shoes. Featuring spikes at the forefoot, they are suitable for those who want to run fast in a short amount of time because this type of running shoe has special properties for gripping road surfaces well.
Why good running shoes should be lightweight
Now that we know the basics of running gear such as running shoes, you may notice that whether they are road running shoes, trail running shoes, or spikes, they often share a similar characteristic: they are 'lighter' than standard shoes. The reason for this is that one of the attributes of a good running shoe is being lightweight. In the past, research has been conducted on whether the weight of a running shoe affects performance. The answer is that the lighter the running shoe, the more it can help improve running speed efficiency by up to 100%, especially for professional runners who will undoubtedly choose a lightweight pair of running shoes over a heavier pair. Additional reasons why good running shoes should be lightweight include:
- Increasing agility while running or walking.
- Reducing the feeling of heaviness or drag on the feet while running.
- Helping to increase running speed.
- Improving overall running efficiency.
The weight of running shoes depends on
The key factor that makes running shoes lightweight is the material used in their production. Developments in technology have enabled the creation of materials that are as durable as previous ones but lighter in weight while maintaining the same performance, such as the use of EVA foam. EVA foam provides better shock absorption during running or vertical body movement compared to other materials.
Basic methods for choosing running shoes
1. Choose the type of running gear that fits your running style, such as daily trainers, lightweight trainers, competition shoes, trail running shoes/hiking shoes, or spikes. You can ask for more details or prices on various types of shoes here.
2. Choose running shoes that are suitable for your foot type, such as neutral, flat, or high-arched feet. Choosing a pair that fits your feet will make your running more efficient and also help reduce friction while running.
3. Good shock absorption. Many people often mistake standard sneakers for being suitable for running. In reality, while there is no rule that you must use specific running shoes, choosing shoes designed for your running style will reduce impact better because the soles are designed to be softer and lighter than regular sneakers, which also helps reduce injuries while running.
4. Choose running shoes that are lightweight and breathable. Being lightweight helps reduce the feeling of drag while running and increases speed efficiency. Additionally, they should be breathable to reduce dampness that could lead to unpleasant odors.
REV RUNNR is a leading importer and distributor of sports products (Sportswear and Footwear) from many top brands, including apparel, trail running shoes, marathon running shoes, basketball shoes, and other running gear for all genders and ages. We help you get fully prepared from head to toe before you take on your next marathon. See details and order all products at www.rev.co.th, or chat with us for advice and shopping via LINE at @sportsrev.
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