Shoe types

Shoe Types
Choices of Shoes for Your Best Fit
By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com
Updated March 19, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Motion Control Shoes (MC)
Top Picks for Motion Control Shoes
Motion control shoes are the most rigid shoes. They are designed to be inflexible because they are meant to limit overpronation. They are generally heavy, but durable. Many are built upon a straight last, and may have a dual density midsole, with the denser material on the inside of the foot to help correct for pronation. Primarily, motion control shoes are for over-pronators and heavier people. Often people with flat feet do well in these shoes. The problem with most motion control shoes is that they tend to have a thick heel which makes walking in them the same as walking uphill with every step.

Stability Shoes
Top Picks for Stability Shoes
Stability shoes are a compromise type of shoe. They are more flexible than a motion control shoe while providing good support and durability. Often they are built upon a semi-curved last and may have a dual density midsole for support. Stability shoes are for people who do not have severe motion control problems and midweight people. They tend to have a thick heel as well, though not as thick as a motion control shoe which makes walking in them the same as walking uphill with every step.

Cushioned Shoes
Top Picks for Cushioned Shoes
Cushioned Shoes generally have the softest midsoles, the least support, but are very flexible. Usually they are built upon a semi- curved or curved last. These shoes are for people who do not overpronate or need extra support. Often people with high arches do well in these shoes. Again, a thick heel makes it the same as walking uphill with every step.

Lightweight Trainer/Racer
Top Picks for Performance Training Shoes
These shoes are lighter versions of standard trainers and are used for fast paced training or racing.

Racing Flats
These shoes tend to have very little stability, cushioning, or durability. However, this also means that they have a low heel, are flexible, and are very light.

Race Walker Shoes
Top Picks for Racewalking Shoes
These shoes are built to accommodate the motion of race walking and are similar to racing flats. They tend to not have a thick midsole nor knobs or lugs on the outsole.

Lightweight Hiking and Trail Shoes
Top Picks for Trail Shoes
Designed for day hiking and short trips, often with rugged-looking soles and outdoorsy colors. Designed to be breathable, comfortable, and cushioned, sacrificing support and durability compared to boots.

Midweight Boots
Designed for trail hiking and off-trail hiking with light to moderate backpacking loads. More durable and supporting, but still designed for short trips over moderate terrain.

Extended Backpacking Boots
Designed for hiking with moderate to heavy backpacking loads, multi-day trips, rough terrain. Durable and supportive with ankle and foot protection.