Cushioned running shoes are for biomechanically efficient runners with a neutral gait who are not prone to overpronation.
Who:
Cushioned running shoes are for those who can see half the arch of their footprint (considered a normal pronator, which is good as pronation absorbs shock) or those that have a high arch and whose foot has a tendency to roll outward when running (supination).
Why:
These running shoes are able to handle long runs and protect the joints but don't have the extra medial support that efficient runners don't need.
Extra Info:
Cushioned running shoes are for biomechanically efficient runners with a neutral gait who are not prone to overpronation. Cushioned running shoes are made for those who can see half the arch of their footprint (considered a normal pronator) or those that have a high arch and whose foot has a tendency to roll outward when running (supination). Cushioned running shoes generally have the softest midsoles and the least added stability. They’re usually built on a semi-curved or curved last to encourage foot motion, which is helpful for runners who have rigid, immobile feet. Cushioned running shoes are able to handle long runs and protect the joints and lack the extra medial support that efficient runners don't require.
Performance running shoes are lightweight and responsive for racing, tempo runs, or fast training days.
Who:
Runners competing in 5K's through marathons need a versatile training or performance racing shoe.
Why:
If you want to smash that old PR, you're going to need a performance running shoe that can help take you there.
Extra Info:
Performance running shoes are lighter and more responsive for racing, tempo runs or fast training days. Usually built on a semi-curved or curved last, performance running shoes have less cushioning than a normal running shoe. Some performance running shoes are relatively stable; others are not. You should choose a performance running shoe if you’re a quick, efficient runner who wants a light second shoe for fast-paced training; or you want a racing shoe, but want more support and cushioning than you’d get from one of the pure, super-light racers.
Stability running shoes are for runners that mildly overpronate and need extra support through the heel, midsole, and post area.
Who:
If you have a flat or low arch and see most of your footprint (which indicates overpronation) or if you have a taller, heavier frame or are a bow-legged runner, you need a stability running shoe.
Why:
Stability Running Shoes reduce overpronation, which causes excessive foot motion and increases your risk of injury.
Extra Info:
Stability running shoes are for runners who mildly overpronate and need extra support through the heel, midsole and post area. To provide stability, stability running shoes often have a medial post or dual-density midsole, features that provide a firmer density under the inner edge of your foot. Stability running shoes are usually built on a semi-curved last. If you have a flat or low arch and see most of your footprint (which indicates overpronation) or if you have a taller, heavier frame or are a bow-legged runner you should run in stability running shoes.
Support running shoes are motion control shoes for those who severely overpronate and need maximum control and cushioning.
Who:
Those with extremely flat arches who can see almost all of their footprint flat to the ground need support running shoes.
Why:
Support running shoes are for excessive overpronators because they are are at a higher risk of injury and need a shoe that helps holds their foot in proper position.
Extra Info:
Support running shoes are the most rigid, control-oriented running shoes. They're designed to slow down or help limit extreme inward rolling of the foot and ankle, which is called overpronation. Excessive overpronators are at a higher risk of injury and need a shoe that helps holds their foot in proper position. Support running shoes are generally heavy but very durable. Many support running shoes are built on a straight last, which offers stability and maximum support on the inner side of the foot. Support running shoes are made for runners with extremely flat arches who can see almost their entire footprint flat to the ground.
Trail running shoes are built specifically for the rough-and-tumble world of trail running. With specially designed outsoles, gussted tongues, foot deflection plates, and usually water protection, these shoes are specially-made to take you over the river and through the woods.
Who:
For the runner who prefers the trail over the road and needs a shoe that can handle it.
Why:
Normal road-running shoes do not offer the protection and features that trail shoes have been designed for. Trail running shoes are 4-wheel drive for your feet.
Extra Info:
Trail running shoes are built specifically for the runner who prefers the trail to the road and needs a shoe that can handle it. Normal road shoes do not offer the protection and features that trail running shoes have been designed for. With specially designed outsoles, gusseted tongues, foot deflection plates and water protection, trail running shoes are designed to take you over the river and through the woods. The foot often sits slightly lower to the ground than usual for stability and responsiveness, and trail running shoes often have less cushioning than a road shoe because they're designed for softer surfaces.