Just trying to choose some new shoes for this years trips. Some people wonder if it's worth spending money on high-end runners. My view on this is most certainly YES.
Cheap shoes generally have thinner, weaker lower quality soles than more expensive ones and this can cause foot and leg problems if you train regular. If you are carrying excessive weight either in your pack or on your body also remember this can also accelerate problems.
Pronation or supination is where the foot turns in or out when stepping and can cause a host of nasties such as patellar tendonitis (knee) or planter fashiitis. Don't take my word for it
Check out this page for an explanation. Masterofbasketball.com or here for Plantar Fasciitis
In simple terms an easy way to combat this I have found is to use better shoes.....some people like additional insoles also. Insoles can range in price from £10 to £500. Asics pronation page here
pic c.o masterofbasketball.com diagram of arch prints / pronation
So in simple terms the better design of shoe the more likely it will deal with pronation or other potential problems.
For example Asics Gel Trail Attack 6 has arch cushioning, rock protection plate, midsole improved material prolonging life and improving bounce back, reflective material for road walking, running in the dark (we all do it) and lastly rearfoot gel cushioning the heel. (and thats just the sole spec.....)
Brooks running has a good website / including shoe selector and health related tips
