Trainer Types - Recommendations

Orion21 · 12 Jun 2013 at 16:38

I am looking to buy a new pair of trainers for general use (and maybe for minor running also).

I have noticed 3 types when researching online: Motion control, Stability and Cushioned (not seen Motion control in the sports shops though, but they do have a lot of trainers not categorised in this way whatever they are).

From researching I think my foot type is the normal arched shape, however I am significantly overweight which some sources seem to suggest affects the trainer type (i.e. Motion Control, but my feet definitely aren't flat which seems to suggest not Motion Control so I think probably not that type).

What type of trainer should I be going for? Do I need cushioning to soften impact of being overweight or stability to help preserve arch shape (which I assume could flatten due to my weight)?

[DOD]Asprilla · 12 Jun 2013 at 16:56

Motion control, Stability and Cushioned sound a lot like marketing terms to me.

Best bet is to go to a running shop. They will watch you run and possibly even video it so they can suggest appropriate shoes.

uv · 12 Jun 2013 at 17:16

tbh if you're significantly overweight I'd advise against running. Your knees certainly wont enjoy it.

try something with less joint impact, such as cycling, rowing or swimming if you're after cardio.

#Chri5# · 12 Jun 2013 at 17:23

[DOD]Asprilla;24442954 said:
Motion control, Stability and Cushioned sound a lot like marketing terms to me.

Best bet is to go to a running shop. They will watch you run and possibly even video it so they can suggest appropriate shoes.

They are reasonably standard names for groups of running shoe : Runners World

[DOD]Asprilla · 12 Jun 2013 at 17:29

Fair enough. I still wouldn't be bying trainers based upon self diagnosis of the broad category required.

I over pronate and have hip issues and the best thing I ever did was get a professional fit. It doesn't cost anything.

#Chri5# · 12 Jun 2013 at 17:38

[DOD]Asprilla;24443105 said:
Fair enough. I still wouldn't be bying trainers based upon self diagnosis of the broad category required.

I over pronate and have hip issues and the best thing I ever did was get a professional fit. It doesn't cost anything.

Couldn't agree more.

Orion21 · 12 Jun 2013 at 17:38

Is there anything different about these 'running' trainers compared to the ones that aren't marked as such (but look the same style i.e. I mean they're not obviously indoor court trainers or slightly 'dressier' trainers for wearing with jeans etc).

It's more that I need a new pair of trainers and thought that if they were the same thing I may as well get the right type just in case further down the line I start doing some light running / walking. I'd be planning to use them for general every day wear as my main shoes and for going to the gym and possibly cycling.

[DOD]Asprilla · 13 Jun 2013 at 09:41

Cushioning motion control and stability won't do anything to help or hinder cycling, the mechanism is different, there is no impact and you don't use your heel.

However, even if you are just wearing trainers to walk to the pub then getting the right ones for your gait will help you. I have fallen arches and over pronate a lot so I use orthotic inserts in my shoes. I'm wearing them now sat at my deak, not just when I do for a run.

Actually, I take that back; I don't wear them when I'm cycling as, because of the mechanics of cycling, they have no effect.