The arrival of nice weather often coincides with the beginning of vacations and the return of BBQ evenings, but most importantly, it marks the return of summer sports. Runners in the Greater Montreal area start coming out in large numbers as the temperature rises a few degrees. However, to ensure a comfortable, safe, and pain-free return to running, it’s important to remember the importance of a good warm-up, proper strengthening exercises, and most importantly, having the right equipment. In this regard, the right pair of running shoes can make all the difference!
To make sure you’re at your best during your running outings, it’s important to choose your shoes based on four characteristics: incline, cushioning, weight, and width. To facilitate your shopping experience, our specialized physiotherapist in running offers her 5 favorite pairs of shoes.
Altra Escalante
The Altra Escalante running shoe is the perfect blend of comfort and performance. Its wider forefoot provides greater comfort to the runner by reducing the sensation of compression. It also offers a more natural perception of movement. This shoe is perfect for runners with bunions (hallux valgus) as it provides more space for the toes. It is also characterized by its 0mm incline, which allows for a more natural landing, as if running barefoot. The low shoe incline is also very useful for runners suffering from patellofemoral pain (knee pain).
New Balance 1400
Whether you’re completing the Montreal Marathon or going for your daily runs, the New Balance RC 1400 adapts to all types of runners. It is ideal for those seeking a high-performance running shoe while maintaining a significant 10mm incline. These shoes are perfect for runners dealing with Achilles tendon issues while remaining very lightweight to satisfy even the most competitive runners.
Saucony Kinvara
The Saucony Kinvara is an extremely lightweight running shoe, yet it still provides a valuable intermediate cushioning that helps alleviate foot pain during your runs. It has a 4mm incline that ensures a more natural running pattern without sacrificing the comfort of cushioning. This makes the Saucony Kinvara the ideal shoe for long distances ranging from 15 to 20 km.
On Cloud Cloudflow
This running shoe offers a 6mm incline, making it a good middle ground for those who want a sensation reminiscent of barefoot running while still maintaining moderate cushioning. With these two characteristics, the Cloudflow is ideal for runners experiencing knee or foot pain. It is also very lightweight and suitable for more competitive runners who will be tackling a half marathon this summer.
Inov8 Bare-XF
The Inov8 running shoes are highly minimalist. With a 0mm incline and very minimal cushioning, they are effective in addressing knee, hip, and lower back pain during running. When combined with a rehabilitation program, these shoes promote the use of muscles to absorb impact and reduce lower body pain. The Inov8 Bare-XF is a shoe specifically designed for shorter running outings. However, before choosing such a model, it is recommended to consult with your physiotherapist. A too rapid transition to a minimalist shoe type can increase the risk of injury.
You now have all the tools at your disposal to find the running shoes of your dreams before the arrival of summer!
If you need the services of an experienced physiotherapist to ensure a comfortable and safe return to running or simply to make sure you choose the right shoes, make an appointment.
