I tend to get inner shin splints, so I wear motion control shoes. I am
currently wearing the Saucony Grid Stabil, which weighs 12 oz. Adidas has a
motion control shoe that weighs 9 oz. As far as shin splints are concerned,
what are the pros and cons of wearing a heavier shoe versus a light shoe?
Also, what special features do shoes designed for heavy runners have?
Thanks
Paula, I don't think that there are any special features for heavier runners in
shoes. I usually advise heavy (over 180#) runners to replace their shoes more
often becasue they will be more inclined to break down more quickly. As far as
the other question is concerned, weight on the end of your legs has an impact,
expecially over longer runs, and especially if you are concerned about speed.
Assuming the same stride length, quicker transitions onto and off the ground
result in faster splits. If you have to pick up a lighter shoe vs a heavier
shoe, you would always choose the lighter shoe all other things being equal. Why
do the extra work? We fight this battle every day with the orthotics we build
for runners. For racing, we build an ultra light foam device to minimize the
transition time from step to step.
Neil
...
