Comparing Custom Orthotics and Off-The-Shelf Insoles
Although the calendar indicates that it is still technically winter, the drastic change in the weather signifies the inevitable update of running shoes for the spring.
Asics Nimbus 18
Part of running shoe culture is that shoe companies update running shoes on a yearly or bi-yearly basis. This is their golden opportunity to use new technology and upgrade features based on customer and research-based feedback from the previous model. If you plan to purchase the new version of your current shoe, it’s important that you try on and test the new version both indoors before taking it outdoors.
Brooks Glycerin (available in widths)
You may find with some of the updated models that the shoe will have a shorter or more narrow toe box. Others have introduced widths that allow you to get a more accurate sizing if a wide or narrow shoe is important to your comfort. Sometimes, you may even find that the new version feels nothing like the old version, so you may have to try on multiple pairs to see what a good fit for you is.
Saucony Triumph ISO 3 (available in widths)
Asics, Brooks, New Balance and Saucony all have updates coming to some of their core models that will be available in the spring. One of the biggest updates in technology has been the introduction of 3D printing. Although there is a long way to go before custom 3D printed shoes will be readily available, some companies are using this technology for their shoe uppers and overlays. Primarily what this means for the consumer is that some shoes have a more ‘snug-like’ or sock-like feel to the upper; you’ll likely find that it hugs your foot in the shoe more than your previous pair.
NB Fresh Foam 1080 v7 (available in widths)
Another big change is new midsole technology. Asics has integrated FlyteFoam into the Nimbus and Kayano models (among others), while Saucony has main-streamed Everun in more of their 2017 shoes. New Balance has maintained the use of FreshFoam in it’s premiere running shoes.
If it’s time for new running shoes (recommended at 450 to 550 miles or 700-900km), and you have questions about specific models or fit, feel free to reach out to your SoleScience pedorthist. Although it can be seem like a big change to switch up your model or brand of running shoes, sometimes change ca n be a great thing. Alternatively, because the spring models are an inevitable part of the shoe cycle, the previous models will go on sale prior to the launch of the newer version, so you can try to avoid change models for a little bit longer!
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