Men's Running Shoes: Running Mechanics
Examining the mechanics of your run will help you select the right pair of men's running shoes.
Consider the movement of your foot when you run. Runners seeking to counterbalance an inward or outward roll of the heel should seek shoes that provide an increased level of support.
Types of Men's Running Shoes
- Men's Neutral Running Shoes: Preserve your natural gait in lightweight footwear that provides increased shock absorption along your course. Neutral running shoes have midsole cushioning and support for added shock absorption. This type of running shoe can complement runners with medium arches but also runners with high arches and underpronation.
- Men's Stability Running Shoes: For runners who experience a mild to moderate inward roll of the foot, these styles offer additional midsole cushioning and support that curbs the foot's tendency to roll. Stability running shoes usually also feature adequate levels of medial support and can be a good option for runners with low or flat arches.
- Men's Motion Control Running Shoes: These styles offer maximum reinforced stability and support designed to prevent an exaggerated inward roll of the foot. Motion control running shoes often have extra built-in support and flatter outsoles to stabilize your foot.
- Men's Carbon-Plated Running Shoes: Carbon-plated running shoes are designed to be light and responsive with higher energy returns and a curved midsole that lifts the heel for forward momentum. This type of men's running shoe can improve endurance and reduce muscle stress, making it a good option for race runners and marathoners.
Men's Running Shoes For Different Terrains
The type of terrain and surface that you run on can help you decide which running shoes are right for you. Traditional running shoes come in a variety of styles and are generally lightweight with flexible outsoles for running on pavement, packed trails and indoor surfaces. Trail running shoes provide tread and durability with dense rubber outsoles for off-terrain areas.
Other Men's Running Shoes Features to Consider
Stack height is the distance between the ground and your foot while you are wearing the shoe. Stack height can affect shock absorption and the overall feel of your shoe, with higher stack heights usually offering more cushioning and lower stack heights offering a more natural feel.
Heel-to-toe drop is the height between the forefront and the heel of the shoe. The higher the heel drop is, the more elevated the heel is than the forefoot. If you prefer a more natural feel while running, you'll likely prefer zero-drop shoes.
For more, shop other top footwear collections at DICK'S Sporting Goods, including basketball shoes and men's winter boots.