Abstract
Objective: Our study aim is to identify and describe the definitions used for different types of running shoes. In addition, we highlight the existence of gaps in these concepts and propose possible new approaches. Methods: This review was undertaken in line with the guidelines proposed by Green et al., based on a literature search (until December 2019) of the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, SPORTDiscus and Google Scholar databases. A total of 23 papers met the inclusion criteria applied to identify the definition of running shoes. Results: Although there is a certain consensus on the characteristics of minimalist footwear, it is also described by other terms, such as barefoot-style or barefoot-simulating. Diverse terms are also used to describe other types of footwear, and in these cases, there is little or no consensus regarding their characteristics. Conclusions: The terms barefoot-simulated footwear, barefoot-style footwear, lightweight shoes and full minimalist shoes are all used to describe minimalist footwear. The expressions partial minimalist, uncushioned minimalist and transition shoes are used to describe footwear with non-consensual characteristics. Finally, labels such as shod shoes, standard cushioned running shoes, modern shoes, neutral protective running shoes, conventional, standardised, stability style or motion control shoes span a large group of footwear styles presenting different properties.
Highlights
The exclusion criteria were: (1) Studies in which the sports shoe studied was identified by brand and model but not by type, according to the classifications currently used in the literature; (2) Papers that analysed biomechanics and running techniques
The aim of this study is to examine the different definitions of running shoes used in scientific literature on this subject
This review showed that running shoes are described in many ways, with different terms sometimes referring to the same type of footwear [42]
Summary
As a sports discipline, running has been widely studied in terms of injuries, economy of movement, health improvements, etc. [1,2,3], and the footwear needed for this activity has evolved at a dramatic rate [4].Currently, most runners choose to wear shoes, but despite the development of shoes aimed at improving performance and reducing injuries, in recent years the interest in running barefoot [5] or minimally shod [6] has increased considerably.Many studies have been conducted to determine how barefoot, minimalist or standard running affects parameters such as biomechanics and overload [7,8], but in referring to these aspects of running, it is not always clear what characteristics of the footwear are assumed to be present in each case and what nomenclature should be employed.the characteristics of footwear termed “minimalist” are basically accepted among experts. As a sports discipline, running has been widely studied in terms of injuries, economy of movement, health improvements, etc. Most runners choose to wear shoes, but despite the development of shoes aimed at improving performance and reducing injuries, in recent years the interest in running barefoot [5] or minimally shod [6] has increased considerably. Many studies have been conducted to determine how barefoot, minimalist or standard running affects parameters such as biomechanics and overload [7,8], but in referring to these aspects of running, it is not always clear what characteristics of the footwear are assumed to be present in each case and what nomenclature should be employed. The characteristics of footwear termed “minimalist” are basically accepted among experts. Such shoes are those presenting minimal interference with the natural movement of the foot, Int. J. Public Health 2020, 17, 3562; doi:10.3390/ijerph17103562 www.mdpi.com/journal/ijerph
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