Shoe Selection Research Articles

Sticky feet: a tribological study of climbing shoe rubber

This study examines the tribological properties of climbing shoe rubbers, challenging the common belief in the climbing community that softer rubbers are inherently grippier. This study investigates the mechanical and wear characteristics of climbing shoe rubbers by employing a high-precision modular mechanical testing environment (Bruker UMT TriboLab) and representative granite counter-surfaces. Key parameters, including surface roughness, Shore A hardness, interfacial adhesion, static and dynamic friction coefficients, and material wear patterns, were analyzed. The mechanical properties of each rubber compound were characterized through Shore A hardness testing and ball indentation–retraction tests, measuring indentation force, energy, and adhesive properties. Sliding friction tests, simulating real climbing conditions, were conducted to understand the tribological behavior of each rubber compound under different loads, further analyzing static and dynamic friction coefficients and wear characteristics. The findings of this study indicate that rubber performance is a convolution of several factors, including material hardness, surface roughness, and interfacial adhesion. Contrary to popular belief, softer rubbers did not consistently exhibit superior tribological characteristics. The findings of this study suggest that climbing shoe selection and design should consider a broader range of material characteristics beyond hardness, emphasizing the role of surface roughness and adhesion in determining overall frictional performance. This research offers valuable insights for the climbing community, providing methodologies to benchmark climbing rubber material characteristics.

How do runners select their shoes? An in-store experience

We aimed to identify factors that influence running shoe selection and how salespeople and runners experience the in-store selection process. In a cross-sectional design, we surveyed 101 runners (buyers and non-buyers) and 38 salespeople in specialty running stores. Surveys contained questions about demographics, factors influencing shoe choice, sources of footwear advice/education, conscious behaviour, and perceived influence of salespeople on selection. There were no significant differences between buyers and non-buyers regarding how much runners thought about their purchases (i.e., level of consciousness). Salespeople were significantly younger than runners and believed a greater number of factors and sources of advice influenced shoe selection. Runners most frequently identified fit, comfort, and gait analysis or injury prevention as most influential in selecting shoes, in that order. Salespeople believed comfort was the most important for runners. Buyers and non-buyers prioritised advice on running shoes from salespeople, friends, and family, while salespeople primarily got their information from peers. Buyers and non-buyers visiting speciality running stores largely reflect the same population. Salespeople advising runners significantly differed from their target clientele in several regards and overestimated their influence on runners’ selection. We caution runners to carefully consider the advice from salespeople as many employees make recommendations that are not evidence-based and may have limited experience.

A VALIDATION OF A NOVEL RUNNING ECONOMY PROTOCOL AND COMPARISON OF TWO CARBON-PLATED RUNNING SHOES IN FEMALE LONG-DISTANCE RUNNERS

INTRODUCTION Running economy (RE) is the strongest predictor of long-distance running performance in well-trained athletes (1). Carbon-plated running shoes have indicated improvements of 4% in RE when compared to previous generation non-carbon-plated running shoes (2). However, these studies have key methodological limitations; the prescribed intensities didn’t replicate race demands, the influence of fatigue was not considered, and testing was only completed on males. AIM: The primary aim of this study was to develop an appropriate protocol to measure RE in female long-distance runners. The secondary aim was to compare performance and RE of two carbon-plated performance shoes in female long-distance runners. METHODS Seven female endurance athletes (age: 30.7 ± 6.6 y, mass: 59.1 ± 5 kg, VO2max: 55.3 ± 4.1 ml/kg/min) completed a graded exercise test to establish a relative race intensity (90% of lactate threshold). Participants completed two testing sessions during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle in alternating footwear, which consisted of four 7-minute trials, a 25-minute continuous run, four 7-minute trials, and a 13-minute distance trial. RE was recorded as the oxygen consumption and energetic cost of running from minutes 5-7 of each trial. Shoe preference was recorded midway through the first session and the end of the second session. A linear mixed model was used to compare economy and performance metrics. RESULTS There was no significant difference in RE because of fatigue and no significant difference between shoes. However, large individual variations were evident. Participants reported disagreement between preferred shoe and the shoe that demonstrated greatest RE. CONCLUSION A longer protocol that controlled for the menstrual cycle did not induce fatigue related changes in female participants, supporting a higher resistance to fatigue in females (3). The individual variation between shoes suggests that further analyses should be conducted to inform shoe selection for female long-distance runners.

Application of Simple Foot Shape Measuring Device in the Process of Shoe Selection

Foot shape measurement is a key technology to obtain foot shape and size data, which is crucial for footwear design, production, and the comfort and health of consumers wearing shoes. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the method and technique of foot shape measurement and its application in footwear design and comfort evaluation. Combined with the simple foot shape measuring device designed and developed by the author, a foot shape measuring device with simple structure design and its application in the process of shoe selection are discussed. Through the comparison of different measuring equipment and the analysis of the relationship between foot shape data and footwear design, it provides a useful reference and guidance for footwear industry.

The Foot and Ankle in Ultramarathon Runners: Results of the Ultrarunners Longitudinal TRAcking (ULTRA) Study.

The foot and ankle play a critical role in ultramarathon running. Because foot and ankle injuries are the most common location of injury in this group, proper care is essential for prevention. In this sport, small issues can become big problems over such long distances, and understanding the preventative measures taken by ultramarathon runners may provide insight for other athletes looking to avoid similar problems. The purpose of this study was to examine the routine and preventative care of the foot and ankle, as well as injury rates, in this group of high-risk athletes. The Ultrarunners Longitudinal TRAcking (ULTRA) Study is the largest known prospective longitudinal study of ultramarathon runners. In this portion of the study, participants reported general health status, running behavior and performance, as well as foot and ankle care, injuries, stretching frequency, and shoewear. A total of 734 ultramarathon runners participated in the study. This group ran a median of 40.2 km per week. Overall, 71.2% of active ultramarathon runners reported a foot or ankle injury in the previous 12 months. The most common injuries reported were plantar fasciitis (36.3%), Achilles tendinitis (24.0%), nonspecific foot pain (14.0%), and stress fractures (13.4%). Sit and reach flexibility test showed that 63.7% of runners could not reach past their toes. There were no significant correlations for sit and reach flexibility or stretching frequency with injury rate. The high prevalence of foot and ankle injuries in ultramarathon runners does not appear to be influenced by arch type, foot strike pattern, orthotic usage, stretching behavior, or actual flexibility. A high percentage of the study runners used comfort as a shoe selection method, independent of alignment or foot strike pattern. These findings guide the clinician in shared decision making with runners about routine care, including injury prevention and shoe selection. Level II, prospective study.

Diabetic foot: Footwear in a management programme

Abstract Diabetic foot disease carries a major global health and socioeconomic burden. Most ulcers and amputations may be preventable if addressed early with patient education, good foot care, and attention to footwear. Multiple guidelines exist with regards to stratification of risk and choice of shoes, therapeutic footwear (TF), and offloading devices. A review of available literature suggests that low risk groups may use off-the-shelf footwear, providing they are adequately educated in optimal shoe selection. Intermediate risk groups should have specialist input and consideration of TF. High risk groups should be managed with pressure-relieving TF. In patients with an active diabetic foot ulcer, offloading devices are indicated, with non-removable knee-high devices as the gold standard treatment. Patient compliance remains a challenge to optimal management. This article seeks to outline current evidence and consensus-based guidance with regards to footwear use in the prevention and treatment of the diabetic foot.

Active Ingredients and Natural Raw Materials Used in Foot Care in Diabetic Patients—A Literature Review

Diabetic foot syndrome is the leading cause of limb loss due to non-healing ulcers. Repeated injuries, abnormal foot loads, and ischemia lead to ulcers. Poor shoe selection and inadequate care worsen the situation. Lack of patient education contributes to bacterial infections, tissue necrosis, and amputation. Vigilant observation and regular care can reduce wound size and prevent new wounds. Cleansing, infection control, and pressure relief are crucial in diabetic foot treatment. In this review, the effect of selected active ingredients and natural raw materials used for topical application in the care of diabetic foot was analyzed. The main focus used was on ingredients of natural origin—research studies utilizing emollients, humectants, plant extracts, and animal-derived ingredients were discussed. In addition, research studies on the application of nanomaterials, ozone and stem cells are also discussed. The cosmetics industry and manufacturers of podiatric products play a vital role in diabetic care. They should prioritize proper formulation, optimal ingredient doses, and skin microbiome control. Educating diabetics and using cosmetic products with self-massage elements can reduce the risk of hard-to-heal ulcers.

Shoe configuration effects on third phalanx and capsule motion of unaffected and laminitic equine hooves in-situ.

Equine shoes provide hoof protection and support weakened or damaged hoof tissues. Two hypotheses were tested in this study: 1) motion of the third phalanx (P3) and hoof wall deformation are greater in laminitic versus unaffected hooves regardless of shoe type; 2) P3 displacement and hoof wall deformation are greatest while unshod (US), less with open-heel (OH), then egg-bar (EB) shoes, and least with heart-bar (HB) shoes for both hoof conditions. Distal forelimbs (8/condition) were subjected to compressive forces (1.0x102-5.5x103 N) while a real-time motion detection system recorded markers on P3 and the hoof wall coronary band, vertical midpoint, and solar margin. Magnitude and direction of P3 displacement and changes in proximal and distal hemi-circumference, quarter and heel height and proximal and distal heel width were quantified. Hoof condition and shoe effects were assessed with 2-way ANOVA (p<0.05). P3 displacement was greater in laminitic hooves when US or with OH, and EB and HB reduced P3 displacement in laminitic hooves. P3 displacement was similar among shoes in unaffected hooves and greatest in laminitic hooves with OH, then US, EB and HB. EB and HB increased P3 displacement from the dorsal wall in unaffected hooves and decreased it in laminitic hooves. OH and EB increased P3 motion from the coronary band in laminitic hooves, and HB decreased P3 motion toward the solar margin in unaffected and laminitic hooves. In laminitic hooves, HB reduced distal hemi-circumference and quarter deformation and increased heel deformation and expansion. Proximal hemi-circumference constriction was inversely related to proximal heel expansion with and without shoes. Overall, shoe configuration alters hoof deformation distinctly between unaffected and laminitic hooves, and HB provided the greatest P3 stability in laminitic hooves. These unique results about P3 motion and hoof deformation in laminitic and unaffected hooves inform shoe selection and design.

Hallux Valgus Repair with Chevron Osteotomy Significantly Narrows Forefoot Width

Hallux valgus (HV) is a common adult foot deformity. There is uncertainty concerning the effect of HV surgery on foot width. We examined the effect of chevron first metatarsal osteotomy on forefoot width using calibrated pre and postoperative standing radiographs. A retrospective cohort of 50 patients underwent chevron osteotomy HV surgery. All had HVA > 30°, IMA > 11°, DMMA > 3°, >6-month follow-up, and calibrated pre and postoperative standing foot radiographs. Bony width (BW) and soft tissue width (STW) were used to measure the surgery's effect on foot width. Measurements were made preoperatively and 3-6 months following surgery. The study group included 42 women with an average age of 63.4 (±8.3) and a mean BMI of 28.7 (±4.9). Preoperative HVA and IMA were 31.7° (±6.8°) and 13.4° (±2.8°), respectively. Following surgery, HVA and IMA improved significantly, by 15.6° (±5.7°) and 8.7° (±2.3°), respectively. The preoperative average BW was 9.4 cm (±0.6), and the STW was 10.6 cm (±0.7). Following surgery, significant changes in BW and STW were measured, with a mean narrowing of 1.2 cm (±0.4) in BW (p < 0.001) and 0.95 cm (±0.5) in STW (p < 0.001). Paradoxically, an increase in age led to a lower correction of the IMA (p = 0.04, r = 0.57), but higher BW and STW reductions (p = 0.01, r = 0.35 and p = 0.008, r = 0.37, respectively). This study reinforced chevron osteotomy as a valid treatment option that significantly narrows forefoot width; it is thus expected to improve cosmetic outcomes, shoe selection options, and quality of life. This study also found that older age correlates with better forefoot narrowing following hallux valgus repair, possibly due to stiffer soft tissues.

Description of Nurse Perceptions Regarding Anthropometric Shoes Based on Characteristics of Shoe Selection

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) occur more frequently in nurses than other health workers. Choosing the right shoes is very important for nurses to reduce the risk of foot injuries and problems with the musculoskeletal system. This study aims to identify nurses' perceptions of anthropometric shoes based on the characteristics of shoe selection. Methods: The research design uses quantitative methods with quantitative descriptive research types. The population in this study was 135 nurses at Dr Hasan Sadikin General Hospital. Using a proportional stratified random sampling technique, a sample of 100 nurses was obtained. Results: Results of the study show the basic shape criteria were 93 nurses (93%) choosing the right size, judging by the comfort criteria, 80 nurses (80%) chose the light weight of the shoes, 80 nurses (80%) chose the shoes to fit in the shoe safety criteria, 73 nurses (73%) chose shoes that have a function in various weather conditions and shoe resistance during activities, shoes that can be used many times were chosen by 90 nurses (90%) on the criteria for environmentally friendly shoes and 68 nurses (68%) chose shoes with standard prices. Conclusions: Nurses' perceptions of anthropometric shoes are based on the characteristics of selecting nurse shoes based on basic shapes that fit are comfortable, lightweight, safe, function in various weather conditions, are resistant to various activities, can be used repeatedly, are environmentally friendly, and have affordable prices. Based on the characteristics of the shoes, most nurses choose the basic shape of the shoes that fit. Abstrak: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) banyak terjadi pada perawat dibandingkan tenaga kesehatan lainnya. Pemilihan sepatu yang tepat sangat penting dilakukan oleh perawat guna mengurangi resiko cedera pada kaki dan timbulnya masalah pada sistem muskuloskeletal. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi persepsi perawat tentang sepatu antropometri berdasarkan karakteristik pemilihan sepatu. Metode: Rancangan penelitian menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan jenis penelitian deskriptif kuantitatif. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah 135 perawat pelaksana RSUP Dr. Hasan Sadikin Bandung. Sampel 100 perawat diambil menggunakan teknik proportional stratified random sampling. Hasil: Berdasarkan hasil penelitian menunjukkan kriteria bentuk dasar sebanyak 93 orang perawat (93%) memilih ukuran yang pas, dilihat dari kriteria kenyamanan sebanyak 80 orang perawat (80%) memilih berat ringannya sepatu, 80 orang perawat (80%) memilih sepatu harus fit/ pas dalam kriteria keamanan sepatu, sebanyak 73 orang perawat (73%) memilih sepatu yang memiliki fungsi pada kondisi beragam cuaca dan ketahanan sepatu saat beraktifitas, sepatu yang dapat digunakan berkali-kali dipilih 90 orang perawat (90%) pada kriteria sepatu ramah lingkungan dan 68 orang perawat (68%) memilih sepatu dengan harga standar. Kesimpulan: Persepsi perawat mengenai sepatu antropometri berdasarkan karakteristik pemilihan sepatu perawat berdasarkan bentuk dasar yang pas, nyaman, ringan, aman, berfungsi dalam berbagai kondisi cuaca , tahan terhadap berbagai aktivitas, dapat dipakai berulang kali,ramah lingkungan dan memiliki harga yang terjangkau. Berdasarkan karakteristik sepatu, sebagian besar perawat memilih bentuk dasar sepatu yang sesuai atau pas.

Examination of a foot mounted IMU-based methodology for a running gait assessment.

Gait assessment is essential to understand injury prevention mechanisms during running, where high-impact forces can lead to a range of injuries in the lower extremities. Information regarding the running style to increase efficiency and/or selection of the correct running equipment, such as shoe type, can minimize the risk of injury, e.g., matching a runner's gait to a particular set of cushioning technologies found in modern shoes (neutral/support cushioning). Awareness of training or selection of the correct equipment requires an understanding of a runner's biomechanics, such as determining foot orientation when it strikes the ground. Previous work involved a low-cost approach with a foot-mounted inertial measurement unit (IMU) and an associated zero-crossing-based methodology to objectively understand a runner's biomechanics (in any setting) to learn about shoe selection. Here, an investigation of the previously presented ZC-based methodology is presented only to determine general validity for running gait assessment in a range of running abilities from novice (8 km/h) to experienced (16 km/h+). In comparison to Vicon 3D motion tracking data, the presented approach can extract pronation, foot strike location, and ground contact time with good [ICC(2,1) > 0.750] to excellent [ICC(2,1) > 0.900] agreement between 8–12 km/h runs. However, at higher speeds (14 km/h+), the ZC-based approach begins to deteriorate in performance, suggesting that other features and approaches may be more suitable for faster running and sprinting tasks.

The Importance of Shoe Selection.

The Importance of Shoe Selection.

The Importance of Shoe Selection: Clinical Practice Alert.

The Importance of Shoe Selection: Clinical Practice Alert.

The optimization of orthopedic providing of patients based on automated shoe selection and principles of customization

The use of automated “virtual” or contactless fitting technologies is especially relevant when selecting uncomplicated orthopedic footwear of mass or serial production for people with disabilities. However, for the automated selection of such shoes, existing solutions are difficult to apply for a number of reasons; it is necessary to take into account the peculiarities of the pathology, the parameters of special orthopedic details, the conditions of use and other factors. Mass customization is becoming an effective approach to individualizing goods for daily use — making products taking into account the individual needs of the consumer using the possibilities of mass or serial production. The intensive development of data transmission and processing technologies, modern manufacturing methods based on the use of digital computer modeling and design technologies creates an opportunity to reform the established approach to the individual production of orthopedic shoes using customization principles. However, it also requires a transformation of in-house organizational processes and traditional hand-made algorithms. The purpose of the study is to develop a concept of customizing orthopedic footwear that meets an optimal approach to orthopedic providing for patients. The article presents a conceptual model of customization, which shows a new approach to orthopedic providing of patients. An algorithm for the selection of orthopedic footwear is proposed, which is implemented using the developed methodology for a complex assessment of the degree of correspondence between the parameters of the inner shape of the footwear and the anthropometric data of the feet. The authors have developed a customization system, in which, based on the calculated complex matching factor, orders are distributed according to the complexity level of customization or manufacturing and are made using special customization types. The use of the results obtained is proposed on the basis of a developed database to automate the calculation of the assessment and selection of models. The suggested scientifically-based approach allows solving a wide range of problems associated with the selection of shoes in a number of fields. Possibilities for the application of the obtained research results are proposed.

METHODOLOGY OF AUTOMATED SELECTION OF FOOTWEAR IN THE TASKS OF SUPPORTING DECISION MAKING IN ORTHOPEDIC PROVIDING OF PATIENTS

Nowadays, customization is becoming an increasingly applicable approach for the individualization of goods made in mass production. Another trend is the technology of virtual, or contactless, shoe fitting, aimed at selecting goods in accordance with the individual anthropometric parameters of customers' feet. The article is considered to the presentation of the results of scientific developments in the field of optimization of orthopedic providing of patients using customization approaches and conceptual solutions of contactless shoe fitting technologies. As part of the study, an algorithm of shoe selection and a method for assessment of matching the internal shape of the shoe to the patient’s feet measurements have been developed. The possibilities and conditions for the application of the results obtained in the tasks of supporting orthopedic specialists in the orthopedic providing of patients on the basis of data mining in the implementation of the automated remote selection of shoes and ordering for custom shoes are presented. The reported study was funded by RFBR, project number 19-37-90152.

Use of in-shoe pressure to quantify running shoe fit

Shoe fit is an important factor in running shoe selection. Comfort, which is likely associated with fit perception, may play a role in running economy and injury prevention (Nigg, 2015). Limited sl...

Complications Associated With Midline Incision for Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy.

The midline-incision trans-achillary approach (MITA) is frequently used for addressing all pathologies of insertional Achilles tendinopathy (IAT). The aim of this study was to assess the complication rate and possible influencing factors following a MITA for IAT treatment. Presented is a retrospective cohort study with current follow-up. Patients treated surgically by a MITA, addressing all pathologies of IAT, between January 2010 and October 2016 at a single reference center with at least 12 months of follow-up were included. General demographics (age, sex, and body mass index), medical history, surgical details (individual and sum of pathologies addressed), and duration of in-hospital stay were assessed. Patient satisfaction, shoe conflict, current employment status, time to return to sports, and type of sports were recorded using a custom questionnaire. Standard statistics, chi-square, and t tests were performed using SPSS. A total of 118 patients (follow-up, 63.4%) with a mean age (± SD) of 50 ± 12 years and a mean final follow-up time (± SD) of 4.2 ± 2.1 were included. Fourteen percent of patients had a minor complication, the majority (75%) of which were surgical site infections. Forty-one percent were limited in their shoe selection, and 32% reported a shoe conflict. Seventy-eight percent were very satisfied, and 89% would recommend the surgery. Neither the individual surgical procedures, their sum, nor any other parameter showed a significant influence on the complication rate. The only factor negatively affecting patient satisfaction was a shoe conflict (P < .001). The MITA for IAT treatment showed a moderate minor complication rate with good midterm patient satisfaction. However, the approach might predispose patients to shoe conflict, which negatively influences their satisfaction. Level IV, retrospective cohort study.

Ultramarathon Comprehensive Injury Prevention

This paper aims to review injury prevention for ultramarathon runners during training, race day, and recovery. Injury prevention starts with a training plan that emphasizes a gradual increase in distance interspersed with speed work, long runs, strength training, and active recovery. Pre-race training environment that mirrors race day terrain and climate is preferred. Customized nutrition and hydration strategies are recommended. Further research is needed regarding various carbohydrate/fat nutrition strategies. There are numerous reviews of ultramarathon running-related injuries, which often include discussion on symptoms, treatment options, and how to improve race day performance. This review rather focuses on recent findings in ultramarathon injury prevention including pre-participation screening, training recommendations, shoe selection, foot strike patterns, blisters, and environmental issues. Pre-race and race day nutrition is highlighted with a discussion on high-carbohydrate low-fat diet vs. low-carbohydrate high-fat diets. Prevention of gastrointestinal distress and exercise-associated hyponatremia are also reviewed.

Does the Shoe Fit? Considerations for Proper Shoe Fitting.

It is important to be properly evaluated for shoes to avoid complications. Ill-fitting shoes can lead to pathologies in different populations. The focus of this article is to review the components and function of a basic athletic-type shoe, general shoe-fitting techniques, and selecting appropriate footwear for various populations including those with diabetes, elderly, and females. Poorly fitting shoes can exacerbate structural foot deformities. Unevenly distributed plantar pressures and wear can lead to ulcerations in diabetic populations. Resources and transportation may impact the elderly population when obtaining new shoes. Esthetics is of superior consideration for females. The Brannock Device measurements are important to ensure a correct fit in guiding shoe selection. The orthopaedic nurse should be able to recognize foot ailments caused by ill-fitting shoe gear. Seeking the advice of a podiatrist should be considered before purchasing shoes.

Points of Shoe Selection Guidance for Patients with Hallux Valgus

Points of Shoe Selection Guidance for Patients with Hallux Valgus