MD Podiatrist Advises How to Buy a Running Shoe With Arch Support

         
 
Dan Michaels, DPM says that to determine whether or not someone needs arch support, one should perform “The Wet Test,” which involves stepping on a piece of paper with wet feet and then evaluating the imprint. If there is a skinny question mark-like imprint, this indicates a high arch, while an oval-like imprint is indicative of a low arched foot. An in-between imprint would be a normal arch.
 
Dr. Michaels adds that running shoes should be snug in the width and arch, not tight, and there should be 3/8 of an inch from the end of the longest toe to the end of the shoe. He notes the best insole materials, or orthotics, are usually a thermoplastic for sneakers. The midsole of running shoes is often made of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), while the toe box of running shoes is usually composed of synthetic mesh.