The Update – Spring 2018

The Shoe Update Spring 2018

Table of Contents

Commentary

Shoe Construction – Terminology and Definitions

How to Choose the Right Pair of – Putting Fit First

The Race to the Sub 2-hour Marathon – vs Nike

The New Age Flip Flop – Improved support with traditional convenience

Shoe Charts - An in-depth, categorized look at what’s new

Key Models – Your categorized model cheat sheet

LadySport FitFirst 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Commentary As we celebrate the 35th anniversary of LadySport and the 5th birthday of FitFirst, there are many pleasant memories for us to look back on. Of course, the connections our staff has made over the years with customers, suppliers and partners stand out among the rest!

Since we first opened, footwear has changed only slightly as compared to the broader world, which has transformed significantly. Our daily lives are continually being modified by new technologies that are geared towards efficiency. Such “advances,” like cell phones and door-to- door delivery, dilute the need for human contact and in turn challenge us to stay connected with others in meaningful, face-to-face ways. Of the many potential issues this shift gives rise to, one significant danger is that our society will become even more sedentary and reclusive than it already is.

We can now buy almost anything we want from anywhere, at any time, and have it delivered to our door. While certainly convenient, is this what is best for us? We at LadySport and FitFirst believe that when it comes to our overall health and well-being, the physical and social effort of getting out the door to share our personal space and time is important.

Our hope is that by working with you as part of your integrated health team, we can encourage your clients to seek out face-to-face advice and solutions for their specific circumstances. Your expertise combined with our breadth and depth of knowledge in footwear and fittings will help clients to stay active and healthy for as long as possible. Our aim over the past 3 decades has been to provide friendly and thorough counsel for customers seeking that perfect pair of shoes. By working in closer contact with your team, we hope to enhance our stores’ environments and by extension our customers’ experiences for another 3 decades!

We’d love to know what you think! Let us know where you believe service, product knowledge and a friendly smile fit in a successful treatment strategy. It would be great to hear your thoughts and learn more about how we can continue to deliver a service that brings value to you and your patients!

The ultimate goal has to be more than just selling someone a pair of shoes!

Thank you,

Phil, Brett, Evan

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Shoe Construction Terminology and Definitions Motion Control To be deemed worthy of the term motion control, the shoe should have at least six of the following ten features: 1. Thermoplastic Heel Counter 2. Medial Midsole Plug 3. Torsional Rigidity 4. Straight Last 5. Motion Control Collar 6. External Arch Support 7. Medial Strapping/Upper 8. Broad Sole Plate 9. Firm Midsole 10. Heel Counter Medial Extension

Numbers (1), (2), and (3) are virtual necessities to classify a shoe as "motion control". The label of motion control is difficult to achieve, and rarely given to any shoe other than a running shoe. The reason is because running shoes are designed to take issue with the biomechanical peculiarities of the heel-toe gait pattern under high impact. Problems resulting from misalignment due to excessive pronation during this gait pattern are well-documented (ex. patella-femoral syndrome, plantar fasciitis, etc.). Shoe designers and biomechanists are very conscious of foot type when building these shoes, so motion control is usually front and centre. With cross-trainers, tennis shoes, basketball shoes, and others, sport specific attributes are more important to the designer than are the mechanical or foot specific features. Therefore, true motion control is a rare commodity outside of the running market. More pronation control walkers and running oriented cross-trainers will likely be introduced in the near future as the population ages, and consumers become more cerebral about even the most recreational of purchases: their .

Stability I define stability as a relatively straight lasted shoe that has many of the qualities of a motion control shoe, with torsional rigidity, a strong heel counter and firm midsole. Where it differs is that it is less pronounced in its medial posting. Instead of a plastic plug or post, it has only dense medial foam (eg. Asics Duomax). In other words, a pronation control shoe without LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018 the exclamation mark! The designers clearly have the excessive pronator in mind, but are trying to create a nicer ride without too much control. Some feel that the chance for lateral midsole collapse is reduced because the difference in density of the midsole, from medial to lateral, is less than in the classic motion control shoe. Many orthotic providers are reluctant to put their orthotics in shoes with medial posting. The denser medial column may influence the correction of the orthotic, and with extended wear, cause premature collapse of the lateral rear midsole. This fear of lateral collapse may be as much from design influences on the rear-foot, aimed at slowing the rate of pronation as from the medial posting. See the attached article for more on lateral heel design evolution.

Neutral Supportive In this style, the last shape and firmness of the lateral midsole column is similar to that found in most stability shoes. The difference here is there is no dense medial midsole material of any kind. The entire midsole is quite firm, to act as a supportive foundation for an orthotic or the impact of a heavier/harder heel strike. Neutral supportive is the most common referral category for orthotics, as the platform is the same on both sides. One thing to keep in mind is that if the lateral column is soft, then the shoe may collapse to the outside, regardless of the presence of any denser medial posting. Firm lateral columns made of dense EVA or, even better, polyurethane may be the answer. So, if the orthotic provider needs a little extra from the shoe some medial posting in the right shoe may prove useful. Just ask that the lateral midsole be appropriately firm to last the life of the shoe.

Neutral Cushion Slightly more curve lasted, but not necessarily more torsionally flexible. The midsole is softer than a neutral supportive shoe and has a more squishy, bouncy ride. An orthotic wearer who has some shock attenuation issues may do better here than in a neutral supportive model.

Flexible and Ultra Cushioned A forgotten category! It seems that torsional flexibility in the midfoot and marshmallow soft midsoles are a thing of the past, possibly because designers think that torsional flexibility does not necessarily help a rigid cavus foot to pronate. Therefore, they support it into the midfoot and give it lots of shock attenuation. That would mean one should fit that cavus foot in a standard cushion shoe above.

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Minimalist Running A minimalist running shoe has a combination of features that differentiate it from a traditional runner. 1. The ramp angle, or drop, is less than 10 mm. Drops are usually 4-8 mm, but can be as low as 0 mm. 2. Lightweight – These shoes are lighter weight, much of that due to the reduction in the midsole. Minimalist (Natural) This minimalist category is defined by its torsional flexibility and lack of supportive upper. The midsole flexes in all planes, and the heel counter is often non-existent. Minimalist (Traditional) This minimalist category is defined by its traditional torsional rigidity and supportive upper. The midsole doesn’t flex in all planes and the heel counter is firm.

Last Type The last is the mold around which the shoe is made. It influences many things about the shoe including, most importantly, the fit and support. A shoe is designed around a last just like a dress is designed around a pattern. The last is the culmination of all the designer’s wants and needs with respect to the fit of the shoe. Now depending on the materials chosen and the manufacturing process, the end result may or may not reflect the last mandate, but when the same mold is used there is a greater chance of consistency. Straight lasted shoes generally provide superior support for the pes planus, or flatter foot, a common excessive pronator. The curved last is often associated with the cavus, or high rigid arched foot, and can commonly be sculpted or dished away under the long arch, making the shoe torsionally more flexible. Lasts that are neither very straight, nor very curved can be denoted semi-curved (SC), as even the straightest of the straight lasts used in athletic shoes have a curve of approximately 8 degrees.

Board Last, Slip Last & Strobel Last When manufacturing a shoe, there are 3 basic ways to laminate the upper to the midsole or foamy base of the shoe: 1. Board lasting is where the sides of the upper of the shoe are tucked under a board and the board is glued to the midsole holding the two together. This board usually stops just LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

before the metatarsals. From here the sides of the upper are joined together, sewn and glued down. The board creates increased torsional rigidity in the rearfoot with maximum flexibility in the forefoot. 2. Slip lasting is what occurred in the forefoot of example (1). The upper is sewn together as one piece from heel to toe; negating the need for a board to bind the sides of the upper. This or slip lasting is used in some shoes from heel to toe to increase flexibility and aid in achieving a snug contoured fit to the foot. 3. Strobel lasting is now the most popular way to construct an upper. It is really a modification of the slip last. It’s like sewing a flat insole around its outer edge to the rest of the upper. The midsole sits on this sole-shaped piece of material. Companies are using midsole materials for this base piece to get enhanced cushioning in the shoe.

Combination Lasting A method of lasting where the forefoot is slip lasted and the rearfoot is board lasted. This allows for flexibility in the forefoot and extra support in the rearfoot. Combination lasting is mostly used to add torsional rigidity in shoes. In the charts we say “board lasting” as a short form for combination pronators.

Midsole The midsole is the area between the upper and the outersole of the shoe. Usually made of EVA pre-compressed foam or polyurethane, this is where all the shock-absorbing bells and whistles are housed. Air bags, hexalite gel, etc., along with the foam, helps to attenuate the shock while its firmness or softness dictates the shoe’s rating for stability, rigidity and often its motion control capabilities. It is also here that densities of material are varied to increase medial control and forefoot flexibility depending on the durometer, or firmness, of the material that is chosen and placed in key areas of the shoe.

Dual Density Midsole A firmer density of EVA located on the medial side of the midsole which guards against premature medial midsole breakdown, common to excessive pronators.

Medial Post Lodged into the medial, or inside aspect, side of the midsole are firm plastic or urethane plugs that keep the foams from collapsing under the extra pressure exerted by excessive

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018 pronation. In some cases, this plug is an integral part of the heel counter and acts as a restrictive post and a control mechanism for rearfoot pronation. In other cases, the post is simply a firmer, higher density material on the medial aspect of the shoe. Many posts are now incorporated as part of the midfoot shank (see below) and extend into the medial midsole. Posts are rarely found in the forefoot.

Midfoot Shanks Companies have a variety of proprietary names for their midfoot shanks, which separate the forefoot from the rearfoot of the shoe. It allows the designer to cut away part of the midsole, and replace it with a hard, lightweight hytrel plastic, reducing the weight of the shoe, while enhancing torsional rigidity. Asics uses two trusstic plates, with a space between them, so that the midstance and foot sink towards the ground, enhancing the windlass effect of the shoe (See the Asics website for more info on the Space Trusstic System).

Exceptional Heel Counter The formed thermoplastic cup inside the heel portion of the upper of the shoe is the most important structural part of any piece of footwear. All control begins and ends with this feature. Some models have plastic or molded collars added externally to the heel counter that reinforce it and/or hook into the medial posts; these are deemed worthy of the label exceptional! Rarely does a running shoe make it on the wall without this feature. Some are bombproof, but most are very good.

Decoupled Heel One of the early design efforts to slow the rate of pronation was to put a slice through the outsole and a bit of the midsole of a runner at an acute angle to allow the heel to decouple upon heel strike, thus reducing the lever arm at that moment. The outsole and midsole would widen out, creating less lateral collapse of the midsole, and a broader base of support. This was a revolutionary feature which, though it has evolved, is around in some form in all technical running models. Adidas has taken the concept the furthest by almost hinging this section so that it truly decouples at heel strike.

Foot Bed This term refers to the insole of the shoe, which, though made with numerous types of materials, essentially acts as a comfortable liner for the shoe. Rarely does it enhance support, and

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018 it is often replaced by an off-the-shelf arch support or a custom orthotic. Almost all of the better athletic shoes have this removable insert. Manufacturers should dedicate more time and money to making this a useful, supportive accessory.

Foot Frame/Cupsole In shoes which are designed for court or lateral activity, the midsole is molded up the side of the foot at key stress areas to aid in keeping the foot over the sole plate, decreasing the risk of inversion sprain and lateral breakdown of the shoe. The feature is found in court shoes (when made properly) and in cross-trainers.

Saddle This is the area of the upper that wraps the arch, the portion of the shoe that the eyelets are cut into. Often the company logo is placed here and sewn in such a way to enhance the midfoot support of the shoe. Plastics are sometimes used to add substance to this region, but at the cost of fit. Some are using cables, hooked into the eyelets to gain support as the shoe is laced up.

Toe Spring The amount of upward tilt of the toe of the shoe, internally defined by the last used to create that shoe. The greater the toe spring of the shoe, the more the toes are dorsiflexed. The toe spring is often part of the overall rocker profile (see definition below) of the shoe.

Rocker The rocker is defined by the amount of taper in the midsole. Forefoot rocker is made by tapering the midsole at the ball of the foot, thinning it out distally. The apex of the rocker can be set at different points, measured as a percentage of the length of the shoe. A forefoot rocker set at 60% of the length from heel to toe will affect the pressure relief at the metatarsals differently than one set at 80%, or closer to the toe of the shoe. The same principle applies to rear foot rockers in reverse, and effects different biomechanics.

Rocker Profile The rocker profile of a shoe is a combination of rocker tapering and toe spring. This is the usual term used to describe most off-the-shelf running and walking shoes.

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The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Drop The drop of a shoe is the difference in height of the between the heel and the ball of the foot.

Ramp angle The ramp angle of a shoe is the angle that the shoe pitches forward from heel to toe.

Stack Height The stack height of a shoe is the height from the bottom of the shoe sole to the bottom of the foot in the shoe. That is, the addition of the thickness of the outer sole, midsole, and insole.

Stretchable Uppers Traditional upper materials like leather and synthetic leathers, which have a limited amount of give, are being combined with 4 way stretchable materials, including Lycra and spandex, to help accommodate foot abnormalities (bunions, hammer toes, claw toes, etc.). XSensible footwear combines thin leather or suede skins with a combination of Lycra and spandex to create orthopaedic magic in a dress casual shoe. Athletic suppliers are also using stretchable material insets to accommodate protruding Taylor’s bunions. Some orthopaedic companies like Propet, Pedor, and P.W. Minor are making shoes with completely elastic toe boxes, which are useful for fitting individuals with diabetes or arthritic feet.

Rocker Soles The most popular prescription right now is for a stiff rocker soled shoe to help manage many forms of metatarsalgia. Many types of athletic designs increase the “rocker profile” or “toe spring” of the shoe and the toe of the shoe often appears slightly “turned up”. When this “rocker profile” is combined with a lack of flexibility, a rocker sole effect is often achieved. True rocker soles are internally flat and have a rocker that is apexed in the forefoot. Some shoes have a heel/toe rocker whose shape is much like that of a rocking horse. In these shoe designs, the toes sit in a dorsi-flexed position when the foot is bearing weight. This is a very useful strategy for limiting movement at the metatarsals and can act like a splint for the forefoot, while letting the individual ambulate normally.

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Hokas and “Maximalism” Developed by a European trail runner, this platform “moonboot” running shoe is winning trail runs all over Europe. Its application here is far more often as an orthopaedic device to manage metatarsalgia in the general population. The stiff rockered thick sole provides an extremely light weight and cushioned base that is stable and supportive. By splinting the forefoot there is minimal flex at the MT heads and relief for the neuroma, hallux rigidus, and rheumatoid arthritis sufferer. Goofy looking, but it can put a smile on the face of the crankiest foot! Skeletal Heel Counter In some cases, heel counters are being minimalized by removing some of the girth of the counter leaving only a skeletal framework to support the rearfoot. This is done primarily to reduce weight, and promoted as being just as strong as the traditional “bomb proof” heel counters celebrated for their control of rearfoot motion. You be the judge!

Minimalism The barefoot movement created a visceral response by the athletic shoe manufacturers to develop a “new” category of shoes called “minimalist” footwear! Unlike the traditional jogging shoe which has a fairly consistent midsole heel to toe grade of 12mm (eg. 24 mm heel height and 12 mm forefoot height), minimalist shoe grades are anywhere from 0 mm to 8 mm. The shoe heights from the ground are as varied as the number of styles. In some way,s the variety of heel heights can be useful as long as one knows what they are putting their feet into. Recommending styles to patients becomes a daunting task with all these different measurements! The idea behind wearing “less shoe” is the conventional running shoe and its progressive pronation control systems are causing more harm than good. Feet were made to move freely and are therefore stronger and more efficient when left unshod. With the minimalist shoe, the gait returns to a more natural midfoot strike and many injuries are avoided. Which injuries, and who exactly are candidates for this strategy is the million-dollar question! Most minimalist shoes are recommended as an adjunct to your traditional footwear. You are to introduce it gradually and see if indeed “less” is “more”. So far, a lack of education and compliance has been the biggest hurdle, but with a well-designed strategy and the right amount of minimalism… sometimes the most stubborn problem is only a “minimalist “step away! There are two main categories of minimalist shoes, Tradition and Barefoot. 1. Traditional Minimalism: Some shoes have the traditional heel counter support and torsional rigidity; they are just thinner and more “minimal” in that respect. These shoes are a throwback to the old racing & training shoes of the late ‘70s. LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Running with an athletic midfoot strike has always been the ideal gait pattern for this style of footwear. One should be aware of the reduced heel height and possible extra strain on the Achilles and gastroc/soleus. A good example of a traditional minimalist shoe is the 1400, or the Cortana.

2. Barefoot Minimalism: This type of minimalist shoe is, in the same design way, attempting to create more freedom of movement by minimalizing the amount of support in the shoe. This is usually done by all but eliminating a heel counter and designing the midsole/outsole to be torsionally flexible, thus mimicking a shoeless scenario. The midsole thickness and heel grade can vary significantly, but are usually relatively low profile.

The Nike Free is a barefoot minimalist shoe category developed by Nike which allows maximum foot flexibility in all planes while still offering protection with some cushioning and a -like upper. The idea is to allow the athlete an opportunity to exercise the foot, increase proprioception, and build intrinsic strength. It is suggested to initially use in conjunction with your regular footwear, as a training tool for your feet. There are two main styles of the Free shoes; the 5.0 and the 3.0. The 5.0 is thicker than the 3.0, and is built with a 7 mm grade. The 3.0 is one step closer to being shoeless, with its low profile and narrower midfoot. The Vibram Five Fingers line is another example of barefoot minimalist shoes. The Five Fingers is a foot covering where the toes go into five finger-like sleeves. This shoe line is a staple for the barefoot fundamentalist.

3. Minimalism Guidance: For a complete guide to Minimalist shoes and a minimalist shoe rating scale visit …… therunningclinic.com. On the shoe charts in the shoe update we have used their minimalist ratings to help you differentiate one minimalist model from another. At the back of the shoe update you will find a helpful flow chart showing the transition times recommended for those desiring to move to more minimalist footwear from their traditional supportive shoes. Notice the extensive adaptation time required to even have a chance of success. The body needs time to adapt and the runner must understand the requirements for success. Keep in mind that LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

the founders of the runningclinic.com do favor the minimalist approach to running but also realize that many acute foot and ankle pathologies may need more support and cushioning in at least the short term. Sharing philosophies and listening to varied points of view and research is fundamental in having a healthy holistic approach to problem solving!

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

How to Choose the Right Pair of Shoes These days, with thousands of different models of shoes on the market, it is virtually impossible for consumers to select on their own, the most appropriate brand and model for their individual foot type and function. Inappropriate, ill-fitting, or worn out shoes can increase the chance of injury. As well, over time shoes lose their stability and capacity to absorb shock which can dramatically increase stress to your feet and legs. These added stresses could lead to blisters and calluses as well as contribute to lower limb overuse injuries causing heel, arch and shin pain. Foot shape is only one factor which determines the type of athletic shoes that is best for you. FitFirst Footwear strives to stay on top of the latest trends and technologies and are there to assist with fit and recommend the most appropriate running and walking shoe for your foot type. Whether you are training for a certain event, getting ready for summer activities, or working your way back from an injury, our store’s staff is here to help! Shoes Matter: • Many Studies show that our quality of life is directly related to remaining active, with a long list of benefits from preventing heart disease to improving mental health. Proper fitting and functioning footwear is crucial to maintaining an active lifestyle and preventing exercise related injury. Fit Matters: • Poor fitting footwear is a primary contributor to foot and ankle injury and can exacerbate many common health conditions. Foot size, forefoot width and arch type are essential measurements in a proper footwear fitting, but there is more to know about ensuring an ideal fit.

• Black toenails and foot cramping are often signs that your shoes are too small or narrow. When running, the more distance you cover during individual runs or walks the longer your shoe needs to be.

• When cross training and moving laterally, look for a sturdy shoe with a snug fit that makes the foot feel as though it is taped within the shoe. Your Health Matters: 11. At FitFirst Footwear, we know an annual foot measurement and attention to your changing health needs makes a significant difference in choosing footwear to keep you active and injury free. Whether you wear orthotics, have arthritis, diabetes, or experience changes in your feet during pregnancy, our team will provide you with the knowledge you need and a level of service and customer care that stands above the rest.

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

The Race to the Sub 2 Hour Marathon There is no right or wrong No more evident is this adage than in the design race between Nike and adidas to design a shoe for the purpose of helping break the 2 hour barrier in the marathon. The world’s two top powers in athletic footwear each armed with the world’s top resources . Biomechanists and aerospace engineers with oodles of research at their fingertips, end up exiting the lab with two completely different shoes in an billion dollar effort to solve the same conundrum. Footwear, sport , orthopaedics and life itself is constantly evolving.. If there was a simple answer, there would be no race.

Adidas Adizero sub2 To shed weight, the company is using a new midsole compound called Boost Light. It’s the brand’s “lightest-ever foam and retains the industry-leading energy return that has powered Adidas athletes to world records.” Further details about this new midsole have not been released, but Adidas says us it's a slightly different material, that the energy capsules are much lighter. The gram-shaving continues on the upper and midsole. Photos of the shoe show a single layer of breezy mesh, free of any overlays—even the brand’s signature three stripes are painted on. The outsole is a grid of thin rubber lines, built in cooperation with Continental, the car tire maker, to deliver grip at 4:40 per mile pace. The shoe's final weight has not yet been released, but Adidas tells us "currently the overall weight reduction from past silhouettes is 100 grams (3.5 ounces)." (courtesy of runners world)

Nike Zoom Vaporfly Elite After starting at square one in designing the ideal footwear for a sub-2-hour marathon, the team initially conceived of a shoe that was little more than a track spike. It apparently didn’t get very far, because the runners balked at the lack of cushioning and protection for such an endeavor. So, in an effort to devise the ideal mix of weightlessness, energy return and aerodynamics, Nike came up with the Vaporfly Elite. It’s got a new midsole foam called ZoomX that Schoolmeester says is a third of the weight of standard EVA foam, and offers 13 percent

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018 better energy return. Embedded within is a full-length carbon fiber plate to increase stiffness, reduce fatigue and minimize energy loss. Its curvature provides what Schoolmeester says is a downhill sensation when running in them. You can find carbon-fiber plates in track spikes, as well as everything from cycling to cross-country ski footwear, but they’re otherwise only found in a tiny handful of running shoes. The extremely upturned heel is said to “delay air separation and reduce drag,” according to Nike, as even in a marathon-distance effort, aerodynamics still play a large part when that effort is at sub-five-minute pace. It’s got a 21mm stack height, with a 9mm heel-toe drop to go easy on the Achilles strain. Will the carbon fiber plate prove to move the needle in shoe design? It’s hard to say, but Schoolmeester notes that all kinds of testers—from heel strikers to forefoot strikers—said they like the feel. In addition to the downhill running sensation, Schoolmeester claims it lets people run with a taller posture.(courtesy of running.competitor.com)

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

The New Age Flip Flop They’re not all the same! The flip flop, or to some of us elders, the thong, has changed significantly over the last decade or so. The thong strap upper has remained essentially unchanged since its debut in 1500 BC, but the foot platform has undergone a massive overhaul. Three key changes have been responsible for the welcomed evolution of the flip flop. 1. Its new functional design includes a concave contoured heel that cups the calcaneus providing a welcomed degree of heel stability and support. Gone are the days of seeing the rear-foot sitting half off a foam platform that has been completely collapsed on the medial side. 2. A contoured longitudinal arch incorporated into the midsole provides a comfortable level of arch and medial support that has been all but absent in the classic style. The benefits of this kind of support, I am sure, require no explanation. 3. In addition, high tech midsole materials have improved the resilience, durability, and shock absorbing capability of the new age design. Foams and urethanes of different durometers help provide a range of foot platform options including firm supportive ones complete with rockered profiles as well as soft comfortable cushioned styles.

Here are some brand suggestions for the new flip flop: 1. Models with firm support: The Sole brand well as Vionic, Spenco, and Olukai all incorporate a firm contoured longitudinal arch support that can vary in both height and placement from style to style. Heel toe offsets also differ between brands which may be an important distinction for some of your patient pathologies.

”Spenco Yumi Women’s Flip Flop” 2. Models with soft cushioning: This category is dominated by the Oofos brand! Though it’s incredible cushioning is welcomed by some, the inherent instability that comes with a very soft platform may be troublesome to others. With increased compression upon heel strike there may be some additional strain on the calf and achilles. That being said, some individuals who cannot tolerate the firmness of other brands, are right at home with the shock absorbing softness of an Oofos.

3. Brands with a stiff forefoot rocker: Hoka has just introduced a flip flop with both a firm midsole and noticeable forefoot rocker. Though the rocker’s ability to reduce motion at LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

the first MTP may be diluted by the heel to toe action of a flip flop, combining it with an inflexible base may help to splint the forefoot and provide relief to those suffering from many forms of metatarsalgia. As expected, the thick contoured base of the Hoka will bolster an unprecedented level of cushioning and support to the new age flip flop sector.

”Hoka Ora Recovery Flip Flop” When it comes to flip flops and patient care we may have to pick our battles. Knowing that many patients will wear flip flops no matter what, it is evident that a little guidance can go a long way in helping them survive a holiday or those warm summer months.

LadySport FitFirst Footwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018 Chart #1: Motion Control Running Shoes Major medial enhancement for the excessive pronator.

Available Dense Plastic Forefoot Heel Drop/ Torsional Available Width Counter at FitFirst Replaces Brand Model Price Medial Medial Flexibility Stiffness Offset Rigidity Ladies Men at Sizing Description Foam Post Firmness LadySport Footwear Available

The fit of a contoured neutral shoe with Saucony Redeemer $190 Extensive ü Moderate Very Very 8 mm High ü ü ü ü ü Stabil CS3 best in class medial support.

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #2: Stability Running Shoes

Dense Plastic Heel Available Width Forefoot Drop/ Torsional Available at Brand Model Price Medial Medial Stiffness Counter Ladies Men at FitFirst Sizing Replaces Description Flexibility Offset Rigidity LadySport Foam Post Firmness Footwear Available

Cutting edge knitted upper on a maximal Adidas Ultra Boost $240 Slight - Moderate Moderate Firm 10 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü - - cushion midsole that defies compression set

The benchmark shoe in the stability category. Asics GT 2000 - 6 $170 Slight - Moderate Moderate Very Firm 10 mm High ü ü ü ü ü GT 2000-5 Fit has been an issue with this series, so trying it on is key! Womens: 13 13mm offset is very distinctive. A great blend Asics Kayano 24 $220 Slight - Flexible Moderate Very Firm mm Mens: 10 High ü ü ü ü ü Kayano 23 of cushion and stability mm Adrenaline Adrenaline New styling and a seamless upper was Brooks $160 Extensive ü Moderate Moderate Very Firm 12 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü 18 17 combined in a more supportive update Wave A significant change in style, but the medial Mizuno $170 - ü Flexible Very Very Firm 12 mm High ü ü ü ü - Inspire 13 stability remains effective Inspire 14 New Again…One of the best in this long line of 860v8 $165 Slight - Moderate Moderate Very Firm 12 mm High ü ü ü ü ü 860v7 Balance shoes for both fit and overall stability. The convex midsole shape protects against lateral midsole compression. Particularly good Nike Lunarglide 9 $165 Slight - Moderate Moderate Firm 10 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü - Lunarglide 8 for fashion conscious runners who need a good stable platform.

Zoom Structure The better engineered lateral midsole will Nike $165 Extensive ü Flexible Moderate Moderate 12 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü - Structure 21 20 increase the durability

The unibody tongue can be troublesome for Saucony Guide ISO $170 Slight ü Moderate Moderate Very Firm 8 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü Guide 10 fit, but overall stability is quite good

Maybe the best of the stability shoes for fit Light – Saucony Omni 16 $175 Slight - Moderate Very Firm 8 mm High ü ü ü - ü Omni 15 and performance as it manages that moderate “clunkiness” factor well Guards against some excessive pronation/moderate medial enhancement by way of some dense medial midsole foam.

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #3: Neutral Supportive Running Shoes Ideal for orthotic providers who want a neutral but firm platform for an orthotic device.

Sole Heel Available Available Width Forefoot Drop/ Torsional Brand Model Price Midsole Stiffness Ladies Men at at FitFirst Sizing Replaces Description Plate Flexibility Counter Offset Rigidity Width Firmness Footwear Available LadySport A basic styling update only…The thick forefoot of the footbed is unusual, but Asics Fortitude 8 $160 Firm Wide Moderate Moderate Very Firm 10 mm Very ü ü ü ü - Fortitude 7 adds versatility for orthotic fitting. This

model is very, very stable. The classic and truly neutral supportive shoe. It has a more tapered forefoot fit Brooks Dyad 9 $160 Firm Wide Moderate Moderate Very Firm 12 mm Strong ü ü ü ü ü Dyad 8 and base gives it a less boxy feel than its competition

New Due out soon with great anticipation as it 840v4 $170 Moderate Wide Moderate Moderate Moderate 10 mm Strong ü ü ü √ ü ü 840v3 Balance is a flagship “orthopaedic” runner!

Excellent for the heavier runner/patient New 1540v2 $180 Firm Wide Moderate Moderate Very Firm 8 mm Strong ü ü ü - ü 1540 who collapses the lateral midsole or has a Balance post tib. dysfunction

The better engineered midsole design Saucony Echelon 6 $160 Firm Wide Moderate Moderate Very Firm 8 mm Strong ü ü ü ü ü Echelon 5 enhances both medial arch and lateral heel durability

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018 Chart #4: Cushion Running Shoes For the neutral to cavus foot that requires exceptional cushioning and a softer ride.

Available

Sole Heel Available Width Forefoot Drop/ Torsional at Brand Model Price Midsole Plate Stiffness Counter Ladies Men at FitFirst Sizing Replaces Description Flexibility Offset Rigidity LadySpor Width Firmness Footwear Available t

Asics Cumulus 19 $160 Soft Medium Moderate Moderate Moderate 10mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü Cumulus 18 The toebox fit has been slimmer than usual so beware of fitting too short Women: 13 Mod- Moderate It’s back to the traditional fit after the small sized Asics Nimbus 20 $200 Soft Wide Stiff Moderate Firm mm Very ü ü ü ü ü Nimbus 19 Nimbus 19 model. Still has the signature 13mm Men: 10 mm offset! Wide heel Brooks Ghost 10 $160 Firm Moderate Moderate Firm 13 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü Ghost 9 Narrow heel fit and is deep with a wide seamless and forefoot toebox… keep an eye on this model! Like the Ghost, it handles the additional heel Brooks Glycerin 15 $190 Soft Medium Stiff Moderate Firm 10 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü Glycerin 14 inserts well along with posted orthotics…a very special shoe! In the 2A (narrow) fit, it is known to be one of the Mizuno Wave Rider 21 $165 Moderate Moderate Flexible Moderate Firm 10 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü Wave Rider 20 slimmest fits for that truly skinny and tough to fit foot New w880 v8 $155 Soft Medium Moderate Moderate Moderate 12 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü 880v7 Please see our website for updated description Balance when shoe is released.

New Wide 1080 v8 $195 Firm Moderate Very Moderate 8 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü ü 1080v7 Wide base for excellent stability, firm forefoot flex Balance rearfoot and a seamless toebox. This shoe is shaped well for an adducted great toe New Fresh Foam Fresh Foam $130 Soft Moderate Flexible Slight Moderate 4 mm Flexible ü ü ü ü ü Great for speed work and as a travel shoe for Balance Zante v4 Zante v3 those who want function and fashion The skived and concave engineered lateral Nike Pegasus 34 $145 Soft Moderate Flexible Moderate Weak 12 mm Flexible Pegasus midsole makes it appear stuck in rearfoot varus ü ü ü ü ü 33 so be careful of inversion Excellent rearfoot midsole design, but again, be Nike Vomero 13 $190 Soft Medium Flexible Moderate Moderate 12 mm Flexible ü ü ü ü - Vomero 12 aware of inverted illusion due to skiving The firm midsole plate makes it valuable as a stiff On Cloudsurfer II $180 Firm Moderate Stiff Very Slightly Weak 8 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü - Cloudsurfer rocker option Narrow Saucony Triumph Iso 4 $195 Firm Stiff Moderate Moderate 8 mm Firm ü ü ü ü - Triumph Iso 3 Mid foot upper fit can be problematic, but the midfoot cushion is excellent Convex medial midsole and concave lateral Medium- engineering makes me question neutral long Saucony Ride 10 $160 Firm Flexible Moderate Moderate 8 mm Strong ü ü ü ü ü - Ride 9 wide term status – other designs are guilty of this too and we need to keep an eye on them

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #5: Trail Runners Running shoes that are made specifically for off road running.

Available Dense Plastic Heel Drop/ Torsional Available Width Brand Model Price Type Medial Medial Counter Ladies Men at at FitFirst Sizing Replaces Description Offset Rigidity Foam Post Firmness Footwear Available LadySport Fuji Trabuco Fuji Trabuco 5 A shoe with great heritage – it’s neutral and Asics $160 Neutral Slight - Very 10 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü - 6 Neutral very functional on trail and road

Fuji Trabuco 5 Fuji Trabuco Waterproof version of the shoe above and has Asics $180 Neutral Slight - Very 10 mm Moderate ü ü ü ü - Neutral 6 Goretex a relatively stiff forefoot flex Goretex

The upper is a bit stiff affecting the first feel, Cascadia 12 Brooks $175 Neutral - - Firm 10 mm Moderate ü ü ü - Cascadia 11 but otherwise a firm and durable run/hike Goretex option

Midfoot sleeve and overall fit are not Saucony Xodus ISO 2 $170 Neutral - - Very 4 mm High ü ü ü - ü Xodus 6.0 impressive, but the stiff rocker is useful

One of the lightest trail shoes on the market Peregrine 7 Saucony $165 Neutral - - Very 4 mm High ü ü - ü ü Peregrine 6 with a stiff forefoot flex. It’s water resistant Runshield and a fast off road option

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #6: Walking Shoes People walk in all kinds of shoes from athletic to casual. These are shoes specifically marketed to the walker. They are chosen for their support and ability to accommodate an orthotic.

Available Stiff Rearfoot Torsional Available at Width Brand Model Price Type Midsole Rocker Ladies Men at Replaces Description Outersole Depth Rigidity FitFirst Sizing LadySport Available Stiff forefoot flex with a minimal rocker New profile. A great country walker/light hiker 1300 GR $175 Support Neutral Very ü ü Rigid ü ü ü ü ü - Balance option with an extra deep forefoot in the 2E (extra wide) fitting An inline tweak to the upper was needed to New 928 v3 $170 Support Neutral Very ü ü Rigid ü ü ü ü ü 928 v2 create the roomy midfoot/forefoot fit classic Balance to this iconic series No changes…and don’t change it PLEASE Grid (and definitely never discontinue it). Closest Saucony Integrity ST $130 Neutral Neutral Very Moderate Moderate Moderate ü ü ü ü ü Grid Integrity thing to a runner in 3 colour options (black 2 leather, white leather, and suede tan) A neutral supportive runner turned walker Echelon Echelon Saucony $150 Neutral Neutral Moderate Moderate Moderate Moderate - ü - ü ü due to the leather upper – it is an alternative Walker 1 Walker 2 to NB WW928

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018 Chart #7: Court, Cross-training and Fitness Shoes Styles work for individuals with or without orthotic devices.

Available Width Sole Forefoot Heel Torsional Ladie Available at Brand Model Price Sport Plate Counter Deep Heel Men at Sizing Replaces Description Flexibility Rigidity s FitFirst Width Strength LadySport Available

Maybe the best combination of cushion and Asics Craze TR – 4 $120 X-Train Moderate Moderate Firm ü Moderate ü ü ü ü - Craze TR - 3 support in a cross-trainer. Great fit and function

Consistently a superior fit especially for the Asics Resolution 7 $180 Tennis Moderate Very Stiff Firm - - - Resolution 6 narrow-ish foot and a real players shoe ü ü ü ü Solution Lighter weight version of the Resolution with Asics $160 Tennis Moderate Stiff Firm ü Rigid ü ü ü - - Speed 3 Speed 3 less lateral support and durability

A nice alternative to the Ryka for water aerobics and better for outdoor watersports Columbia Drainmaker 4 $120 Aqua Moderate Flexible Soft ü Flexible ü - ü - - - (kayaking, adventure runs through a stream etc.)

Mizuno Hurricane 3 $100 Indoor Court Moderate Flexible Very Firm - Rigid ü ü ü - - Hurricane 2 New style still to be reviewed

Very Mizuno Lightning Z3 $150 Indoor Court Moderate Moderate Moderate Rigid ü ü ü - - Lightning Z2 New style still to be reviewed Flexible

Nike Zoom Cage 2 $175 Tennis Moderate Very stiff Firm ü Rigid ü - ü - - Cage A touch bulky but Nike is popular - A classic leather upper, old school cross New Balance 608 v4 $100 X-Train Moderate Stiff Moderate ü Moderate ü ü ü - ü 622 trainer. Available in multiple widths and has a relatively stiff forefoot flex

The lateral cupsole at the met heads makes Wide New Balance 786 $110 Tennis Stiff Moderate Moderate ü ü - ü - ü 646 this special for lateral control that the true forefoot “player” requires

Moderate - Width sizes are very useful here and it is a New Balance 806 $140 Tennis Wide Firm Moderate Rigid ü ü ü - ü 804

Stiff consistent line to go back to

The unusual mesh upper helps those with Prince T22 Lite $160 Tennis Moderate Moderate Very ü Moderate ü - ü - - - orthopaedic needs (hammer toes, bunions

etc.) Asics WeldonX $150 X-Train moderate very firm > flexible ü - ü - - - Great for plyometrics and some turf sports

Midfoot sleeve upper can be VERY annoying. Moderate - Wilson Rush Pro 2.5 $180 Tennis Moderate Firm ü Rigid ü ü ü - - Rush Pro 2 If it fits, it delivers better than average Stiff stability

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #8: Ladies Dress, Casual and Orthopaedic Shoes Styles work for individuals with or without orthotic devices.

Stretch Forefoot Rearfoot Torsional Width Sizing Brand Model Price Type Removable Insole Closure Rocker Description Elastic Flexibility Depth Rigidity Available

Dressy stiff rockered sole; wider forefoot; very Aravon Maya $170 Heel Full Length Mary-Jane - Stiff Good Deep Rigid ü accommodative.

Seamless leather upper; deep; accommodative; Aravon Farren $160 Casual Full Length Lace-up - Flexible None Moderate Moderate ü good fit.

Stiff rocker sole in a slim and younger looking Aravon Kitt Strap $170 Dress Casual Full Length Mary-Jane - Stiff Good Deep Rigid yes

Same sole plate as the in a zip . Aravon Kitt Boot $190 Casual Full Length Slip On Boot - Stiff Good Deep Rigid yes Midfoot fit can be troublesome like any non lace- up option. The width options are very helpful

Moderate Mary Jane style shoe; three-quarter removable Ziera Rhapsody $240 Casual 3/4 Length Mary-Jane - Good Deep Rigid ü Stiff insole with metatarsal pad; stiffer forefoot.

Slides come in both leather and mesh upper.

Merrell Slides ~ $160 Casual Full Length Slip-on - Moderate Moderate N/A Flexible - Excellent for around the house, and take orthotics.

A great stiff rocker option but of course the slipon

Naot Lenok $210 Casual Full length Slip on - stiff Good Deep Rigid - Makes for inevitable heel slip…almost always preferred to laces for look

A cute shoe with a rigid forefoot, excellent cork Naot Sea $200 Dress Casual Full Length Mary-Jane - Rigid Good Moderate Rigid - foot bed; very deep.

A very important shoe with seamless, full stretch Stretch Dress

Portofino $200 Full Length Velcro ü Flexible Moderate Deep Rigid - toe box and Velcro closure. Wide base and dressy Leather Casual look!

Cush’n , Neoprene upper, with one large velcro strap. Propet $90 Full Length Velcro ü Flexible - Moderate Flexible ü Foot Casual Excellent slipper or outdoor shoe.

Extremely important shoe due to super-flexible elastic Lycra toe box; handles the most difficult Propet Bianca $140 Ortho Full Length Velcro ü Flexible - Deep Flexible - arthritic foot very well. Stiff sole available at $229 for summer 2017.

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #9: Ladies Most sandals come with removable foot beds to accommodate orthotics or have specific orthopaedic attributes.

Width Sole Plate Forefoot Torsional Brand Model Price Type Removable Insole Closure Rocker Back Strap Sizing Description Width Flexibility Rigidity Available

Excellent walking ; multiple widths; large

Aravon Katy $160 Dress Casual Full Length Velcro Moderate Flexible Slight ü Moderate ü removable foot bed; Velcro straps.

A closed heel sandal. It's an excellent option for

Moderate extremely posted orthotics or use of a heel lift. Portofino Open Toe $165 Casual Full Length Velcro Moderate None ü Moderate - stiff Also creates better rear foot stability in case of extreme hallux varus, for instance.

Moderate Excellent arch support built off the Sole off the Sole Flip Flop $80 Casual None Slip-on Wide Good - - - stiff shelf insoles.

Moderate Best for arch support in young looking sandal for Teva Tirra $110 Casual None Velcro Wide Good ü Rigid - stiff road or beach.

Non-removable insole, but comes with excellent Revere Vionic $155 Dress Full Length Velcro Moderate Flexible Slight - Moderate - arch support, unique adjustable straps, that are Miami accommodating for wider feet.

Wolky Jewel $230 Dress Full Length Velcro Wide Rigid Good ü Rigid - The best stiff rockered walking sandal made.

Extremely supportive sandal. Birkenstock look with good heel offset, rigid rocker, and a Cambrian Delphi $200 Dress Full Length Velcro Wide Rigid Good ü Rigid - removable foot bed. Also a sport sandal with removable foot bed.

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #10: Natural Minimalism This minimalist category is defined by its torsional flexibility and lack of supportive upper. The midsole flexes in all planes and the heel counter is often non-existent.

Heel Available Width Sole Forefoot Drop/ Torsional Available at Brand Model Price Midsole Plate Stiffness Counter Ladies Men at FitFirst Sizing Replaces Description Flexibility Offset Rigidity Width Firmness LadySport Footwear Available Noosa Tr Asics $180 FF2 This light weight model is excellent for those who Brooks Pureflow $130 firm Wide Moderate Moderate Firm 4 mm Moderate ü - ü ü - - pronate and wear orthotics. It is defined as a neutral fast shoe with a wide platform. New Minimus Trail sole on a true minimalist trail shoe. No $150 Soft Moderate Very None None 4 mm Flexible ü ü ü ü - - Balance 10 protection other than the sole. More support, more cushion but true to free Free Run Nike $165 Soft Wide Flexible None None 4 mm Flexible ü ü ü ü - - heritage. For those who want a little more Flyknit protection for long runs. A beefier version of the Free that is more “runnable” for the distance that a traditional Free Free Run has struggled to deliver results as the runner Nike $140 Soft Moderate Very None None 8mm Fkexible ü ü ü ü - - 2017 fatigues in longer runs. I expect to see more development in this more protective Free going forward.

On Cloud $160 Firm Moderate Very Slight Moderate - Flexible ü - ü ü - - A more cushioned alternative to the Nike free. More minimalist-traditional as it is not terribly Break Thru Wide heel, Saucony $130 Soft Moderate Slight Moderate 4 mm Moderate ü ü ü - - torsionally flexible. Great light road show. Excellent 4 forefoot ü forefoot cushion.

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Chart #11: Maximalism and stiff rockered

Sole Heel Available Width Forefoot Drop- Torsional Available Brand Model Price Midsole Plate Rocker Counter Ladies Mens at Sizing Replaces Description Flexibility Offset Rigidity at FitFirst Width Firmness Ladysport Available

Available in wide fitting, narrower base than Bondie and has a feeling of Hoka Arahi V2 $170 Firm Medium Very stiff ü Moderate 4mm ü ü ü ü ü ü - a lower offset than other models. Like all Hoka as it is excellent for forefoot pathologies.

Very stiff, with an extremely wide platform especially in the wide fitting. Hoka Bondi 5 $180 Firm Wide Very stiff ü Very 4 mm ü ü ü ü ü ü Bondi 4 Excellent for plantar fasciitis, Achilles, and calf issues as well as standard forefoot pathologies. Stinson 4 Sleeker than Bondi. Trail and road Hoka $190 Firm Wide Very stiff ü Very 4mm ü ü ü ü ü - Stinson 3 ATR soles. A less bulky option to the Bondi with Hoka Clifton 4 $170 Firm Wide Very Stiff > Very 6mm > > > > > yes Clifton 3 width sizing… may be their best fitting model Mod Hoka Cavu Firm Very Stiff > Very 4mm > > > > > - - Very light but remarkably stiff Wide Big toe spring or rocker profile and On Cloudsurfer $160 Firm Medium Mod. stiff ü Mod. 10mm ü ü ü ü - - - the stretch elastic toe box is useful for bunion fitting. Any trail show with a plate is bound Any Trail Shoes with a $140- Generally, 4- Firm Medium Stiff ü ü ü ü ü ü - - to be stiff and splint the forefoot Rock Plate 200 firm 10mm somewhat

LadySport FitFirstFootwear 3545 West 4th Avenue 3713 Kensington Avenue Vancouver, BC Burnaby, BC 604-733-1173 604-299-8851 www.ladysport.ca www.fitfirst.ca The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Key Models

Available at FitFirst Widths Model Men Women Price Range Running Motion Control (wide base, major posting) ü Saucony Redeemer ü ü $ 190 Stability (hard foam medially) ü Ultra Boost ü $ 240 ü ü Asics GT 2000 - 6 ü ü $ 170 ü ü Asics Kayano 24 ü ü $ 220 ü ü Brooks Adrenaline 18 ü ü $ 160 ü Mizuno Wave Inspire 14 ü ü $ 170 ü ü New Balance 860v8 ü ü $ 165 ü Nike Lunarglide 9 ü ü $ 165 ü Nike Zoom Structure 21 ü ü $ 165 ü ü Saucony Guide ISO ü ü $ 170 ü Saucony Omni 16 ü ü $ 175 Neutral Supportive (firm neutral midsole) Asics Fortitude 7 ü Asics Fortitude 8 ü ü $ 160 ü ü Brooks Dyad 9 ü ü $ 160 ü ü New Balance 840v4 ü ü $ 170 ü New Balance 1540v2 ü ü $ 180 ü Saucony Echelon 6 ü ü $ 160 Cushion (soft neutral midsole) Adidas Energy Boost ü ü Asics Cumulus 19 ü ü $ 160 ü ü Asics Nimbus 20 ü ü $ 200 ü ü Brooks Ghost 10 ü ü $ 160 ü ü Brooks Glycerin 15 ü ü $ 190 ü ü Mizuno Wave Rider 21 ü ü $ 165 ü ü New Balance w880v8 ü ü $ 155 ü ü New Balance 1080v8 ü ü $ 195 ü ü New Balance Fresh Foam Zante v4 ü ü $ 140 ü Nike Pegasus 34 ü ü $ 145 ü Nike Vomero 13 ü ü $ 190 ü On Cloudsurfer II ü ü $ 180 ü Saucony Triumph Iso 4 ü ü $ 195 ü Saucony Ride 10 ü ü $ 160 Trail Running ü Asics Fuji Trabuco 6 ü ü $ 160 ü Asics Fuji Trabuco GTX 6 ü ü $ 180

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Brooks Cascadia 12 GTX ü ü $ 175 Available at FitFirst Widths Model Men Women Price Range ü Saucony Xodus ISO 2 ü ü $ 170 ü Saucony Peregrine 7 Runshield ü ü $ 165 Minimalism Nike Free 5.0 ü Nike Free Run Fly knit 2017 ü ü $ 140 ü On Cloud ü ü $ 160 Asics Noosa Trainer FF2 ü $ 180 Saucony Break Thru 4 ü ü $ 130

Maximalism and Stiff Rocker Altra Olympus ü ü Hoka Arahi v2 ü ü $ 170 ü ü Hoka Bondi 5 ü ü $ 180 ü ü Hoka Cavu ü ü $ 160 ü Hoka Stinson 4 ATR ü ü $ 190 ü Hoka Clifton 4 ü ü $ 170 Walking ü New Balance 1300 GR ü $ 175 ü ü New Balance 928 v3 ü ü $ 170 ü ü Saucony Grid Integrity ST 2 ü ü $ 130 Cross-training, Court and Fitness shoes Cross-training ü Asics Craze TR-4 ü ü $ 120 ü Nike Metcon 2 ü ü $ 175 ü New Balance 608 v4 (phasing out) ü $ 100 ü New Balance 857 v2 ü ü $ 160 Tennis ü Asics Resolution 7 ü ü $ 180 Asics Solution Speed 3 ü $ 160 ü New Balance 786 ü $ 110 ü New Balance 806 ü $ 140 Prince T22 Lite ü $ 160 Weldon X ü $ 150 Wilson Rush Pro 2.5 ü $ 180 Aquafit Columbia Drainmaker 4 ü $ 120 Ryka Hydro Sport ü $ 100 Volleyball Mizuno Lightning Z3 ü $ 150 Mizuno Hurricane 3 ü $ 100

The Shoe Update – Spring 2018

Available at FitFirst Widths Model Men Women Price Range Ladies dress, casual and orthopedic shoes Orthopedic, Elastic ü Propet Bianca ü $ 150 ü ü Propet Cush n’ Foot ü ü $ 100 Portofino Stretch Leather ü $ 200 Orthopedic, Dress ü Aravon Farren ü $ 140 ü Aravon Maya ü $ 170 ü Ziera Rhapsody ü $ 240 Naot Sea ü $ 210 ü Aravon Kitt Boot ü $ 190 ü Aravon Kitt Strap ü $ 170 Dress/Casual ü Aravon Revsavor ü $ 160 Naot Lenok ü $ 210 Naot Brussels ü $ 175 Slides Slides (various) ü $ ~160 Sandals ü Aravon Katy ü $ 160 ü Aravon P3 Strap ü $ 160 ü Cambrian Delphi ü $ 200 Vionic Revere Miami ü $ 155 Wolky Jewel ü $ 230 Non-Removable Insoles (good arch support) Keen Venice ü $ 120 Oofoos Flip Flop ü $ 60 Teva Tirra ü $ 110