Pronation is essential to our normal gait, but for some runners, uncontrolled overpronation may lead to problems. For decades, lab studies have noted a correlation between overpronation – especially excessive foot eversion – and lower limb complaints. Historically this insight led many brands down the route of heavy motion control shoes. These shoes incorporate a rigid support structure within the medial side of the rearfoot and under the arch to control heel eversion and increase rearfoot stability. However, we believe there is something more important that requires our focus.
Our biomechanics research revealed that runners who experience discomfort associated with overpronation tend to display excessive forefoot abduction. Normal forefoot function is vital for pain-free running as the forefoot spends more time in contact with the ground, experiences higher peak pressure, and acts as a rocker during propulsion. If we truly wish to manage complaints related to overpronation, we need to look towards the forefoot.
These findings led us to develop our groundbreaking 3D Archrail technology: a flexible support structure that significantly reduces peak forefoot abduction angles and activates the abductor hallucis muscle in the arch of your foot. The result is a revolution in stability that helps you to achieve better foot balance for irritation-free running.
