While searching for the right running shoe, you may have come across the term “heel to toe drop,” but what does this mean? The heel to toe drop is the difference in height between the heel and forefoot area of the running shoes. This is measured in millimeters. Shoes are divided into four categories based on the size of the heel to toe drop. There is zero drop (0mm), low drop (1-4mm), mid drop (5-8mm), and high drop (8+mm). The most common heel drop in standard running shoes measures about 10mm. The heel to toe drop can affect your gait, foot strike pattern, and running form, so it may be beneficial to select shoes that compliment or compensate for your gait and any foot or ankle issues that you may have. A podiatrist can examine your feet for any issues and perform a gait analysis to help determine what kind of running shoes would be best for you. 

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.