Athletic footwear: design, performance and selection issues
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 10, 2026

Effect of Change of Direction (COD) Movement on Plantar Pressure and Foot Balance in Bilateral Limbs
Published on: March 10, 2026
1Department of Physical Therapy, Northern Arizona University, USA.
Abstract:
The purpose of this paper is to assist the practitioner in understanding the various advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of athletic footwear. In addition, the various components of a typical athletic shoe are described, including the upper, the midsole/outsole, the last, as well as the lasting process. Since the various models of athletic shoes that are available to the consumer can change in a very rapid and unpredictable manner, it is extremely difficult for the clinician to maintain a database of current shoe models and features. This paper stresses the importance of the clinician providing the athlete a list of footwear features and components based on their particular foot classification or problem, rather than attempting to recommend a specific model of athletic shoe. A detailed explanation of these features is provided to assist the practitioner in helping the athlete select the most appropriate shoe.
More Related Videos
06:35Using Gold-standard Gait Analysis Methods to Assess Experience Effects on Lower-limb Mechanics During Moderate High-heeled Jogging and Running
Published on: September 14, 2017
06:52An Inertial Measurement Unit Based Method to Estimate Hip and Knee Joint Kinematics in Team Sport Athletes on the Field
Published on: May 26, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Bearings: Problem Solving
Exercise and Muscle Performance
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...
Design Consideration
The factor of safety is another key aspect...