Running Shoes With Heel Lift

Running is a common form of aerobic exercise. However, runners are at risk for developing a variety of lower extremity overuse injuries such as patellofemoral pain (PFP). Patellofemoral joint pain is frequently described as anterior knee pain with an insidious onset, usually exacerbated during exercise involving running or deep knee flexion, often becoming persistent if not appropriately addressed.

Why Do Running Shoes Have Heel Lift?

The use of heel lifts may have therapeutic benefits for runners with patellofemoral pain if the primary goal is to reduce patellofemoral joint stress. Patellofemoral pain is a debilitating injury for many recreational runners. Excessive patellofemoral joint stress may be the underlying source of pain and interventions often focus on ways to reduce patellofemoral joint stress.

Running shoes are designed to support a natural running motion that minimizes impact on the body. When you run, your foot strikes the ground on your heel first before rolling forward to the ball of your foot and toes. This rolling motion from back to front is called the gait cycle.

To accommodate this, running shoes have a raised heel which lifts the back of the foot slightly off the ground. This provides a smooth transition and allows the achilles tendon and calf muscles to work more efficiently through the entire gait cycle. Without a little heel height, the foot would hit flat on the pavement each time you take a step which could strain joints and lead to injuries over time.

The heel lift helps create a more sustainable "rocker" effect that simulates barefoot running but protecting your feet from hard surfaces. This allows the foot, ankle, knee and hip joints to move naturally through each stride without absorbing all the force directly. It's why running shoes are designed to support healthy, injury-free running form through all those miles.

Key Features of Running Shoes with Heel Lift

Raised heels in running shoes have special parts that make them comfortable, steady and supportive.

Cushioned Heel Design

Cushioned heels are vital in running shoes with increased heels. This bouncy foam or gel cushion comforts your feet when they land. It reduces impact shock to your legs and feet. By distributing the strain instead of hitting your bones, a cushioned heel prevents stress cracks. It renders each step gentler.

Elevated Heel Drop

The heel drop is the height differential between the shoe's heel and forefoot. The heel of running shoes with heel lift is usually higher than the forefoot. For heel strikers, its shape facilitates a small forward lean and a more natural foot striking. The raised heel drop maintains balance and reduces lower leg muscle and tendon strain.

Stability and Support

Heel lift running shoes sometimes have stability features to correct pronation and offer extra support. Pronation is the foot's inward roll during locomotion. Overpronating runners may benefit from stability elements like medial posts or stronger midsoles. These features limit pronation, improve stability, and decrease overpronation injuries.

Flexibility and Responsiveness

Efficient running requires flexibility and responsiveness, even with heel lift. A flexible forefoot allows seamless toe-off during running's propulsive phase. This flexibility allows natural foot mobility while retaining a supportive and cushioned heel. Running is pleasant and lively when flexibility and reactivity are balanced.

Breathability and Durability

Airflow from mesh or designed uppers keeps feet cool and dry during runs. Running shoes must be durable to survive regular use. Shoes last longer with reinforced outsoles, robust midsoles, and superior manufacturing.

Choosing the Right Running Shoes with Heel Lift

GoldMoral offers quality running shoes with built-in invisible heel lift to elevate your running performance.

Elevator athletic sneakers such as height increasing running shoes, cycling shoes, basketball shoes and high heel tennis shoes are available at great prices. The technology behind these heel lifting sneakers lies in the height enhancing insoles, which are made of dual-density rubber to provide all-day comfort and stability. These insoles work seamlessly with the design of the shoe to provide a secure yet comprehensive solution.