New Balance Uses 3D Printers to Customize Shoes for Runners

New Balance Uses 3D Printers to Customize Shoes for Runners

New Balance Athletic Shoes Inc., in Boston is using 3D printers to make special running shoes for professional runners and Olympians to aid in their performance. Using video, pressure sensors, and high pressure values designers can get a good idea as to how each specific foot meets the ground, how the feet interact with the shoe, and which area of the foot is most important during the impact. The shoes are printed with a specific pattern of spikes in order to provide more traction when the foot hits the ground. Olympian Kim Conley wore her 3D printed shoes during the 2013 World Track Championships where she set her best personal records in 3,000 and 5,000 meter races. Reducing the pressure on the foot as well as being a lightweight shoe are things all runners consider in their shoes.  

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential for maintaining optimal foot health. For more information, see Dr. Michael H. Wynn, DPM of Foot Care Associates of Texas. Dr. Wynn can treat your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Although it seems simple, running is in fact a complex movement that places stress on the joints, bones, and ligaments of the body. To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes is centered around pronation, which is the rolling of the ankle from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even go barefoot
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. Runners who supinate require shoes with more flexibility and cushion

To learn about your foot type, visit a local shop that specializes in running shoes. Professionals will be able to measure your stride, gait, and arch type and inform you of your footwear needs, which come in handy for future reference.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Kingwood, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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