Sports Med Blog

Stability or Neutral Running Shoes?

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Published on Monday, 09 November 2009 20:57

Written by Anne Moss Rogers

I have been on the fence about whether I should buy stability running shoes or neutral. Well, I bought neutrals not too long ago. They were very comfortable. But after a month of running in them, I noticed an inflamed bursa on the inside of my right knee--pes anserine bursa. I thought nothing of it, applied tape and ice. But then the other knee started to hurt just a bit.

See the Running Shoe Guide from Runner Bills store owner, Bill Lis that describes the types of shoes. See all reviews on running shoes. We don't do many of them and only review the best and those which resolve some issue such as shin splints etc.

Then my plantar fasciitis which has been dormant and fine for months started to feel a twinge of pain.

I increased my fascia stretching but then thought back to when I started getting all these new or renewed ailments. It was around the time I had purchased the neutral shoes. So a few days ago, I bought stability shoes again, the new Gel Kayano 16 running shoes. No issues now. No inflamed bursa on either side and plantar fasciitis is non existent. Of course, I caught all before they became chronic. They were in the "warning" stages. I heeded the warning and took a few days off although that is always hard to do. 

But keep in mind that your shoes or biomechanics of your feet often trigger ITB problems, knee problems, hip problems. And one way to circumvent those issues is by choosing shoes that suit your foot and running style. 

Stability shoes are good for over mild to moderate pronators. But I also have high arches which fits in the category of neutral. But apparently my overpronation is what causes more of the problems from which I suffer and a mere shoe change resolved the issue. Yes, I'm out about $136 but it saves me a doctor visit. And the Gel Kayanos have the arch support I need.

I'm not so serious an overpronator that I need motion control. At least not yet. 

I am over 5'10" and while tall not all that heavy but they work for me. 

See my earlier Gel Kayano Review. I will be posting a Gel Kayano 16 Review once they have been tested more thoroughly.

Brief Gel Kayano Description. 

All Kayano models are designed for runners with a medium to large build and low to medium arches. Larger framed runners and heavy heel strikers love the nonstop cushioning and extra durability.

The GeL Kayano, the undisputed champion of stability supplies your run with a massive GEL cushioning unit. The wider outsole of the men's Gel Kayano provides even greater stability and optimum responsiveness.