Feet Are The Foundation

Our feet are amazing structures. They are the foundation to our running. With so many moving parts, our feet are made up of some 26 small bones (25% of the bones in our body are in our feet). Also, our feet contain more than 100 muscles.

The foundation for runners begins with our socks (which often get overlooked). The last three years I have been wearing a graduated compression sock that goes over my calf. This year we are going to try something different on The Isles Mile Challenge – a low cut sock. I have chosen the Feetures Elite Light Cushion to race in throughout my tour. This Feetures sock makes for a fabulous foundation as it consists of iWick fibers to take away moisture and promote dryness. The Elite Light Cushion has arch support, an anatomical right and left design for a better fit, and no toe seam.

I said in my last blog that I was just fitted for my new racing orthotic. It supports my feet in the areas needed, but made up of unique materials that are light enough for high performance.

Then I just chose the third element for my foundation – the race shoe. With all my races on the road this year, I have chosen the New Balance 1400. This racing flat from New Balance has welded seams (no sewing)to reduce weight and prevent irritation. The REVlite midsole and the mesh upper are great materials for speed.

The fourth piece of footwear I travel to races with is the post-race sandal. I chose the SOLE Sport Flip as they conform to my feet and are joy to put on after a tough race. It allows my feet to dry out while still giving me the orthopedic support I am seeking in my footwear. If you have not tried a SOLE orthopedic sandal yet, you are missing out on how good a sandal can be for your feet.

I hope you can find the right foundational equipment for your feet. Begin with the sock, then the footbed,  the shoe, and a post-race sandal. You should be comfortable, secure, dry, and fast. Let the races begin!