Pronation running style

Do you know your running style? Here’s a guide to pronation running style,which is the most common type of running style among Danes. Use the guide and buy your running shoes according to your running style.

Learn how pronation works

First of all, it should be clarified that you can come out to read about pronation using different word choices. As you can see in the picture above, one type of terms that is used is 1) underpronation 2) normal pronation and 3) overpronation. The other type of terms that are used is 1) supination 2) neutral 3) pronation. Whether it is one type of terms or the other that is most correct is secondary – it is just nice to know that for example underpronation and supination are two words for the same thing. The same applies to neutral and normal pronation, and finally to overpronation and pronation. The confusion arises because the construction normal pronation can easily be understood as overpronation, or simply pronation. In this article, supination, neutral and pronation are used.

Pronation works in such a way that after you land on your heel, which most runners do, your foot will roll over the arch. Here you will find that your ankle falls inward. This is called pronation. If you find your old and worn-out running shoes, you will quickly be able to see if you have pronation. The typical wear for pronating runners is on the outside of the shoe.

What does pronation of running shoes mean?

Running shoe pronation is about how your foot moves when you run. When you take a step, your foot will normally roll inward slightly – this is called pronation. This helps absorb shock and allows for a more natural movement.

There are three main types of pronation:

1. Neutral pronation: Your foot rolls slightly inward, as it naturally does. This is the most common and “healthy” form of pronation.
2. Overpronation: Your foot rolls inward too much, which can lead to problems like knee or hip pain because it changes how the body absorbs shock.
3. Underpronation (or supination): Your foot doesn’t roll inward enough, which means you may not get enough shock absorption, which can lead to injuries.

When buying running shoes, it can be a good idea to choose shoes that match how you pronate. For example, if you overpronate, you may need shoes that provide extra support to correct your foot to avoid injury.

Do all brands make running shoes for pronation?

Approximately 80% of all Danes have a pronated running style, 18% have a neutral running style and 2% have a supinated running style. Therefore, it is quite natural that the vast majority of running shoes you find on the shelves in Denmark are for pronated runners. This also means that the vast majority of brands make running shoes for pronation – here are a few selected ones:

• Adidas
• Asics
• Brooks
• New Balance
• Nike
• Mizuno
• Saucony

Overpronation Running Shoes

Some popular running shoes for overpronation:

• Asics Gel-Kayano
• Brooks Adrenaline GTS
• Saucony Guide
• New Balance 860
• Mizuno Wave Inspire