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for orthotic wearers and pods


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#1 vaultmanssugardaddy

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Posted 04 March 2005 - 03:05 PM

I am a long time user of orthotics (light carbon fibre ones with a heel wedge), and have worn them comfortably in my 'stability' trainers (adrenaline). My questions: Are their any of you orth. wearers who also use lightweight trainers/racing flats for speedwork/races?
Do you put the orths in these shoes?
Any problems?
Is it recommended?
Thanks in anticipation.

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#2 MPHinLondon

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Posted 04 March 2005 - 03:17 PM

Sugar,

I wear my hard, half length orthotics in my racing flats, (Saucony) and have no issues whatsoever, in fact I love running in them, feel light and really supportive, I have raced 5k-1/2 marathon in them.

#3 Action

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Posted 04 March 2005 - 04:36 PM

I am with Marty. I have a lightweight pair of orthotics specifically for my racing flats... can't run without 'em. :)

#4 PodRunner

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Posted 04 March 2005 - 08:06 PM

Just got a lightweight pair made for my racing flats. Much thinner carbon-fibre shell( than my trainers) with hard lightweight EVA archfill, and full length soft rubber cover cut to size so I can discard the shoe liner and don't lift in the shoe.

#5 Steve 'The Footman'

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Posted 05 March 2005 - 12:46 AM

Some people can get away without using their orthotics when racing. Because of the increased speed, biomechanics is usually alot better.

I always use mine but mostly for comfort. They are already quite a bit lighter than the traditional orthotics. You just need to pick a racing shoe that fits the orthotics.

#6 gadis

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Posted 05 March 2005 - 08:35 PM

Thought I's offer a different perspective

I wear orthotics- have done for years- i have the full length ones. At the moment i am running in adidas control shoes. I bought a pair of asics running flats a while back while dreaming of glory. I have tried to wear them orthotic-less and its a no-go. Quite often flats wont take orthotics comfortably. Also i find that racing flats are lighter- less supportive and for the runner who pronates- can offer less hindfoot and mid foot control.Intrinsic foot control and stability is more important.

Many people who have a tendency to pronate will find this tendency is worse when fatigued. In a race where a high effort is made- leg fatigue is common for many runner. Going without orthotics in a light shoe could set you up for injuries. The previous post suggests that at a higher speed biomechanics are better (apologies if wrong). This may be fine is you are able to achieve higher speed- but as many runners find out- some times the speed wont come but the fatigue and slowing of pace does.

I would be cautious about a runner who is reliant on orthotics in training going without in lighter shoes in a race setting. Alternating flats and 'heavy' shoes in training at a lower pace with a focus on good form may help you find out 1) if your feet can cope and 2) if its worth it.