SOLE Softec Response Footbeds : Running

I haven't done as much running as I would have liked in the last month or so - it's been tough fitting it in with cycling and Crossfit (and going to work!), plus I've been struggling with knee pain, which has put a bit of a mental dampener on runs. It's no fun to go out for a run, just wondering when things are going to start hurting. Fingers crossed I can get that under control soon... 
But on the occasions I have managed to make it out for a successful jaunt around the roads and parks of Surrey I've been testing out these SOLE Softec Response Footbeds in my Brooks Ravenna running shoes. 

The Brooks Ravenna is a mild stability shoe, to help with my moderate overpronation and I find it generally very comfortable to run in. 
SOLE produce footbeds and sandals which are designed to fit your unique foot shape perfectly, and provide much more arch support, comfort and control than generic insoles (but without the price tag of custom orthotics). 
These orthopedic insoles consist of a mouldable base layer, and a moisture wicking top sheet.

3 Simple Steps To Ensure A Perfect Fit:

  1. Heat In Oven
  2. Place In Shoe
  3. Step into shoes.
Or you can simply place the insoles in the shoes straight away and allow your feet to mould them into shape over time. 
During the moulding process the arch height adjusts to your required level, but does not flatten out. The forefoot takes the shape of the balls of your feet and toes, and the aligning heel cup supports your unique heel shape. This is designed to create a continuous contact point across the soles of your feet, leaving no area unsupported. 
"Cooking" my insoles
The custom support allows your foot to function properly and help prevent over-pronation which an can lead to a range of conditions such as shin splints, knee pain and plantar fasciitis. 
I can't say that adding the insoles to my shoes was a magical cure for my knee pain, but I did feel an extra level of cushioning and support, particularly in my arch. Feeling the insole under your foot can take some getting used to, but I like the confidence it gives me that my feet are properly aligned. 
Source
The above image also shows how much extra cushioning the SOLE insoles offer under the heel, which is great for impact sports like running, as well as giving a more even spread of pressure improving proprioception and balance. 

The insoles are designed with durability in mind too, which adds to their appealing price tag. Dean Karnazes (American Ultramarathon runner) ran on his SOLE Signature Edition DK's during his Endurance50 in 2006 (50 marathons in 50 states in 50 consecutive days). He used 4 pairs of shoes and only 1 pair of footbeds- not bad going!

In the debate between supportive insolves and minimalist barefoot running, where do you stand?

Beki x

NB: I was sent a pair of SOLE Custom Footbeds to try out, but as always all opinions are my own. 

SOLE Custom Footbeds come in three different levels of thicknesses to accommodate different footwear – runners should opt for the Softec Response. Between Β£38 - Β£42 from www.yoursole.co.uk.


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