a more structured upper for both support and durabil- ity. They also have a tough sole: A tennis court’s harsh, gritty surface wears down the rubber on all shoes quickly, so the outsole of a tennis shoe is made from a high density rubber – and a lot of it.
Like with running shoes, a proper
fitting session is necessary. “Proper fit means about a thumbnail of space between the front of the shoe and the end of the longest toe,” Queen says. “Width is also very important as the foot should not feel constricted in the shoe through the midfoot or toe, but also should not have too much room as that will cause the foot to slide around causing blisters.”
Queen advises players to replace ten-
nis shoes when the outsole becomes smooth and can no longer grab the court surface, or when the midsole cushioning system has worn down.
“If a player feels any increase in knee
or ankle pain during or after playing, the cushioning in their shoe is most likely worn out and they should get a new pair of shoes,” Queen says.
January/February 2012
Golf While golf isn’t as intensive of a sport as running and
tennis, it does require specific footwear. A golfer typi- cally walks around 5 miles – up and down hills, on wet grass – during an 18-hole round, which takes more than four hours and requires a lot of golf swings. Therefore, a golf shoe must provide significant trac- tion, according to ECCO Shoes, a manufac- turer of athletic and lifestyle shoes.
ECCO Shoes considers a stable base to be
essential to making a proper golf swing. This is achieved with a shoe’s cleats or spikes. They provide traction to keep a golfer grounded, and develop the torque in a swing to drive the ball.
Golf shoes should fit snug in the heel and
instep but be roomy in the toe box, ECCO recommends. This will help mirror barefoot walking, allowing the toes to spread when the foot hits the ground. Golf shoes should also have ample arch support.
Most importantly, golf shoes – as well as any shoe for
athletic endeavors – should feel great from the time they’re taken out of the box. Breaking-in blisters? Not necessary, or good for any game.
Health Connections 59
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