The soles of their shoes will have extensive wear on the entire outside edge. These people need shoes with soft midsoles for shock absorption. Failure to control over supination can result in stress fractures of the lower leg and anterior knee pain. If one runs 30 miles a week, a pair of shoes can be expected to last about three months or more. Signs of worn shoes include excessive wear on the soles, stretched out uppers, and heels that tilt one way or the other.
Many runners believe lighter shoes are more energy efficient than heavier shoes.
Studies have shown slightly heavier shoes do not require one to expend a great deal more energy while running, but they can aid greatly in controlling excessive foot motion. Negotiating uneven terrain, the slope of a roadway, or the curve of a track may require a slightly heavier shoe to gain additional motion control. Many runners choose to train in a slightly heavier shoe than they race in to reduce stress on the foot during training. They should be directed to Alan Beste, Administrative Assistant, Iowa High School Athletic Association, PO Box 10, Boone, IA 50036. Buyers Guide, April 1990, pp.