The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide 55
Figure 4-1. Parts of a Running Shoe
Some General Terms
" Outsole is the material on the bottom of the shoe that comes in direct contract
with the running surface." Midsole is the layer of cushioning that is placed between the upper and out-
soles." Lateral is the outer-edge of the shoe.
" Medial is the inner or arch side of the shoe.
" Upper is the part of the sole that is above the midsole.
" Achilles notch is the U or V-shaped cut at the top of the heel collar which
prevents irritation of the achilles tendon." Heel counter is a firm cup usually made of plastic that is encased in the
upper and surrounds the heel to control excessive rear foot motion." External heel counter is a rigid plastic collar that wraps around the heel of
the shoe to provide support and control excess pronation." Motion control designs or devices control the inward rolling or pronation of
the foot. Some amount of pronation is normal: corrective measures are neces-
sary only if there is excessive rolling or under-pronation.Terms Related to Cushioning
" Cushioning is provided by midsoles and is needed for shock absorption.