The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide - Human Performance

The Navy SEAL Physical Fitness Guide 59

Orthotics

Individuals with biomechanical conditions that result in pain and
injury may benefit from using orthotics in their running shoes. Orthotics are shoe inserts
that are customized to an individual’s biomechanics and foot type to provide good foot
support and motion control. First, a plaster mold of the foot is made and then inserts are
developed to correct the biomechanical problem(s). These inserts are usually made of cork
soles covered by flexible leather or hard plastic. Orthotics should be gradually broken in;
first wear them while walking and then progress to running. If not properly fitted, orthotics
may worsen the problem. A podiatrist or sports medicine specialist is required to have them
custom-made.

Table 4-1. The Right Shoe for Your Foot Type

Shoe Features Flat Feet Normal Feet

High-Arched

Feet

Last - Shape Straight Semi-curved Curved

Last - Construction Combination Combination Slip

Midsole Firm Soft or firm Soft

Motion Control Yes No No

Orthotic Sole

May be needed to

correct for over-

pronation

No No

External Heel

Counter

Yes No Yes

Recommended

Shoe Type

Motion control or

stability shoes

with firm mid-

soles

Stability shoes

with moderate

control features

such as two-

density mid-sole

Cushioned

shoes to

provide lots of

flexibility and

promote foot

motion

Avoid

Highly

cushioned and

curve-lasted

shoes

Motion control

or stability

shoes