There are literally hundreds of various running footwear models and brands, and they're all most likely manufactured to meet the requirements of each and every distinct runner. Each brand name will use their own set of qualities and every model manufactured by each brand name includes a distinct group of design characteristics which they use. The challenge with the suggesting and buying running footwear is the fact that each and every runner will have a different foot shape and size as well as a different way that the foot functions and the way that they run and all of this should be matched up with the proper attributes of a running shoe to fulfill their needs. These types of various attributes include options including the drop, which is the distinction between the height of the shoe beneath the ball of the foot as opposed to the heel. The level of extra padding in different parts of the running footwear may also change in various footwear and it is yet another varied design characteristic. Some runners require more cushioning, and many runners want much less. The midsole that is the bottom part of the shoe is one of the characteristics of the running footwear that differs the most. This midsole is usually a single density or dual density.

A dual density feature is what is called a medial post. This is when you will find a increased density substance within the midsole about the medial aspect of the midsole only. This medial posting was initially introduced back in 1984 within the Tiger X-Caliber GT running shoe which later became the ASICS Kayano model. The main purpose of this medial post attribute was as one of a variety of movement control design options inside running shoes to control ‘overpronation‘ with the feet in the runner. In those days ‘overpronation’ was thought to be a problem for athletes. This is where the foot rolled inwards too much at the rearfoot, therefore it does make some sense that the running shoe be firmer in that medial section of the midsole in an attempt to prevent this. Having said that, the evidence on the medial posting actually being able to do that is not great. The reason behind this is that the medial posting can have differing effects on various runners and just how well which it works is dependent upon what produces this ‘overpronation’. This is in addition according to the idea that anything really should be done about the ‘overpronation’, which isn't always true. In a few runners, this medial posting is especially helpful as it may move the centre of ground reaction forces medially. This may adjust lever arms across the joints in the feet and many health care professionals find that significantly beneficial in the management of some runners’ concerns.

Medial posting being a design characteristic that is used in running footwear is now being made use of much less now and some manufacturers have dropped it. That is a shame as it still may have helpful uses in many athletes that could reap the benefits of this. It is not destined to be of much use for athletes which do not require it.