We are really excited to have just launched our new website at the end of April, with more information about common foot problems, of course our new blog, products that we sell in the clinic and more information about our footwear range. We will be updating our information on a monthly basis and also keeping our blog up to date on a weekly basis, so make sure you check back regularly or follow us on our Facebook page to be updated about any new blogs.
Our first 8 blogs will be all about footwear. Each week in May & June we will be talking about a different footwear topics. So to kick it off, let’s talk footy boots!
Kicking off our 1st blog: Football boots
I thought I’d kick off are first post by talking about football boots! We see a lot of foot problems in both soccer and Aussie rules football players. There are many reasons why these particular sports are so prone to foot problems, firstly because of the nature of the sport. They are high impact, high intensity sports and a lot of running is involved.
Secondly, the choice of football boot greatly will affect how much support your foot is getting during a match.
Thirdly, the playing surface. Particularly in the ground is hard or water logged, this can lead to injury.
In this post we will focus mainly on the choice of football shoe, given you can’t really do too much to improve the grounds or conditions of the sport!
Picking the right shoe for your position
- Forwards: Consider a boot that has minimal weight for rapid movement and no laces or seems in your strike zone, preferably a grippy material.
- Defence: You may need more protection over your foot to avoid being hurt. Rounded studs might be best.
- Midfield: Light weight for endurance.
- Goalkeepers: Quick footwork is key so a light weight boot is best!
Features to look out for in a good soccer/football shoe
- Upper: Boots are usually made from either a synthetic material or from leather. Synthetic materials tend to be a bit lighter than your leather shoe, but leather tends to be a bit more comfortable as it conforms to the foot better.
- Studs: The type of stud will depends on how well your shoe will grip on to the ground:
- Blade studs: Grip better and promote speed. Great for increased traction.
- Round studs: Release a lot faster from the ground. Ideal for wet conditions.
- Moulds: Suited for natural or synthetic grass, but for drier conditions.
- Midsole: Some boots will not have a midsole which is a material that is placed between the outsole and the upper of the boot, providing extra cushioning. Unfortunately this can make a boot heavier as there is more material in the boot. This part of the shoe is preferable as it provides further support and usually is required to build the heel height.
- Innersole: This will provide some cushioning and preferably should be removable, particularly if you require orthotics down the track.
- Heel counter/height: The heel counter of a shoe should be stiff to stop your heel from moving around. Your heel should be higher than the front of your foot, particularly if you suffer from Achilles issues or in children, severs. It could also predispose you to lower limb injury.