When it comes to finding the right type of running shoes, there are many different factors that take precedence. One of those factors is something called “drop”.
The drop of a shoe is basically the height distance between the heel and forefoot of the shoe, measured in millimeters.
Although it may be the least thing you may notice, learning about the drop will incredibly benefit your running experience, performance, and ways of preventing injury.
Understanding Drop
#1. A Basic Concept
The drop for running shoes can normally come in the range of low (0-4 mm), moderate (5-8 mm), and high (9 mm and above).
A higher drop means there will be a greater amount of cushioning in the heel, while with lower drops, the foot is encouraged into a more natural position.
This variance may influence how your foot hits the ground, your form of running, and the pattern of forces experienced through the body during a run.
#2. Running Form and Mechanics
Drop, definitely, plays a critical role in determining your running mechanics. A higher drop shoe encourages a rearfoot strike where the heel is the first to hit the ground.
This is quite useful if you are one of those runners who like well-cushioned touch-downs.
Low drop shoes, on the other hand, promote midfoot or forefoot strike that helps runners to achieve a natural and efficient running gait.
#3. Influence on Comfort and Cushioning
Comfort is key for runners, and the amount of drop significantly affects how comfortable a shoe feels over long distances.
A higher drop could be beneficial for added cushioning for those who require a bit more support, especially individuals with injury issues or those running on harder surfaces.
This extra cushioning can easily make for a less responsive feel and at times masks the problems of running form.
What matters most is to find the drop that balances just right, either high for a little extra cushioning or low to get that pure running feel, be it from personal preference or need.
