The influence of footwear on the human gait

The development of individual gait and running patterns is influenced by internal (anatomical, anthropometric) and external (activity-related, environmental) factors. The predominantly used rearfoot running style is mainly attributed to the use of cushioned shoes, although from an anthropological perspective running barefoot, and thus running forefoot, is considered to be more natural. Numerous studies have shown a long-term influence of habitual footwear use on foot morphology, running biomechanics and basic motor skills. It has further been shown that an acute change in footwear, e.g. by running barefoot, immediately changes kinematics and vertical load parameters. However, to date, there is no strong evidence for an influence of habitual footwear use or footstrike patterns on the prevalence of injuries or physical complaints.

Automated summary

The development of gait and running patterns is influenced by internal and external factors. Cushioned shoes have led to the predominance of rearfoot running, although running barefoot is considered more natural. Habitual footwear use has long-term effects on foot morphology, running biomechanics, and motor skills, and acute changes in footwear can immediately alter kinematics and load parameters. However, there is currently no strong evidence linking habitual footwear use or footstrike patterns to injury prevalence or physical complaints.