Starting on the right foot
It all starts with a good sports shoe
There are many types of sports shoe. If you’re playing netball you need to have a shoe that suits the activity you’ll be doing. The right shoes will give you the most support while playing and can lessen your chances of being sidelined because of injury.
What shoe for you?
Here’s a look at three types of sports shoes…Crosstrainers
These are a multipurpose shoe – a ‘jack of all trades and master of none’. They’re good for walking, gym or as an all round weekend shoe.
They’re not the best for netballers because they don’t provide the support you need for regular games and training.
Running shoes
Running shoes are designed for just that – running. They provide grip and support but are only designed to go in one direction: straight ahead.
They aren’t designed to give lateral support or support for changes of direction, so they’re not good netball shoes.
Netball shoes
Specifically designed for the sport, netball shoes are the ideal shoe for players. They’re sturdy, supportive and provide vital support when changing direction and moving laterally.Remember: running shoes should be kept for running, while netball shoes should be kept for netball.
Buying a shoe
Finding a good shoe store is important. Specialist sports shoe shops have trained staff and equipment, including treadmills and video/computer analysis to help identify your needs. While such a store is probably the best place to buy your shoes, check that their prices are competitive.When wearing netball shoes…
Make sure your laces are tied firmly throughout the whole shoe, not just at the top where you tie them; otherwise the shoe gives poor support. Beware of tying too tightly at the top - you could end up with lateral foot pain. And don’t slip your shoes on and off while the laces are still tied – you’ll wear them out faster.Taking special problems into account
If you have lower limb pain and/or poor biomechanics, it may be worth seeing a Physiotherapist. You may then be referred to a podiatrist, or for an X ray, etc, if needed. Or you may simply need a new pair of shoes, suited to your foot type and needs.Orthotics
Not everyone needs orthotics. Even if you’ve used a pair years ago, you don’t necessarily need them now. The foot is a dynamic structure and is changing. Where the foot was three years ago, isn’t necessarily where the foot is now. If in doubt, check with a podiatrist every few years, to assess your current situation.How long do shoes last?
Remember that shoes aren’t built to last. As a general rule of thumb, sports shoes will last for one year if they are being worn three times a week. Players wearing them more often will need to replace them earlier.
A word to coaches
Anytime your team is preparing for major games and competitions it may be worth checking that your players have suitable footwear so they can last the week of competition, injury and blister free.
Want to know more? Please contact Megan Crockett, NetballSmart Coordinator: meganc@netballnz.co.nz
Thanks to Kim Tottingham (Academy of Sport Podiatrist) for her contribution and the Consumer Magazine, November 2003.
