#109 What Heel Counters Actually do for Runners

Heel counters are often overlooked when choosing a shoe, but their design can make or break a shoe for runners. Heel comfort is critical to the ability to run in a shoe. They're also often touted to promote stability and biomechanical benefits, but what do they actually accomplish? Nate, DJ, and Matt dive into the design, research, and evidence surrounding heel counters. We're also excited to give this month to Club West Track in Santa Barbara, CA. The Subjective: what's a specific part of a shoe that can make it or break it for you? Chapters 0:00 - Intro 2:56 - The Subjective: what's a specific part of a shoe that can make it or break it for you? 5:35 - Defining the heel counter 15:14 - The origin & purpose of heel counters 24:33 - The evidence of the effects on heel counters on biomechanics 31:51 - The importance of heel lockdown in carbon-plated shoes 38:38 - Physical conditions that might effect heel fit in shoes 45:24 - How to lace-lock your shoes 48:54 - Wrap-up