The Fit Process
To fully understand how the BPRC fit process works and how it is an integral part of proper footwear selection, it is useful to first understand some of the basic aspects of foot mechanics in runners and walkers. Specifically, we want to elaborate on Gait Cycle and Pronation.
Both the Gait Cycle and Pronation are an integral part of the BPRC Fit Process.
The Fit Process Explained
The BPRC fit process is designed to ensure each guest finds the best fitting shoe within the correct footwear category. It consists of the following steps:
1. Considering Usage Intentions
Different shoes are made for different users, but also for different usage intentions. Type of activity and distance, whether it’s marathon training, a 5K or 10K road race, a triathlon or a walking event can play a role in proper footwear selection. Likewise, the surface, whether it’s a trail, track, treadmill or road, can also influence footwear selection.
2. Understanding Biomechanics
Using Video Gait Analysis, we gain an understanding of an individual’s pronation tendency, enabling us to guide each guest to the correct footwear category. Footwear is classified at BPRC by the degree of stability it provides. Whether it’s a Motion Control (high stability) shoe, a Structured Cushioning (moderate or mild stability) shoe, or a Neutral Cushioning (little or no stability) shoe, it is crucial to correctly match the degree of stability a shoe provides with the degree of stability that an individual needs. Watching frame-by-frame footage from our Video Gait Analysis enables BPRC to zero in on the nuances of each individual. It also allows YOU to view the footage, making it easier for you to understand why one particular category of footwear will be more appropriate for you than another.
3. Learning About Foot Characteristics
BPRC uses a comprehensive foot digital analysis program to gather data related to arch type and foot width. We will also talk with each guest and look at your feet to learn about any injuries or inconsistencies that need to be taken into account (neuromas, bunions, sensitive areas, etc.) If you use, or are considering the use of over the counter inserts or custom orthotics, this too, will factor into our conversation. All of this is important information to consider when selecting a shoe. Within each footwear category, different shoes are constructed to match particular foot types, as well as to accommodate orthotics.
4. Fit, Feel & Ride
Given what was learned in the first two steps, and given our intimate knowledge of the various construction methodologies of each shoe, we will bring out a few different shoes that we feel should be considered. At this phase, feedback from you, our guest, is crucial (because it is here where science meets art). Consideration should be given to fit (length, width, heel stability and toe box volume), feel (how the shoe contours to the foot), and ride (cushioning, responsiveness, weight and transition from rearfoot to forefoot). We always recommend that our guests run or walk in each shoe in order to get a true understanding of how each shoe feels and performs while it is being used for its intended purpose. Our respective sidewalks, parking lots and treadmills are available to you for this testing.
