Your feet hit the ground thousands of times on every run, so it makes sense that the shoe you wear matters. At Amphibian King, we start with how your foot actually moves, not with the price tag or the latest colourway. That's the idea behind gait analysis, and it's why we've been helping Irish runners find the right pair since 2006.
What gait analysis is
Gait analysis is a relaxed, in-store look at how your foot lands and rolls as you walk or run. Everyone's foot is different. Some people land on the outside of the heel and roll inwards, others land more evenly, and some have a stiffer foot that barely moves at all. None of these is a fault. The point is to understand your natural movement so the shoe can work with it.
What happens on the day
We'll ask you about your running or walking, how many kilometres you cover each week, and any niggles you've had. Then you'll run along our custom-built track in the store, so we can see your feet in action at a pace that feels natural to you. We watch how your foot strikes the track, how it rolls through the step, and how your ankles and knees line up. The whole process usually takes around the time it takes to have a good chat over a cup of tea.
Neutral, stability or motion control
You'll often hear these three terms when shopping for running shoes. In plain English:
- Neutral shoes suit feet that roll inwards in a fairly even way.
- Stability shoes offer gentle support for feet that roll inwards more than average.
The label describes the shoe's support, not you. Plenty of runners who once thought they needed heavy support find they're happiest in a neutral pair, and the reverse is true too.
From analysis to shoe
Once we understand how your foot moves, we'll help you narrow down the shoes that suit it. We'll also talk about how you'll use them, whether that's daily training, speed sessions, trail routes or everyday walking. You'll try a few options, and you're welcome to take your time. Our aim is the right shoe for your foot, not the most expensive pair on the wall.
Who it's for
Gait analysis isn't just for competitive athletes. It's useful for:
- Beginners preparing for their first 5K
- Triathletes who need a shoe that works after the bike leg
- Marathoners and Ironman competitors looking to stay comfortable over long distances
- Walkers and older customers who want a comfortable, supportive everyday shoe
Next steps
Call into the shop or get in touch to book your gait analysis. Bring along the shoes you currently run or walk in. They tell us a lot about where your wear patterns are, and they give us a useful starting point for the conversation.
We'd love to help you find a shoe that feels right from the first step.