Definition: A shoe last is the mold upon which a shoe is formed. They come in 3 general shapes – straight, semi-straight or semi-curved, and curved lasts. You can tell which last, or shape, the shoe is by turning it upside down. The semi-straight and semi-curved lasts are very close in shape and in function. Both work best for those with medium arches, not too low and not too high. In shoes, this shaped is often called ”nuetral stride”, meaning they work best for those who do not excessively pronate or supinate. All feet need to “toe off” with the great toe (big toe). Those with medium arches do this best with a shoe that has a little curve to it but not too much. Other shoe shapes will move the medium arch foot to toe off on the other toes instead of the great toe.
Wearing shoes with the last that best matches the needs of each foot is best for the short term as well as the long term. Ankle, knee and hip function are all affected by toe off. It becomes particularly important the longer one wears the shoes at any given time and the degree of impact (whether you work on your feet all day or participate in high impact sports).
Benefit: Semi-straight and semi-curved lasts work best for those with medium arch height who who do not pronate or supinate excessively. They help move the foot to toe-off with the great toe – the optimal motion for all feet.
Text: Copyright 2010 Carole Romig Image: Footankleassociates.net
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