Until I find full length after market high arch orthotics that aren't custom made($$$) that fully fit to replace the stock Altra footbeds I use arch cookies also called scaphoid pads(when they are called this expect them to be gourmet priced
) under the stock Altra footbed. Some shoes stores give you arch cookies when buying shoes but you might be able to finagle a pr for free if asking nicely. They are just little pieces of foam like material usually with at least one sticky side.
Typical causes of PF I don't have or have previously/currently address(ed) - 1) neutral, don't have excessive pronation, my running and walking mechanics have been analyzed multiple times by running, footwear, and orthopedists and podiatrist professionals, I've had to correct a couple of things though which took a couple of yrs, I've made it a priority, I'm not fan of surgeries or pain meds that address symptoms, I want to address causes proactively 2) don't have arthritis or any syndromes that might exacerbate or cause PF 3) not overweight and typically carry 22 lb or lighter wt kit which includes 5-6 days consumables 4) I stretch achilles tendons, platter fascia, and calf muscles keeping them loose 5) prioritize dialing in shoe fit and appropriateness of model for each hike 6) replace worn shoes out for running, backpacking, tennis, walking and basketball regularly, this is far more important to me as one on my feet so often for recreation and work than obsessing over 2-3 oz saved on pricey cuben or other gear taking into context that I haven't hit the Lotto jackpot yet, when heel cush pancakes to feel like I'm walking on swiss cheese it's time to get new shoes and/or new footbeds or MAYBE heel cushions to extend the life of other wise reasonably in good condition footwear another 200 miles 7) do support my high arches. Beyond that I don't know about PF.
I'm inclined to pay $20 for foot massages that stretch the not overly sore plantar fascia seeing it as a worthy investment to continue experiencing what I do.
Not a huge fan of minimalist shoe running or extreme minimalist backpacking shoes particularly going long distances on hard surfaces although for some that's the rage and a approach that works very well. I like some cush but not a sloppy teetering on a pedestal feel. In some conditions I do like to feel the ground more. I don't plod when running, playing tennis or b ball, or backpacking.
Hoka Stinson ATR's were too narrow in the forefeet for my feet. Love their cush as you do but they can feel a little spongey/marshmellowy for some. I'd like to see a Altra or Keen large type shaped footbox in the HOKA line up. For now the Altra Olympus 2.0, Superior 3.0, and for more abrasive lower MPD avgs some of the Keens are my go to backpacking low cuts. I'm awaiting the Altra Timpanogos set to arrive on the scene sometime in summer to demo. I like HOKA's around home when feet aren't apt to be as swollen.
Moving from Lonepeak 2.5's to 3.0's
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Originally Posted by Secondmouse
