Running Shoe Diaries: Need a Spring in Your Step?

Ever wake up feeling like you didnt sleep at all? You drag yourself to the bathroom to splash cold water on your face, kicking your toes at least 5 times. Your morning ritual of breakfast and preparing for the day is mired by an iron that left a rusty stain on your white shirt, missing car keys, etc. To make matters worse, the television mocks you with The best part of waking up, is Folgers in your cup AND Could have had a V-8. What you really need, is a spring in your step. So you reach into your closet and lace up your new Z-Coil shoes!!!

So what are Z-Coil shoes and why the crazy spring?

The Z-Coil was created in 1995 by Alvaro Gallegos, an avid runner, who began developing typical pains and twinges associated with running. His design was based on decreasing impact at heel contact, thus reducing pain. He also thought that the energy stored in the spring would help him run farther and faster. Since the initial design, new designs have included casual shoes, hiking shoes, and work shoes. What does the shoe offer that a regular running shoe doesnt have?

  • Conical spring designed to reduce impact by 40-60%
  • Orthotic can be altered as needed
  • Flex line encourages bending at the ball of the foot
  • Extra wide toe box relieves pressure on toes

Z-Coil shoes have been indicated for many conditions, including: plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, flat feet, back pain, etc.

Again, flogging the proverbial dead horse, before you decide to purchase these shoes please research, research, research. With any new type of shoe, it is important to understand your body and its needs. The shoe itself is not inherently dangerous, but it may not be the best choice for every individual. Please remember you can always seek the advice of Dr. Jeff Bowman of Houston Foot Specialists. Dr Bowman can be reached at 713-467-8886 or online appointments available at

2013 Jeff Bowman., All Rights Reserved

Category: Footwear

Tags: Achilles Tendonitis, Flat Feet, Footwear, Hiking, Plantar Fasciitis, Rocker Bottom Shoes, Running, Running Shoes, shoes, Work Shoes, Z-Coil Shoes