spring 2010 running handbook

SPRING 2010
RUNNING HANDBOOK
IT’S YOUR SOLE
THE SHAPE OF COMFORT
No two feet are alike, which is why there is no such thing as one-size-fits-all. Your foot
wasn’t made flat, so why is almost all footwear made that way? SOLE footbeds and sandals
mold to fit your unique foot perfectly. Generic insoles and flat footwear simply cannot offer
the same level of arch support, control and comfort that SOLE products can.
CUSTOM FIT FOR YOUR FEET
The benefits of our orthopedic shape are personalized for your unique foot. The arch
height adjusts to your required level, but does not flatten out. The forefoot takes the shape
of the balls of your feet and toes, and the aligning heel cup supports your unique heel
shape. This creates a continuous contact point across the sole of your foot, leaving no area
unsupported. It all adds up to a superior fit, and unrivaled support and comfort.
IT’S YOUR SOLE
There are days when you can feel dismal, restless and confined. Then you go for a run and
for a moment there are only your strides, the air and the road. On the other side of your run
you find clarity, serenity and liberation. It's your passion. It's your run. It's your SOLE.
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INCREASE COMFORT, REDUCE INJURY
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INCREASE COMFORT, REDUCE INJURY
Two out of three runners are affected by injury every year. Fortunately, proper shock
absorption and correct foot alignment greatly reduce the probability of sustaining such
injuries. The following is a list of common running injuries and their potential causes:
INJURY
POTENTIAL CAUSE
Stress fracture; plantar fasciitis; iliotibial band syndrome; ankle, knee, lower back and hip strain
IMPACT FORCE
Stress fracture; plantar fasciitis; iliotibial band syndrome; ankle, knee, lower back and hip strain
HARD SURFACES
Shin splints; plantar fasciitis; iliotibial band syndrome; patellar tendonitis and loss of toenail(s)
DOWNHILL RUNNING
Achilles, calf, and hamstring strain or pain; iliotibial band syndrome
INFLEXIBILITY
Plantar fasciitis; iliotibial band syndrome; hamstring, knee and hip pain
OVER-STRIDING
Incorrect alignment
BIOMECHANICAL CONSTRAINTS
All of the above
IMPROPER FOOTWEAR
Source: Latrobe University, 2002
HOW SOLE PREVENTS INJURY
SOLE has received countless customer reports testifying to alleviated lower extremity
injuries, ranging from collapsed arches and stress fractures, to Morton’s Neuroma. People
previously crippled by a flaring sciatic nerve or severe calcaneus pain have found relief in
SOLE. But why not prevent these injuries from occurring in the first place? The superior
cushioning, heel support, and flexibility found in SOLE insoles protect the runner while
enhancing comfort and overall performance. SOLE’s balance of Softec cushioning with
rigidity in the arch and heel cup provides the perfect balance between comfort and stability.
When accurate fit and sufficient support are achieved, improved performance follows. SOLE
supplies this true fit and support, allowing you to attain optimal performance.
RUNNING GAIT: PUSH-OFF PHASE
WITHOUT SOLE
SOLE INSIDE
The fascia tendon is strained by forces
equivalent to twice your body weight,
causing not only chronic pain, but serious
injury as well.
The shape of the arch provides support for
the fascia tendon, alleviating the stress
and strain that can lead to pain and injury.
REFERENCES
Gross, ML, Napoli RC (1993). Treatment of lower extremity injuries with orthotic shoe inserts. An overview. University of Calgary. Sports Med.
Jan;15(1), 66-70.
La Trobe University; Health Sciences (August 20, 2002). Department of Podiatry – biomechanics of running. Retrieved September 1, 2007 from
http://www.latrobe.edu.au/podiatry/Biomechanicsofrunning.html
MacLean, Christopher D. (Fall 2001). Epidemiology and mechanisms of running injuries: Biomechanical and foot orthotic design issues. Sports
Medicine & Foot Orthoses. Retrieved September 15, 2007, from http://driveit.clickspace.com/webpage/1000307/1000107
HOW SOLE PREVENTS INJURY
While running, the ground reaction force, or vertical impact of a body against the ground,
is generally the equivalent of two to three times one's body weight. Often, the running shoe
does not provide the protection and support you need (MacLean, 2001). Moreover, studies
have revealed that orthotic shoe inserts “adjust the biomechanical variables associated
with running injuries and reduce the effect of high stresses produced by running” (Gross &
Napoli, 1993).
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WHY ARE GENERIC INSOLES INFERIOR?
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WHY ARE GENERIC INSOLES INFERIOR?
Most people purchase a pair of over-the-counter insoles for their new runners because
they want some extra cushioning and support. Many generic off-the-shelf insoles give the
appearance of a supportive arch, yet their arches collapse under the slightest pressure.
Most do not have a deep enough heel cup either. A deep heel cup helps align your foot
during strike, and it cradles the fatty pad around your heel, enabling your foot to cushion
itself correctly.
MOISTURE-WICKING TOP SHEET
Perforated polyester weave for maximum
breathability and moisture wicking.
Featuring 35% recycled content.
SOFTEC CUSHIONING LAYER
Industry-leading cushioning material provides
unparalleled shock absorption and comfort.
Ventilated Softec available in some models.
MOLDABLE ORTHOPEDIC BASE
Orthopedic shape contours to your unique
foot to provide custom support and alignment.
Featuring 20% recycled content.
WHY ARE SOLE FOOTBEDS SUPERIOR?
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DEEP HEEL CUP
Cradles heel, aligning the foot during heel strike
and through stride.
CUSTOM ARCH SUPPORT
Support and alignment personalized for your
unique foot shape.
WHY ARE SOLE FOOTBEDS SUPERIOR?
Our footbeds feature an orthopedic, moldable, EVA base layer that adapts to your foot
without losing its supportive shape. The orthopedic shape promotes alignment, enhancing
stability. The Softec cushioning provides unparalleled shock absorption. Depending on your
needs, there is a SOLE Custom Footbed that is ideal for your specific requirements.
PLEASE NOTE: Not all features are available on all footbeds. Please refer to the product
feature grid on page 7 to see which features are available on each model.
NEW AND IMPROVED
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NEW AND IMPROVED
We have made several significant improvements to the entire line of SOLE Custom Footbeds.
We now feature 35% recycled content in the moisture-wicking top sheet and 20% recycled
content in the moldable EVA base layer. Our new Thin Series footbeds are even thinner than
the old Slim Series. The Thin Sport is 20% thinner, and the Thin Casual is 30% thinner.
MATERIALS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE
PERFORATED POLYESTER WEAVE
OPEN CELLS
CLOSED CELLS
MAX RIGIDITY
MED RIGIDITY
MIN RIGIDITY
MOISTURE-WICKING TOP SHEET
SOFTEC CUSHIONING
VARIABLE-DENSITY EVA
Moisture next to the skin causes
discomfort. Our perforated polyester
weave pulls sweat away from the skin.
The perforations increase air flow for
even better wicking capabilities. Once the
moisture is pulled away from your foot
it spreads out to many times its original
surface area, enabling it to dry faster
than cotton. You feel drier and more
comfortable during your run.
Softec cushioning utilizes open-cell
technology. The individual pores that
make up the foam are interconnected and
function like a lung; the openings permit
the timely flow of air that cushions you
from repetitive impact. This ensures that
your SOLE Footbed is more breathable
and durable than insoles that use closedcell foams. The pores of closed-cell foams
are not connected; they function more like
bubble wrap: with enough pressure the
cells pop, leaving you with no cushioning.
The moldable EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate)
base layer features various degrees
of rigidity. This gives you the perfect
combination of rigidity and flex. Plenty
of flex in the forefoot and a more rigid
structural arch and heel cup for
unrivaled support.
FOOTBED FEATURE COMPARISON
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FOOTBED FEATURE COMPARISON
Use this product feature grid as a guide to the various combinations of cushioning, support,
and top sheets available within the SOLE Custom Footbed line.
SIGNATURE EV
ULTRA
SIGNATURE DK
RESPONSE
SOFTEC ULTRA
SOFTEC RESPONSE
SOFTEC CASUAL
THIN SPORT
THIN CASUAL
MOLDABLE
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
ARCH SUPPORT
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
DEEP HEEL CUP
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
TOP SHEET
35% Recycled
35% Recycled
35% Recycled
35% Recycled
Synthetic
35% Recycled
Synthetic
Moisture-Wicking
Moisture-Wicking
Moisture-Wicking
Moisture-Wicking
Nubuck
Moisture-Wicking
Nubuck
SOFTEC CUSHIONING
3.2mm
1.6mm
3.2mm
1.6mm
1.6mm
No
No
BASE LAYER
20% Recycled
20% Recycled
20% Recycled
20% Recycled
20% Recycled
20% Recycled
20% Recycled
Moldable EVA
Moldable EVA
Moldable EVA
Moldable EVA
Moldable EVA
Moldable EVA
Moldable EVA
Yes
No
No
Yes
No
PERFORATION
WEIGHT REDUCED
Yes
(EVA Base Only)
Yes
(EVA Base Only)
Yes
No
No
(Forefoot Only)
No
No
Yes
(Forefoot Only)
No
FOOTBED THICKNESS*
Thick
Medium
Thick
Medium
Medium
Thin
Thin
(5.5mm)
(4.0mm)
(5.5mm)
(4.0mm)
(4.0mm)
(2.5mm)
(2.0mm)
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
APMA ACCEPTED
*Footbed thickness varies depending on the amount of cushioning. The level of cushioning you prefer is a personal choice, however, you can
also choose the level of cushioning to modify the amount of space in your footwear. Take the generic insole out of your footwear (if possible) then
compare it with the thickness of SOLE footbeds. If you feel you need more room, choose a thinner footbed. If your shoe is too roomy, choose a
thicker footbed. Either do this in a store with actual SOLE Custom Footbeds or use the measurements given above as comparison.
PLEASE NOTE: The thickness measurements are for the forefoot only and may vary depending on different production runs.
SOLE PLATINUM SANDALS
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RECOVER WITH SOLE PLATINUM SANDALS
Why go through the long process of finding the perfect running shoe, complete with custom
fitted insoles, only to step out of those shoes and into a pair of shapeless flip-flops?
CUSHIONED STRAP LINING
Just the right amount of polyurethane padding.
No odor-causing neoprene.
DURABLE ERGONOMIC STRAP
Gender-specific shape wraps around your foot.
High quality, double-stitched construction.
POLYESTER TOE THONG
Gender-specific width.
ADJUSTABLE ARCH SUPPORT
One of the tallest arches available adjusts
to your foot.
WEAR MOLDABLE FOOTBED
The more you wear them, the better they fit.
HIDDEN TOE RIDGE
Provides extra gripping power while you move.
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DEEP HEEL CUP
Cushions and aligns with every step.
METATARSAL SUPPORT PAD
Lifts and supports the metatarsal arch.
EVA PHYLON MIDSOLE
EVA blend optimized for support, comfort
and durability.
ARCH SUPPORT STRUCTURE
Prevents collapse while molding to unique
arch shapes.
TWO PART OUTSOLE
Reduces weight without sacrificing grip.
NATURAL/SYNTHETIC RUBBER BLEND
Optimized grip and durability.
SOLE PLATINUM SANDALS
Inspired by SOLE Custom Footbeds, SOLE Platinum Sandals feature a moldable, orthopedic
top layer that adapts to your foot over time. This ensures the sole of your foot is in continuous
contact with the sandal. The midsole support structure ensures that the orthopedic benefits
are maintained while the top layer is personalized for your feet. This unique anatomical
design supports, cradles, and cushions your feet after a long run, allowing your foot to relax
and your metatarsals to spread out.
SOLE RETAIL PARTNERSHIPS
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SOLE RETAIL PARTNERSHIPS
SOLE offers more than just another line of products on your shelves. We are ready to assist
you with the necessary training and support for promoting healthy lifestyles and running
in your community. SOLE is partnering with running stores across North America in the
following ways:
MEDICAL REFERRALS
We know your business thrives on medical referrals. SOLE provides Medical Referral
Packages and product samples to your local health care professionals. Are you having a
medical referral evening? Let us know! One of our representatives would be happy to conduct
a product knowledge session.
COOPERATIVE ADVERTISING
Do you advertise in your local newspaper, radio or online? We can provide you with
comprehensive ad packages customized for your needs.
EMPLOYEE PURCHASE PROGRAM
We believe it is essential for your retail staff to not just know SOLE but to understand SOLE.
Through our Employee Purchase Program, we offer your staff a significant discount on all SOLE
products. After all, the best way to learn about SOLE is to experience the difference firsthand.
SOLE CLINICS
Who says learning can't be fun? SOLE is here to offer your staff educational clinics that are
both science-based and engaging. Contact us to set up an appointment.
STAFF INCENTIVES
SOLE has a competitive streak and we're sure your staff does too! We hold an annual sales
contest, offering your staff an opportunity to be rewarded for their hard work.
WEEKLY RUNS
We provide draw prizes, personal achievement packages, water bottles and socks for your
weekly running programs.
LOCAL RACES & MARATHON EXPOS
Similar to our weekly run programs, we provide everything from gift packages, to footbeds,
socks or sandals, to race package literature and coupons. Your local SOLE representative can
also assist you at your race or marathon expo. Contact us with details.
SOLE USER TESTIMONIALS
BOB TYSEN, MEMBER US DUATHLON TEAM
“I am extremely pleased with my SOLE Custom Footbeds. I have pronated feet and had used
custom made orthotics in the past, but they were expensive and somewhat uncomfortable.
I was looking online for an inexpensive alternative when I stumbled onto your product.
Although I was a bit skeptical, the money-back guarantee gave me the confidence to order.
I’m sure glad I did. I think they are more comfortable and just as effective as the $300
orthotics my doctor had made for me. My feet and knees are feeling much better. I have
been able to jog almost pain-free for the first time in years.”
JEREMY RHOTEN
"As a Specialty Footwear Retailer, I have access to virtually every shoe on the market. When
SOLE decided to launch the Platinum Sandal, I was very sceptical of an $80 sandal. In fact,
I decided not to order any for my store because I felt the price was just too high. When
my sales rep at SOLE asked me to simply try one pair for myself, I thought, fair enough,
I'll test them out. Two months later, I've sold a pile of these sandals, and I've not taken
my pair off my feet. Keep in mind I personally own over 300 pairs of shoes. This sandal is
biomechanically perfect, great for people with or without foot pain, and is bar none the most
comfortable shoe I've ever worn."
TED W MCGREER, TED'S SHOE & SPORT
"Fleet Feet Fayetteville has had great success with SOLE for the past seven years. We
carry the Softec Ultra and Slim Sport. The unique shape and moldable features make it a
hit with our customers. The 90 day money back guarantee proves that they stand behind
their products. The reason customers continue to come back for these footbeds is simple;
because they work. After introducing the SOLE Custom Footbeds to our local podiatric
community, many of them don't hesitate to refer their patients to our store for fittings."
FLEET FEET SPORTS FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS
SOLE USER TESTIMONIALS
“Your insoles are awesome! I had plantar fasciitis and could not properly walk for one and a
half months. I started using the insole and was immediately able to power walk. I did this for
an entire month until I was able to run again. I now use the insoles in both my cycling and
running shoes. I have tried a lot of insoles and cushions, however nothing had come close to
helping me like SOLE.”
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WHO'S GOT SOLE INSIDE?
WHO'S GOT SOLE INSIDE?
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DEAN KARNAZES
KAREN LUNDGREN
JEN SEGGER
Ultramarathon Runner, Windsurfer,
Extreme Athlete
Age: 45 Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Co-Captain Team SOLE Adventure Racing,
Multi-sport and Ski Coach
Age: 41 Hometown: Big Bear, CA
Age: 29 Hometown: Duncan, BC
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SPECIALTIES
Ran 350 miles non-stop
Won Kiehl’s Badwater Ultra Marathon, 2004
Won Vermont 100 Mile Endurance Run, 2006
ESPY Award Best Male Outdoor Athlete 2006
Swam across San Francisco Bay
Being able to smile in times of absolute hell
and torture, energy source for (sometimes)
4 grown adults for days on end.
FAVORITE SOLE FOOTBED?
The Signature DK Response, of course!
WHY SOLE?
SOLE Custom Footbeds have put a new
bounce in my step. The added support
these moldable footbeds provide creates
an unprecedented level of comfort, mile
after mile. And I take greater comfort in
knowing that each pair sold helps a child
become more active and healthier. It’s a
winning combination! ($1 from every pair
of DK SOLE sold is donated to Karno Kids
Charity; inspiring children to lead healthy,
active lives).
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
3x winner - Baja Travesia adventure race
1st North Face Ultra 50 miler (Washington)
2nd San Diego 100miler Ultra
FAVORITE SOLE PRODUCT
Eco-Motion Pro, Brazil
Xtreme6000, Argentina
Raid the North Extreme, Canada
XPD 250 Adventure, Portugal
Raid Eco-Endurance, Canada
Platinum Sandals! They rock! Incredibly
comfortable and supportive, the ultimate
flip-flop for pre- and post-competition as
well as daily wear. The sandals mold right
away to the feet, provide extreme cushioning
making them comfortable to stand in for
long periods of time.
WHY SOLE?
WHY SOLE?
I had tried SOLE Custom Footbeds in my
ski and snowboard boots but never in
my running shoes. I thought I was pretty
happy with the stock footbeds. With SOLE
Footbeds in my shoes the difference
was instant. I immediately had VAST
improvement in my run performance,
reduction of pain and soreness... Comfort
means you can train more and enjoy
running. I’ll never wear a pair of sport
shoes without SOLE footbeds again.
SOLE is at the forefront for combining
innovation with personal needs. My
body takes so much physical abuse on a
yearly basis and I know that if I can start
with taking care of my feet, the base
for all athletic movement, than I can be
preventative towards injury and imbalances.
I've experienced a huge reduction in
blisters during ultra-running thanks to the
combination of the SOLE footbed with the
performance socks.
WINS TO DATE
SOLE IN THE MEDIA
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NEW YORK TIMES
TRIATHLETE'S WORLD MAGAZINE
April 2009
"SOLE says the Platinum Sandal is ideal
to wear post run, when you want to cool
off, and having tested them in the Canary
Islands recently, we'd have to agree. The
shoes do actually mould to your feet over
the course of a week - not only can you feel
the change, but you can see it too. These
means that they become more comfortable
as time goes by - unlike most flip flops
which provide no support and tend to feel
like they're dislocating your big toe!"
May 2009
"This sandal bears the American Podiatric
Medical Association seal of acceptance,
meaning that the shoe was put through a
series of tests to verify its manufacturers'
claims, and it passed. 'The footbed molds
to the foot, and the sandal is much more
supportive than a typical flip-flop,' Dr.
Christina said. 'In fact, it was the most
supportive sandal in the test.' He noted that
while he doesn't like thong-style sandals,
he didn't find the toe strap of this one 'overly
irritating.' The placement of the strap
toward the rear of the footbed also means
the sandals don't slap when you walk."
July 2009
"You could probably wear these sport flip
flops for everything pre- and post-race.
The first time you slip them on they feel
like old friends, which is in large part
thanks to the top layer of EVA foam that
sits underneath your feet and gradually
moulds and shapes to you. The result is a
sandal that supports, cradles and cushions
your feet and is a pleasure to wear."
MEN'S FITNESS MAGAZINE
RUNNER'S WORLD MAGAZINE
OUTSIDE MAGAZINE
August 2009
"...SOLE Platinum Sport Flips are in a
league of their own in countering the
damaging effects flip-flops cause. Their
supportive shape, gender-specific straps,
hidden toe ridge and deep heel cup keep
them closer to the foot, conserving energy
while keeping your foot and body aligned."
August 2009
"Wearing flat-soled footwear can cause
injury, so try these sport flip flops instead.
The orthopaedic soles mould to the shape
of your foot, helping you keep a natural
arch position and maintain neutral body
alignment. This can help with the healing
of plantar fasciitis, says the maker."
August 2009
"A true orthopedic sandal, especially helpful
for those with plantar fasciitis, the Sport
Flips feel like they were custom-made for
your foot the first time you wear them"
SOLE IN THE MEDIA
RUNNING FITNESS MAGAZINE
2923 5th Avenue NE Calgary Alberta T2A 6T8
Telephone 403 204 0907 Fax 888 691 0714 Toll Free 866 235 SOLE (7653)
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