If I may add to the discussion. I understand the arguments both ways on
historical vs. modern footwear. In the past 20 years I have helped many of
my fencers that had knee, ankle, hip, and foot problems ( some severe enough
to miss work and/or use crutches) by using arch supports. Some after they'd
seen doctors several times for diagnoses of gout, sprains, torn cartiledge,
or other operatable cause. They all now fence regularly and walk without
pain. Some wear smooth soles to fence for a gentler, but very effective,
style, and others wear grippy athletic soles for max flying ability. All
wear the arch supports at all times. All with enjoyment. I feel that the
sole should match the style of fencing and the person, with the uppers to
match the period.
Basically: carefully watch your fencer walk normally in shoes from behind
and from front. If you see pronation at the mid-to-end of the step they need
arch supports. Start at 3/8" and increase until the pronation disappears.
Place under the inner sole and taper out for comfort. Pronation at the end
of step causes grinding at the joints as the lower leg bones twist.
There's a book "The Running Doctor" that has more info.
Mike Anson
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