Frequently Asked Questions

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DO I NEED TO WEAR SPECIAL CLOTHING FOR A GAIT ANALYSIS?

Special clothing is not required. However, in order to perform a proper analysis, we prefer it if you’re lower legs are visible. However, you don't need to wear shorts. You can also just turn up your trouser legs a few times. Remember to take along your current running socks if possible.

CAN I HAVE A GAIT ANALYSIS PERFORMED EVEN IF I’M NOT A RUNNER?

Yes, of course, you certainly don’t have to be a runner or athlete in order to have your gait analysed.

A gait analysis will also allow us to provide you with tailored advice on walking, work or daily shoes.

DO I NEED AN APPOINTMENT FOR A GAIT ANALYSIS?

Yes, you need to make an appointment. You can make an appointment online or contact us via email or WhatsApp.

HOW MUCH DOES A GAIT ANALYSIS COST?

A gait analysis is free when buying shoes and/or insoles. However, if you don’t immediately buy something, we will charge you €30 for the analysis.
(However, this €30 can be redeemed against any shoes and/or insoles you decide to purchase within one year after the analysis.)

HOW LONG DOES A GAIT ANALYSIS TAKE?

We usually expect a gait analysis to take around 20 to 30 minutes (when measuring insoles or providing advice on shoes).

CAN I HAVE A GAIT ANALYSIS PERFORMED WHILE WEARING RUNNING SHOES THAT I BOUGHT SOMEWHERE ELSE?

Yes, of course, you don’t need to have bought the shoes from us. Via the analysis we will determine whether the shoes are suitable for you and, if necessary, adjust them, or advise you on more suitable shoes.

WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GAIT ANALYSIS AND A PROLAB ANALYSIS?

The gait analysis (Footscan pressure measurement) provides a very large amount of information about your foot roll-off used for recommending walking and running shoes and for producing insoles.
We perform this analysis as standard in every store and for every customer (from beginners to professional athletes). We discuss the results orally.

In the proLab the gait analysis (Footscan pressure measurement) is expanded with video and marker analysis (with high-speed cameras) from your full running posture.
This can be supplemented with a back scan, scan for possible leg length discrepancy and a scan for the body composition.
All results are discussed orally and sent digitally afterwards. A report of the most important results is also sent afterwards.
The prolab analysis is useful for everyone interested in a more detailed and extensive analysis from your complete running posture. Or if a gait analysis in one of our stores reveals that more extensive analysis is required.

DO I NEED TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR AN INSOLE MEASUREMENT?

Yes, you need to make an appointment if you want to have an insole measurement. You can do this via our online system. You cannot wait for your insoles, they are made in a workshop in Antwerp. Consider 1 week for D3D insoles and around 2 weeks for 3D Phit insoles.

Click here to make your appointment online.

Please remember to take along the shoes in which you will be wearing the insoles.

HOW LONG DO INSOLES LAST?

If used daily, they should last around one year. If you only use the insoles for running (two of three times a week), they should last you through around two pairs (i.e. around 2,000 kilometres). Of course, their lifespan will depend on the type of sole, the materials used and your body weight.

DO RSLAB INSOLES FIT IN ALL TYPES OF SHOES?

It is not possible to make a single insole that will fit perfectly in all types of shoes, since there are simply too many types of fit when it comes to shoes. However, we can manufacture different types of insoles, adapted to different types of shoes. In other words, a size 42 insole for a narrow dress shoe for everyday use will look different than an insole for a size 42 running shoe.

DO YOU ALSO MAKE INSOLES FOR CHILDREN?

If recommended or required by a specialist, we also make insoles for children.

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO MAKE MY INSOLES?

It takes around 20 to 30 minutes to perform the measurements. The insoles are usually ready for collection within 2-3 weeks.

Sending them by post is also possible.

WILL YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE PROVIDER REIMBURSE YOUR RUNNERS' LAB INSOLES?

A large number of insurance providers have accepted podology.
We have recognized podiatrists working at Runners' lab who perform insole analysis. They can sign the necessary documents for the insurance company in order to get reimbursed. 

HOW MUCH DO YOUR INSOLES COST?

Insoles usually cost around €129. Phits insoles cost around €169.

More information is available here.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TAKE CARE OF MY RUNNING SHOES?

Running shoes are best kept clean with lukewarm water and a mild soap. Preferably with a hand scrubbing brush. Laces should be soaked in a bucket. You should then let the shoes dry a warm, dry place, at room temperature. Make sure NOT to dry them on the radiator to prevent distortion. Do not use a washing machine or tumble dryer. 

HOW LONG DO RUNNING SHOES LAST?

The lifespan of a pair of running shoes is determined by more than visible, external wear and tear. Features such as stability and shock adoption depend strongly on the lifespan of the midsole, which is primarily determined by the total number of kilometres run. A midsole is good for about 1000 km. The midsole will last less long if you run on a lot of hard surfaces or have a higher body weight.

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY RUNNING SHOES NEED TO BE REPLACED?

It’s not always enough to inspect your soles or uppers. In some cases there may be little or no visible, external wear and tear, although the shoes won’t any longer be offering sufficient cushioning or stability because of the number of kilometres run. Feel free to pop by one of our shops for free expert advice on the wear of your shoes.

WHY CAN'T I CHOOSE THE COLOUR OF MY RUNNING SHOES?

At Runners’ lab, we subject your feet to a scientific gait analysis. Based on the measurement results, your foot type and gait will be analysed and we will provide you with advice on the most appropriate shoes and possibly also adjust them if necessary. We feel that brand and colour are much less important than stability, flexibility, fit and cushioning.

CAN I COME BACK WITH MY RUNNING SHOES IF I’M NOT GETTING ON WITH THEM?

If something still isn’t quite right after a number of running sessions, you’re certainly welcome to come back for an additional analysis. We will re-examine your gait and if necessary (and depending on the cause of the complaint) adjust your shoes for you in our workshop. Moreover, this after-sales service is free of charge.

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