Heel stack in shoes refers to the total height of the shoe material between the bottom of your heel and the ground.
Understanding heel stack is part of understanding the overall stack height of a shoe. As referenced, The stack height of a shoe refers to how much cushioning material is between your foot and the ground. Heel stack is specifically this measurement taken at the heel.
The Role of Stack Height and Heel Stack
The stack height, and consequently the heel stack, directly relates to the amount of cushioning a shoe provides.
- Higher Stack: According to the reference, A running shoe with a higher stack height will have more cushioning... such as a maximalist running shoe so that your foot is elevated on more of a platform above the ground. A high heel stack means there is a significant amount of foam or other cushioning material under the heel, offering enhanced shock absorption.
- Lower Stack: A lower heel stack means there is less material between the heel and the ground. This can result in a more "ground feel" or connection to the surface, which some users prefer.
How Heel Stack Differs from Heel Drop
It's important not to confuse heel stack with heel drop (also known as offset).
| Feature | Definition | Measurement Area | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heel Stack | Total height of shoe material under the heel. | Measured at the heel. | Primarily relates to cushioning and protection. |
| Heel Drop | The difference in height between the heel stack and the forefoot stack. | Calculated difference. | Influences foot strike pattern and gait. |
For example, a shoe might have a high heel stack but a low heel drop if the forefoot stack is also relatively high.
Practical Implications of Heel Stack
The heel stack of a shoe influences several factors related to comfort, performance, and biomechanics:
- Cushioning Level: Higher heel stack generally means more impact protection, which can be beneficial for long distances, recovery runs, or for individuals who need extra shock absorption.
- Stability: Extremely high stack heights, especially if narrow, can sometimes compromise stability, although many modern high-stack shoes incorporate wider bases or stabilizing features.
- Feel: A lower heel stack provides a more direct connection to the ground, which some runners or walkers prefer for better proprioception (awareness of body position).
- Weight: More material under the heel usually adds weight to the shoe, although advancements in foam technology are making high-stack shoes increasingly lightweight.
In summary, heel stack is a key component of a shoe's overall stack height, indicating the volume of cushioning material specifically under the heel, directly impacting comfort, shock absorption, and the overall feel of the shoe.
