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Saucony
uses the GRID system because unlike other cushioning systems
seen in technical running shoes, it offers STABLE cushioning.
As
most runners hit the ground first with their heel, this
is a crucial phase of the gait cycle. At the moment of impact,
a force of up to three times body weight is generated. In
addition to this force acting on the feet and specifically
the heel, it is transmitted up the lower leg and into the
back, affecting the ankle, knee and hip joints. Clearly
it is imperative to offer the runner significant protection
from these forces.
The
GRID cassette fits into the rearfoot section of the midsole,
as the impact occurs, the interwoven Hytrel strands bend
to the shape of the heel, while the midsole compresses,
thus providing cushioning.
The
GRID system is often likened to a trampoline, and this analogy
works well when comparing to other cushioning systems. If
you think of bouncing on a trampoline, as opposed to a bouncy
castle which represents a bag of fluid (gas, liquid etc),
it is clear that the trampoline affords the user much more
control over their movement. In essence the GRID cassette
provides controlled cushioning. Needless to say, GRID is
exclusive to Saucony - we're not sharing it - well only
with our customers!
The
strands of the GRID, 3D GRID and 30° GRID are made of
Hytrel, an elastomer, which although flexible, has a plastic
"memory" which allows it to continually regain
it's shape after flexing.
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