Orthotics

Yes but only if the orthotics are better suited to your feet than what is in the shoes off the shelf. Also I think the orthotics are what makes the 2160s so comfy, having switched to them from Nike triax a year ago. Is the physio recommending some off th shelf orthotics are are you getting some custom made ones? I'd be interested to hear how you get on as I may be in the same situation.

By the way when you say 'add orthotics' do you mean swap new ones in? That's the normal thing. You wouldn't put another layer on top of what is in there already (your feet wouldn't fit in for a start).

@nik  Its not really for anyone to say if its ok or not.  No one knows your feet better than you.  If you've had problems when wearing the Asics and the physio thinks you need more firm/ higher support from an orthotic then you should try it

Hi nik,

Potantially any physio you speak to could give you a different opinion, not surprised the head is battered!  Generally, i would only use orthotics as a temporary measure and normally as a last resort (in non-surgical treatment/rehab).

Truth is, any trainer (even the most cushioned or motion control trainer) will be absorbing less than 10% of the forces created through your body when running.   Now, that 5% could be the difference between getting injured and not getting injured. 

But I think a better trade-off can be had by not just looking at feet but the rest of the body as well to see WHY you are 'over-pronating' or have flat-feet.

Feet are supposed to pronate when running, its part of nature's shock absorbtion in the body.   Trainer manufacture's and some therapists use the term over-pronation as a diagnosis, but I (amongst others) think its just a symptom for something else.

Tweaking your running style e.g.  shorter strides / less heel strike or getting treatment for stiff hips and ankles may do far more for you than any type of trainer or orthotic.

Hope that helps!

2160's have some control - they are not neutral. Orthotics (off the shelf) are cast in neutral and are therefore designed to be worn in a neutral shoe (Cumulus).

But, your physio may have given you a less prescibed and less posted off the shelf orthotic to add to the control the 2160 gives.

The insole in the shoe has no support, nada, zip, zilch.

@nik. Very true!  Don't think there will ever be a definitive answer as there can never be a one-size fits all solution (despite what people trying to sell you).  ''The path to true knowledge is not knowing all the answers, it's knowing all the questions''