Q Form Technology

Q-Form Technology (Women’s move differently than Men)

Merrell have always been at the heart of innovation and their Q-Form Technology really proven a key and significant element within their Merrell’s women portfolio footwear. This groundbreaking technology subsequently combines properly sequenced cushioning with supportive and natural aligning midsole to create a technology than is one hundred per cent tailored to women and the way they move. In other words biomechanical researches have indicated women’s tend to have a different stride in comparison to men’s, when it evolves running and walking. One of the main reasons this occurs due to the quadriceps portion of the upper leg, and refers to the anatomical angle between the hip and the knee. A women’s Q-angle is more pronounced due to a wider pelvis and a lower centre of gravity. The name Q-angle is named for the quadriceps portion of the upper leg.

The Q Angle affects the way a Woman walks

Due to this pronounced Q-Angle, this has a significant impact whereby the initial strike of the heel tends to be concentrated on the outside of the foot often referred to supination. The consequences can be very detrimental whereby additional stress is applied on the medial ligament resulting in a great cause of discomfort for the individual. The natural tendency for a woman would be to direct their movement and weight toward the inside of the foot (pronation), twisting their foot at full heel strike. This motion occurs because the individual tries to compensate for this imbalance motion which naturally occur known as the Q-Form. At this stage women will seek to alter their stride again in order to alleviate the pressure caused from promotion, whereby the shift their weight on the lateral (outer) side of the foot. The above brief really illustrates and highlights the natural motion which takes place during a women’s walk, this cycle of altering the natural pattern of movement ultimately results in discomfort and pain. Biomechanical studies have revealed that 75% of women experience this natural cycle. At ShoesOnline4U we have a fantastic range of Merrell shoes which are all euipped with the Q Form Technology.

Q-Form Midsole

Merrell have developed the Merrell Q-Form Technology Midsole and it has proven successful technology in. Proper support and re-directing of a woman’s gait can minimize the over correction, alleviate discomfort, and reduce wear and tear on the shoe by ensuring an even wear pattern. Q-form is a molded midsole with three separate degrees of firmness. When combined with a patented air cushion, the system directs a women’s stride into amore fluid, balanced processs that results in extended comfort, stability and wear life of the shoe.

1. Upon Initial heel strike, the Merrell Air Cushion absorbs the brunt of the shock and centres heel
2. As the footrolls towards the medial side (inside) of the foot, a firm, supportive portion of the midsole gently redirects the foot toward the lateral side (outside) of the foot.
3. A neutral density cushioning zone aids in the transition of weight and pressure to the lateral side of the foot.
4. As the centre of gravity shifts to the lateral side, the foot is stabilized further by a second firm midsole zone.
5. A softer portion within the midsole provides cushioning.