Million Whys Press logo
Million Whys PressToronto
← Book 10 videos

Book 10, Question 23 · Video

Why Do Sneakers Cushion Landings?

Video · 1:50 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 10

Sneakers cushion landings because they spread out the force when your foot hits the ground! That makes the hit gentler on your ankles, knees, and hips. Worn-out shoes cushion less.

Read the full answer →

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why do sneakers cushion landings?

The Big Idea

Sneakers cushion landings because they spread out the force when your foot hits the ground! That makes the hit gentler on your ankles, knees, and hips. Worn-out shoes cushion less.

Force on Landing

Step one: force on landing. Each time your foot lands, the ground pushes back on your body. When you run or jump, that push can be several times your body weight.

Foam Spreads It

Step two: foam spreads it. The foam in a sneaker sole squishes a little, which slows the hit and spreads the force over more time. A softer, slower landing is kinder to your body, much like landing on a mattress instead of a hard floor.

Joints Stay Happy

Step three: happy joints. Your ankles, knees, and hips take gentler hits. Shoes that fit well also give support and grip, so you do not slip. Tie the laces snugly so your foot stays put.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! The foam sole squishes and cushions. The bottom tread grips the ground. A good fit supports your foot. And worn-out shoes cushion less, so it is time for new ones.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Good shoes protect your joints. Kids' feet grow fast, so check your shoe size now and then. Different sports use different kinds of shoes, such as running shoes, soccer cleats, and court shoes. If your feet hurt, tell a grown-up.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Be a detective and turn over your shoes. Look at the treads for uneven wear. Show a grown-up, because worn spots are clues!

Outro

Sneakers spread out impact so your joints take gentler hits. Science is amazing! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

Why I wrote this