Effects of Different Types of Protective Boots on the Plantar Pressure Distribution Characteristics of Young Men

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of different types of protective boots on the plantar pressure distribution of young males, and to provide theoretical guidance for the optimal design of protective footwear. Twelve young males who participated in regular physical training were instructed to wear four different types of protective boots and perform normal walking, goose-stepping, and running exercises. An insole-type plantar pressure measurement system was used to collect plantar pressure data, and several parameters, such as peak pressure, pressure-time integral, and contact area, were analyzed. The results indicated that, compared with the other three types of protective boots, F1 protective boots had higher peak pressure and pressure-time integral values in the forefoot and heel regions, which might increase the likelihood of foot fatigue and pain; F4 protective boots had an integrated arch-supporting insole, which effectively redistributed plantar pressure and reduced pressure in the forefoot and heel regions, thus lowering the risk of overuse injuries to the foot; F2 and F3 protective boots both used EVA foam as the midsole material, which offered better cushioning and rebound properties, leading to lower peak pressure and pressure-time integral values in various plantar regions. This study suggested that the application of arch-supporting insoles and lower-hardness midsole materials might be a feasible strategy to alleviate impact injuries to the foot.