METRICS THAT MATTER: What Is Shin Angle—and Why Does It Matter?

The Hidden Lever of Speed

Shin angle isn’t something most runners ever think about—but biomechanics experts obsess over it. And for good reason: the shin’s position when your foot strikes the ground can make or break your stride efficiency.

Shin angle refers to the angle between your shin (tibia) and the ground at the moment your foot lands. A more vertical shin often correlates with better alignment and reduced braking forces.

Why It Matters in Running

Your shin angle affects:

• Forward propulsion

• Knee loading

• Ground reaction timing and stride economy

A shin that lands too far in front of your body (a “reaching” foot strike) increases impact and braking, slowing you down. A shin that’s closer to vertical allows for smoother transitions and better energy return. Think: soft landing, shin straight, foot under you—not in front of you.

What the Science Says

Biomechanics researchers at Harvard found that overstriding—often characterized by excessive forward shin angle—is a leading cause of unnecessary braking forces and injury risk.

While shin angle varies by speed and strike pattern, ideal averages at foot strike are often:

• Midfoot or forefoot strikers: 5–10 degrees from vertical

• Heel strikers: 10–15 degrees from vertical

The goal is often less about forcing a number and more about reducing excess forward lean at the shin on contact.

Couro’s Take

We analyze shin angle in every upload to help runners detect overstriding or late-stage fatigue. Small improvements in shin positioning can unlock massive gains in stride efficiency.

This post will be updated as our understanding of form mechanics and optimal shin angles continues to evolve.