The invention is an article of footwear having a sole comprised of one or more support elements formed of a resilient, compressible material. The support elements are designed such that impact forces generated by movements of a wearer deflect the support elements in a manner that produces a force directed to center the wearer's foot above the sole. The directed deflection characteristics of the support elements are due to a downward cant of the support elements' upper surfaces and flexion indentations that facilitate bending in one direction.