How to Choose Running Shoes

How to Choose Running Shoes Quote:
“If the shoe doesn’t fit the foot, must we change the foot?”
~ Gloria Steinem

One of the most appealing parts of running, besides what a great weight loss tool it can be, is the fact that is so darn cheap. You don’t need to take lessons or buy expensive equipment; all you need is a positive attitude and a good pair of running shoes.

Knowing how to choose running shoes can save you time, aggravation, money, and possibly some sore feet. Here are some things to think about when buying your most important piece of jogging gear.

These days our choices are limitless when it comes to buying virtually anything, and that includes running shoes. The endless stream of advertisements and techno-babble hype can be very confusing. That is why the best thing you can do is to take your time and talk to an experienced shoe salesperson at a qualified shoe store. They will be able to match you up with the best shoe for your type of foot and the level of running you plan to do.

Buy for Your Foot Type

Your foot type will determine what shoe will work best for you.

• If you have flat feet you might need a motion-control shoe. This is a shoe that has a straight shape and provides a lot of support for your foot.
  
  
• If you have high arches you will need more of a cushioned shoe that can absorb more shock.
  
  
• If you are lucky and have a regular foot you can use what the shoe manufacturers call a stability shoe which is basically in the middle of the other two shoes.
  
  

If the Shoe Fits Wear It - Otherwise Forget It

Make sure the shoe fits. Forget about all of the technology, the most important part of finding the right shoe is making sure it fits properly. You want a shoe that is snug but not overly tight.

• Make sure that your heel fits snugly into the rear of the shoe and doesn't slide up and down when you run.
  
  
• Take the shoes out for a test run, even if they feel really good. 
  
  
• Go ahead and try two or three other shoes. You will be surprised how amazingly different the shoes can feel.

Shoe Company Track Records Count

You should stick with proven shoe companies that have good reputations to ensure you have a shoe that offers both comfort and durability.

• Ask other runners what shoes they wear and how their luck has been with them.
  
  
• Be prepared to spend $75 or more for your shoes. When you get up over $100 you start to see shoes with added durability and quality.
  
  
• Once you have chosen a shoe that works for you, stick with it. New attractive looking shoes are always coming out, but if you have a shoe that works for you and helps you avoid injury it is worth keeping them around.

One thing I try to do is to keep an eye on a pair of shoes I like and watch for the shoe manufacturer to come out with a new model of that shoe.

Sometimes when that happens they will mark the price down of the old model anywhere from 25% to 50%. But, these shoes go quickly once the new ones come out so you have to drop into the shoe store every few weeks to watch for the new model to come out.

Two Pair Are Better Than One

Once I buy a new pair of running shoes and have a good feel about them after running for a couple of weeks, I will go back to the running store and buy another pair of them. Most shoe companies will make significant changes or discontinue a shoe in less than a year, so if you like the shoe it is a good idea to have a second pair.

A good pair of running shoes will last you anywhere from 300 to 500 miles.

IMPORTANT: When your shoes no longer offer you the support you need it’s time for new ones.

Other pages that might interest you:

• Running for the Beginner
• Fun and Challenging Running Workouts