How to Choose Running Shoes

By eHow Sports & Fitness Editor

Rate: (16 Ratings)

There's a lot riding on your feet when you run. A well-designed, comfortable pair of shoes can prevent injury and make running more enjoyable.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Step1
Dip a bare foot into water and step on a piece of paper placed on a hard surface.
Step2
Trace the outline of your foot with a pen.
Step3
Look at the imprint left by the arch of your foot. If you have flat feet, you're probably an over-pronater. A medium arch indicates neutral pronation, and a high arch says supination (under-pronation).
Step4
Go to a specialty running or sports store late in the day or after a run.
Step5
Wear the socks you normally wear when you run, and bring in your old running shoes if possible. A good running-shoe salesperson can tell a lot by the wear of your old shoes, including pronation.
Step6
Get both feet measured by a salesperson. Choose shoes that fit the larger foot.
Step7
Talk to the salesperson about the terrain you run on, the mileage you cover, and your pronation.
Step8
Try on the shoes.
Step9
Stand up. Press your thumb into the top of the shoe, just above your longest toe. Your thumb should fit between the end of your toe and the end of the shoe.
Step10
Wiggle your toes. If you can't wiggle with ease, the toe box is too small.
Step11
Feel the arch bump of the shoe. It should hit slightly toward the rear of your arch.
Step12
Make sure your heel fits snugly and does not slide up and down as you walk or run.
Step13
Go for a test jog or walk around the store.

Tips & Warnings

  • Talk to a knowledgeable salesperson when selecting your shoes and try on more than one pair.
  • Try shoes one-half or one size larger than your street shoes.
  • Over-pronaters need shoes with motion control and a straight sole.
  • Neutral pronaters need shoes with stability and a semi-curved sole.
  • Under-pronaters need shoes with extra cushioning and a curved sole.
  • Don't judge a shoe by its price tag.
  • For best performance, wear your running shoes for running only. Replace them when needed - don't resole them.
  • Keep your shoes as dry as possible. Air-dry them after every use.
  • Improperly fitted shoes can lead to injury and pain.
  • Run short distances in your new shoes before attempting a long run.

Comments

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CPlatt said

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on 1/25/2008 which type is pronating if you roll on the outside of your foot? i have terrible problems with my arches aching... someone told me more heel support will fix the issue. any tips?

cockko said

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on 2/26/2007 STOP WALKING ON YOUR PANTS

www.pantsfix.com TROUSERS SOLUTION

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eHow Article:  How to Choose Running Shoes

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