eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Choose the Best Pair of Women's Running Shoes

Member
By Kristie Leong M.D.
User-Submitted Article
(0 Ratings)

There is a dizzying array of women's running shoes
available these days which makes choosing the right pair a challenge for even the most knowledgeable athlete. Here are some tips for choosing the right women's running shoes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Understand Your Arch Type.

    It's important to understand if you have a high arch or a flat one since this may alter your running shoe selection. One way to determine the status of your arch is to wet one of your feet and step on a dry piece of paper. If you can see the imprint of your entire foot, you have a flat arch. If you can only see the forefoot and heel, your arch is high.

  2. Step 2

    Choose Your Shoe on The Basis of Your Arch Type.

    If you have a high arch, your feet are likely to roll outwards as they hit the ground, meaning you should choose a woman's running shoe with cushioned midsoles. If your arch is flat, your foot is more likely to roll inward when you hit the pavement, meaning you'll need a more rigid insole to keep you foot in line when you run.

  3. Step 3

    Understand How to Determine a Proper Fit

    A running shoe that fits properly should have at least a half inch of room beyond your toes. The shoe should fit snuggly but not so tight that you experience discomfort. It's helpful to wait until later in the day to try on running shoes when your feet are their largest due to swelling. Be sure to take along the same type of socks you use while running to wear while trying on running shoes.

  4. Step 4

    Buy Your Shoes From a Store That Specializes in Running Shoes.

    The advantage to choosing a woman's running shoe from a specialty store is that you can get expert advice on which shoes to select as well as have a chance to test the shoe while in the store. This may not be possible if you go to a discount store. When you test your chosen running shoes, jog around the store until you can determine how the shoe feels on your foot. Try on many pairs of shoes before making your final decision. Don't hesitate to ask the people who help you questions. Many of the salespeople in specialty sports shoe stores are quite knowledgeable in the art of choosing women's running shoes.

  5. Step 5

    Know When It's Time To Replace Your Old Running Shoes.

    If you run five days a week, you should aim for replacing your women's running shoes every four to five months. At this point, the cushion support of the shoe starts to break down and you may experience an increased risk of a running injury.

Tips & Warnings
  • Don't skimp on your choice of running shoe or you could end up paying dearly for it with a serious overuse injury.
Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Sports & Fitness Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

eHow Sports and Fitness
eHow_eHow Sports and Fitness