How to Choose Athletic Shoes

It is getting harder and harder to find just the right sneakers for a specific activity. If one doesn't know a little bit about what he is shopping for, he might make a wrong choice and end up with aching feet and throbbing knees.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Most athletic shoes are sport specific. This means that if you are a runner, you need to buy running shoes that are designed specifically for flexion of the ankle. To participate in an aerobic dance or step class wearing running shoes could do some serious damage to your knees. To safely participate in those activities you would need to buy a studio shoe or a cross trainer, which are made for both lateral and forward/backward movements. However, if you are playing basketball, volleyball, tennis, or any other court sport, you would want to purchase a shoe to maximize speed and agility. On the other hand, take these same shoes to the soccer or baseball field and you could be in for a major fall.

2. When purchasing athletic shoes, don't be shy about asking the sales associated what type of shoe it is. In sporting goods stores, most sales people are knowledgeable about the shoes the store sells. The shoes should feel great on your feet the minute you get them laced up. You should never have to break in a new pair of shoes before you actually wear them for the activity. The exception to the rule is that you wouldn't want to wear a brand new pair of shoes to run a marathon, or another endurance activity, or the result could be blisters.

3. Something else to consider is the brand name. Just because a shoe is endorsed by a major league star doesn't mean that it is the right one for your foot. Try on different brands and see which one feels best to you. A sneaker shouldn't be quite so roomy as a dress shoe because you don't want your foot to slide around in it as you move through your workout or activity, putting you at risk for injury.

4. Orthopedic issues are a concern. Some people have high arches, others flat feet. Some are pigeon toed, others knock-kneed. An evaluation of your biomechanics by a specialist can prevent injuries and assist you in making the correct shoe choice.

Tips & Warnings

• Selecting a shoe that fits well and wears well is a great investment. It pays to spend a little more for a shoe that performs. Generally, a shoe will endure about 3 to 4 months of regular exercise. I find that rotating among 2 to 3 pairs of sneakers extends the life of each. An athletic shoe will lose cushioning and support long before it looks worn. If your knees begin to hurt, check your shoes first and if that doesn't remedy the problem, see a physician.

Resources

• http;//www.shoes4fitness.com

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[RFerriANP]

on 12/3/2008 Excellent! As a personal trainer, medical practitioner, and all around "jock" I see the clinical DAMAGE from "cheaping out" on the proper athletic foot wear daily. Not all shoes were created for all sports. So called "cross-trainers" may simply work best for weight lift and a light run on a treadmill but usually DO NOT provide the overall support their name implies for all sports or exercise. Buy your feet wear wisely (which does not mean expensively) and - depending on your workout(s) intensity and frequency do not presume that foot gear last forever. Have a certified trainer examine your needs, the wear of yours shoes, and educate you the need for shoe rotation and replacement.