How to Buy Running Shoes For Big Runners

Selecting a pair of running shoes is very confusing.

To prevent an injury, runners need a stretch, warm-up and cool-down, but many are unaware that obtaining proper running shoes can also prevent injuries. Matching your foot biomechanics with a particular shoe brand and model is the biggest challenge, and making a selection requires examining different variables. If you are a large runner, you need to decide where to purchase sneakers, and what kinds of features are necessary to assist in your running goals.

Instructions

1. Purchase sneakers at specialty running stores that have a large selection of brands. The feet expands later in the day, so go in the late afternoon. The salesperson should ask you about your running history, training regime, and previous injuries. Have your foot examined and measured to determine the type of arch you have.

2. Evaluate how your foot pushes off. Choose cushioned shoes with shock absorption and a soft mid sole. If your foot rolls inward significantly when running, this is known as over pronation. Over pronation runners use the two big toes, and choose sneakers that emphasize motion control with a firm mid sole. These type of sneakers are heavy, durable, and the most expensive. Normal pronation runners use all toes evenly, so if this applies to you, choose sneakers with a mix of shock absorption, motion control, flexibility, durable and a multidensity mid sole.

3. Choose three to four pairs of sneakers. Put on both sides, stand up, and wiggle your toes. Walk around and run in each pair, your heel should stay in place. Choose a pair that cater to a large foot.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy new sneakers after running 400 miles or one year because shoes lose up to 80 percent shock absorption.

• Go elsewhere, if a salesperson doesn't know much about pronation and arch.

• Running sneakers start at about $70 to $80, and can become more expensive as it caters to your pronation.

• Some salespeople can identify a lot based on evaluating old sneakers, so bring them with you.

• If the arch isn't supported, buy new sneakers.

• Daily runners should use two sets of running sneakers and on alternate days.

• You need to try the sneakers on, so don't purchase them online.

• Ignore shoe recommendations from friends, everyone runs differently and has a specific type of arch.

• Shop for running need and not for style.

• Cross training or aerobic shoes are not for running or vice versa.

• Purchase shoes that allow insole replacements.

• The shoes should feel good in the store, you shouldn't have to break them in.

• Wear running shoes for running only.

• Hand wash sneakers and avoid getting them wet in the rain.

References

• Harvard University Biomechanics of Foot Strikes : Modern Running Shoes & Heel Striking
• Dayton School District: How to Pick Out Running Shoes
• University of Pennsylvania: Shoe Tips
• University of Georgia; How to Choose the Best Running Shoe; Dr. Rieber; 2006 
• Ohio State University: Runners - Your Shoes May Be Injuring You!
• Epodiatry: Running Shoes

Resources

• University of North Florida: Reduce Your Risk of Running Injuries