Important Tips About Running Shoes
Whether you are an avid runner or one who simply takes a jog around the park a few times a week, a good running shoe is essential. Many different types and styles of running shoes line the shelves of athletic stores, making shopping for running shoes a daunting task. However, the wrong shoe can result in poor performance or even injury, so it's important to get the shoe that's right for you.
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Fit
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It is best to shop for shoes at the end of the day, when your foot is a bit swollen. Fee tend to swell during a run, so this is the optimum time to get the right fit. If at all possible, get your foot measured for the most accurate fit. Almost any shoe store has the proper tools to do this.
Arch
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Know your arch to get the best fit. The American Podiatric Medical Association lists the three general types of arches. Those with normal arches should choose a shoe for stability and cushion.
If you have a flat arch, you need support, so look for a shoe with cushion and motion control. High arches tend to have poor shock absorption, so need a flexible shoe with extra cushioning.
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Running Style
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Bring your current running shoe with you to determine your running style. Where the soles are worn down the most will tell you what kind of running shoe you need. If your tread is worn down at the toe, for example, look into purchasing a shoe with additional support at the top.
Try On
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When trying on running shoes, wear what you normally wear during a run. This way you will not be distracted by how the shoe looks with your attire and you can focus on the shoe. Remember to bring your running socks -- the thin ones available in most shoes stores will not give you an accurate feel for the shoe. If you wear insoles or prosthetics, bring those, too.
Set aside plenty of time to try on as many shoes as necessary to find the right fit. Some specialty shoes stores provide a treadmill for customers to test run potential shoes. If this is not an option, get comfortable with the idea of sprinting from one end of the store to the other.
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References
- Photo Credit marathon runner image by Photosani from Fotolia.com
