Picking the Right Running Shoe
Picking the Right Running Shoe
One of the benefits of running is you don’t need anything but a pair of running shoes. The kind of running shoe you wear is very important and should take several things into consideration when selected the perfect shoe. I have heard many times that people pick a shoe that is cute or stylish yet find out quickly the cute ones aren’t always the best support and comfort for your running needs. Your feet hold your body weight and when you are running, they take on extra pressure and weight. Misalignment starting in your feet, means your whole body is most likely misaligned as well. Improper shoes will eventually result in injury, so take the time to select something that works for you. Pick the right sole for your body and running goals, and then pick the stylish pattern you like best in ‘that’ shoe.
1. The first recommendation is to go to a running store that has people trained to help people select the right shoe. If you go to a true running specialty store, they will personally fit you for a shoe by having you run barefoot and determine how your gait is during your movement. Gait is your manner of walking or running. How your foot places with each step. Do your ankles turn in? Do your ankles turn out? Do you run heel to toe? Finding out your gait will help determine if you need a more cushiony shoe or one with more support. You can also help determine this by looking at a pair of older shoes you own, check out the sole to see where it is most worn out. If you notice the cushion at the heel is extremely worn down, that is a sign to find a shoe with extra cushioning. If it is more run down on one side, you can use that to determine your gait and adjust your preference for support of shoe accordingly.
2. The next thing to determine is how often you plan to run per month. Are you training for a race? Do you to run daily, every other day, 2 times a week, etc? Will you be running outdoors, concrete or trails, on a treadmill? Are you looking to enhance your speed, want to feel like you are floating along on your run, or do you like to feel the road with each step? Will you be using these shoes for anything other than running? Ask yourself those key questions and the investment for a better, longer lasting shoe, will be more the greater the distance you plan to run.
If you plan to use the shoe for more than just running, you may want to consider a cross training shoe that will provide cushion and support for both heel-to-toe movement and side-to-side movement. If you like a plush running shoe but want to gain speed and/or distance, just make sure to find a cushion that isn’t too heavy.
3. It is also extremely important to consider any previous injuries you may have, or areas of discomfort you have either while running or in everyday movements. For instance, if you have knee problems, search for a very comfortable and sturdy shoe to lower your risk of further injuring your knees.
4. Make sure you have the correct fitting. When trying on the shoe, most likely you haven’t just been on a run. Your feet do sweat during a run and will swell, so make sure to accommodate more room in the toe area for some swelling. There can be nothing more bothersome than crowded toes during a long run, trust me on that! 😊
5. Take the proper time to break your shoes in. If you are purchasing a shoe for a race, wear them for several runs before the race. My favorite style of running shoe always gives me problems at the ankle for the first 5 runs and then they fit me like a glove! Give them time to work for you.
With shoes being the only equipment you need for running, choose wisely, but have fun!! And, I often get asked, when is it time to retire your shoe? The quick answer is when you feel like the time is right or if the sole starts to crack and/or the cushioning becomes worn down. The general rule of thumb is to replace your shoes every 300-500 miles.
Good Luck! And, happy running!!