Choosing The Right Running Shoes

Are you buying a new pair of running shoes? Is your old pair all worn-out and needs to replaced? These days, searching for the right pair can be a hassle. Back in the day, things were quite simpler. When we were kids, we had shoes that went with everything: from cycling to climbing trees and from running to soccer.

Now there are special sports shoes for every possible activity and countless varieties to choose from. So how do you know which running shoes are right for you?

Check out the most basic expert advice on what to keep in mind when buying a new pair.

Think about what type of athlete are you

The best first step in finding the right pair of shoes for running is to know exactly how you will use them. Are you a jogging type of athlete, or do you like fast pace running or even sprinting? Do you run 2-3 km at a time or 8-10 km? Do you run on the asphalt, on tartan, or on a gym treadmill? The so called treaded sole shoes are more suitable for rough terrain such as dirt or even cross country treks. Shoes with flatter soles are more suitable for flat terrain or running on the treadmill.

Identify your running style

It is important to identify the part of the shoe that first comes into contact with the ground when you are running. Are you a runner who touches the heel first? Are you actually touching the outside of the tread? Or do you push more with the front part of your foot (just behind the toes)? Once you understand this, choose those athletic shoes that have an extra lining and/or “cushion” at that point.

Function over fashion

Sometimes, just like with books, you shouldn’t judge shoes by the their appearance. While this is a major factor most of the time, looks can be deceiving. For instance, people tend to prefer a shoe that is satisfying and pleasing to their aesthetic to a shoe that provides better cushioning or is built from better materials. Keep this in mind, because you might end up with a cool looking pair of shoes that you can’t use.-

Types of Running Shoes

Finally, these are the basic types of running shoes followed by a quick description so you can choose according to your needs.

Neutral shoes: These are suitable for most runners, as they are neutral and can work for runners that mildly pronate. They are also suitable for runners that tend to roll their foot outwards. They’re often equipped with shock absorption technologies and some arch support. Shoes that are equipped with upper cushioning provide up to 50% of additional cushioning more than ordinary shoes.

Stability shoes: They provide some extra arch support due to their reinforced side of midsole. These are prefered by runners that tend to overpronate when running and that is why they are reinforced in the arch area.

Motion control shoes: These shoes are intended to be worn by runners that heavily overpronate. With their stiffer heels and straight last design, they are best for runners that need to minimize the effects of overpronated running.

Barefoot shoes: While many runners like the feeling of running bare-foot, you should considered the main negative aspect of this choice. That would be the minimal protection from the ground. With these shoes, you are definitely going to feel every small rock that you might step onto. They usually have no cushion in the heel whatsoever and the layer between the shoe and the ground does not exceed 4mm. They also have zero drop from heel to toe

Minimalist shoes: Built with the bare minimum of materials, these shoes are superlight. They have little to no arch support and the heel drop of 4-8mm is ideal for a natural running style. The main negative aspect of these shoes is that they are quick to wear out.

Last thing to remember

Remember, always try your shoes on before making your purchase. This doesn’t just mean to put them on, but try, as much as possible, to imitate the type of movements you’ll have while wearing them. But that’s not all! If you wear any special orthotics or footbeds, bring them along with you when you go shopping.

Hopefully these tips might give you some insight. We wish you a lot of success on your running adventures!