We Know: How to Buy Running Shoes

Does it matter what kind of running shoes you buy?

In the craze to get fit, a person is more likely to lose a considerable amount of money without tangible results. Good running shoes are an exception to this. Great technological and research breakthroughs have been made in running shoes that make injury less likely and the ability to excel that much easier.

What steps should you take before walking into the store?

  • Shop in the afternoon. Feet actually grow during the day and during running as well.
  • Bring an old pair of shoes with you. The wear of your shoes will be an important tip to the sales clerk on what type of shoes will best serve your needs.
  • Conduct Internet and print magazine research. There are dozens of great running resources that have monthly columns devoted to rating and pricing shoes.

What is the most important knowledge to have when shopping for running shoes?

There is one element that will be the biggest part of the decision making process when you buy a shoe and that is knowing whether your foot is pronated, supinated or neutral.

  • A pronated foot rolls inwards. Over-pronated feet tend towards a high degree of movement that is helped by motion control features placed in the shoe. In addition, a more prominent anti-pronation support in the mid sole is a must for runners with this condition. Runners with pronated feet tend to wear out their shoes on the inner front side first.
  • A suppinated foot rolls outwards and has a higher than normal arch. Supplanted feet are less flexible than pronated feet and thus less able to absorb shock.
  • Neutral feet are neither suppliant or pronated, and the shoe tends to wear out more evenly.

What should you test for while you are in the store?

  • Always make sure your shoe is not too tight. Keep one thumb's length between from the tip of your big toe to the inside of the shoe. Also be sure to keep space between the length of your foot and the inner shoe. The heal should always fit snugly.
  • Try on more than one pair and more than one brand. Different brands and makes tend to stress different performance functions and design characteristics.
  • Orthotics (or external cushions supports bought afterwards) should never be needed for a good running shoe. Sufficient cushioning should already be part of the shoe design.
  • Running shoes should be comfortable the first time you put them on. You should never have to `break them in'.
  • A good shoe source should let you take a test run.

How can you save money when buying running shoes?

As noted in this article, buying the right pair of running shoes is extremely important from both a safety and performance angle. As in most consumer endeavors, you tend to get what you pay for in the world of running. However, there are tips for buying shoes that will help you keep some money in the bank. Shoe companies tend to heavily market and stock their newest hottest brands. Finding a slightly dated, high-end running shoe is fairly easy and may save you a quite a bit as older stock is discounted in favor of newer models that replace it. Similarly, deals may be found on shoes that have imperfections or shoes with unfortunate color combinations that proved unpopular with the buying public. Your feet may look a little garish as you run your 10K, but there is never a need to sacrifice comfort and performance. And you can always save those extra pesos for your next purchase.



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