Buying New Running Shoes?

If you run regularly, it is essential that you have good running shoes.  Whereas general purpose trainers are fine for the gym or for short runs on the treadmill, if you plan to get outside and run, you need a good quality pair of running shoes.

Fortunately for anyone buying new running shoes, there are lots of great shoes to choose from, many at prices that won’t break the bank.  To be sure you get the shoes that are right for you, it is best to go to a specialist sports shop, rather than choosing a pair at your local supermarket!  In addition, keep the following in mind when choosing running shoes:

• Choose the best time to shop! It is recommended that you do any shoe shopping in the afternoon.  Why?  Because your feet swell and get slightly larger during the day!  Waiting until the afternoon to go shoe shopping makes sure that your feet are at their largest, and that you get the right fit.

• Take your socks with you:  Different types of socks will fit your feet differently, have different layers of thickness, etc.  You need to choose comfortable synthetic socks designed for running (cotton socks retain moisture and can cause blisters) and be sure to wear them when trying on running shoes.  That way the fit you get in the shop will be the one you get when you get the shoes home.

• Make sure you have room in your toes:  Running pushes your feet towards the front of the shoe – make sure that you have around 1/4" to 1/2" between your big toe and the front of the shoe.

• Try all shoes on:  Shoes sizes differ between brands, so be sure to try shoes on before purchasing them, even if you think you know your size.

• Test run the shoes:  If you go to a dedicated sports or running shop, you will often find that they have a treadmill or even a short running track – shoes will fit you differently when running to when you are just standing around or walking, so to get the best fit, try to do some running in your new shoes.

• Take your old shoes with you:  If you already have a pair of running shoes that you are replacing, take them to the shop with you.  This will give the experts in the shop the opportunity to see the wear and tear of the shoe – for example, is there more wear on the inside or the outside of the foot?  Knowing this will help them to choose the right shoe for you.

Finally, be aware that companies like to change their range regularly, so even if you have a type of shoe you like, you need to try the new version on as it may fit differently.