How to Pick the Best Running Shoes for You

 

You need to have the right pair of running shoes in order to run safely and efficiently. But picking the right running shoes can be a daunting task as there are so many to choose from. While finding the right pair of running shoes might seem like an easy task to most runners, in reality, there are a lot of factors that come into play when trying to find the right pair of running shoes for you.

Read on to learn some tips and considerations to keep in mind while you’re shopping around for your next pair of running shoes.

What Surface Are You Running On?

The type of surface you run on should be a big factor in determining what kind of running shoe you buy. If your running is mostly inside, then stability might be more important than speed. But if you’re doing a lot of trail running, traction could be more important than cushioning. Stability shoes are designed to provide greater support through the midsole to support the arch of the foot. Stability running shoes are a little stiffer and heavier when compared to other shoes. Traction shoes avoid slipping and provide a good grip on the ground.

Make sure you know exactly how and where you’ll use your shoes before buying them—if they’re not right for that particular environment, they could leave your body vulnerable to injury.

Think about How Long You'll Be Running

If you'll be running for more than 90 minutes, then you need a supportive shoe that has a lot of cushioning. However, if you'll be running for less than an hour at a time (perhaps getting in one morning run each week), then you should consider choosing shoes with less support. This is because people who run for short periods don’t have as much risk of injury from over- or under-pronation. Overpronation is when your foot rolls inwards and the outer edge of your heels hits the ground and underpronation has an abnormally high arch where the heel leans outward. 

Think About How You Run

If you’re shopping for running shoes, or just looking for information about your current pair, consider how you run. As a rule of thumb, runners are divided into three categories:

• Overpronators (those whose ankles collapse inward when they strike the ground and shoes for them are designed that they work by counteracting the tendency to excessively roll inward, offering more cushioning and better arch support.)
• Underpronators (those whose ankles turn outward when they strike, and their shoes are usually curved in shape without stability features)
• Neutral pronators (those who fall in between and their shoes are designed to stop the rate of pronation of the foot to help keep your foot neutral, which takes stress off the knees, the hips, and the lower back.)

Most running shoes are built with pronation control technologies that help stabilize your foot while reducing injury risk. However, if you’re unsure of which type of runner you are, speak with a knowledgeable salesperson before buying.

Have You Had Your Gait Analyzed?

If you’re serious about your running and know you have a specific problem (such as high arches or overpronation), then it’s best to get your gait analyzed. Your gait can be analyzed via video which shows your movement clearly. All Runners need stores provides free Gait analysis. It is recommended to do gait analysis before choosing the perfect shoe or you may end up choosing the wrong style shoe. If you don’t want to or can’t have your gait analyzed, at least tryout a few different styles of running shoes. 

Best practices for trying on shoes

When trying on a pair of running shoes, make sure you wear similar socks to those you would run in (usually no thicker than 1/4 inch). Then walk around a bit and try to jump up and down. That way, you can simulate natural motion while also checking for heel slippage or toe curling. You should feel comfortable from heel-to-toe as well as evenly balanced on each foot when walking around.

Know the key types of running shoe

Runners have many choices when it comes to buying running shoes, but most shoes fall into three major categories: motion control, stability and cushioning.

Motion control shoes are for runners with overpronation; these shoes usually feature a substantial heel-to-toe drop (the difference in height between your heel and toe when standing). Stability running shoes offer a balance of support and flexibility. And cushioning running shoes are for people who prefer a lightweight, minimal feel.

How Much Cushion Do You Want?

Before you hit up your local running store, you need to understand what cushioning is. The purpose of cushioning is to keep your feet happy while they pound away at the pavement. If you’re flat-footed or have fallen arches, then much more forgiving shoes with extra support are worth thinking about.

Final Thoughts

It’s no secret that running has become an incredibly popular activity in recent years. It doesn’t matter if you’re a casual runner or a hardcore marathoner—if you’re an active individual, there’s probably something about running that speaks to you.

All of these new runners have one issue that you may experience too. If you aren’t buying and wearing the right kind of shoes for your feet, then you may be one of the increasing number of runners who are injured every year.

That’s why it’s important that you follow what we’ve discussed in this article to help you pick the right running shoes. Check extra savings from Adidas, Reebok promotional codes from SneakQIK and buy your favourite shoes with savings. Also view ‘Top 100 codes’ from other brands to save on running clothing, footwear & accessories.