Running shoes are the most important piece of equipment when it comes to running and you need to make sure the shoe you purchase is perfect for you. When you purchase a running shoe there are a few things you must consider. If you want a shoe that fits perfectly you will need to find a shoe that compliments your personal running style and foot shape.
Test Potential Running Shoes
If you are a runner, you can understand how important your running shoes are and how having the proper shoe can make all the difference when it comes to running. When it comes to purchasing a shoe there are thousands of different brands and styles to select from and it can be hard to narrow down your choice. That is why I always recommend testing your shoes before purchasing them. Ideally, you would want to test your shoes while running before buying them, but sometimes that is not possible as retail stores will not let you leave with them. However, you can test out running shoes in stores by putting them on and walking around for a bit. This will allow you to get a good feel for the shoe and help you determine if it is the perfect shoe for you.
Ask an Expert
If you really want to get some next-level advice, I would suggest speaking to a sports therapist, foot doctor, or chiropractor as they will be able to help determine what shoes will best fit your foot. A sports therapist will be able to tell you what shape your foot is. If you have had trouble finding a shoe that fits perfectly it may be due to the shape of your foot. If you have flat feet and use improper shoe it can decrease your running ability by damaging your leg muscles and giving your body an unnatural form. The knowledgeable staff at Find My Footwear estimates that 90% of people with flat feet experience having an inward turning of their feet while they run. This is very bad and can lead to poor running form and safety concerns. That is why if you have a flat foot they recommend getting a shoe that has good arch support as it will promote healthy foot form. Speaking to an expert may be the secret to finding your perfect fitting shoe.
Think About Your Running Style
You will want to make sure you purchase the right type of running shoe that corresponds to the type of running you do. If you consider these factors next time you go shoe shopping, you will be able to help narrow down your shoe choices and help find the perfect shoe for you. The running shoes that are designed for use in the gym are one of the most common types of runners out there. These shoes are ideal for people who either run at the gym or on paved roads and concrete sidewalks. These shoes offer a good amount of padding in order to protect your feet from getting sore from running on hard surfaces. If you do a lot of running outdoors you will need to buy a shoe that has been designed for outdoor running. Often times these shoes will offer a little more ankle support and they will also be durable to withstand the outdoor elements.
Ask your Friends
If you are looking for the perfect shoe you should consider asking your friends what they like about theirs. Asking your friends about their shoes can provide you with valuable insight into what you want and do not want from a shoe. This allows you to find out what they like about their shoes and what they do not like about it. If you are interested in your friend’s shoe you could always ask to try it on and take it for a test run, this way you will truly know if your friend’s shoe is right for you.
Finding the perfect running shoe for you can be difficult. There are thousands of different shoes on the market and it can be hard to narrow down what shoes will give you the best results in terms of performance and safety. When you are finding the perfect shoe for you, make sure you test out your shoes first by walking around in them. If you have a flat foot you will want to purchase a shoe that has good arch support. Also, make sure you consider what kind of running you will be doing as determining this will help you pick what kind of running shoe will best suit your needs. It is also important to remember that it does not hurt speaking to an expert as they can help you select the proper shoe for you.
Photo Credit: Seitu Oronde.
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