The Right Running Shoe For You

The Right Running Shoe For You

Many individuals walk into an athletic equipment store and feel incredibly overwhelmed by the dozens of different types of running shoes to choose from. The average shopper takes approximately 10-15 seconds to spot the shoe they like based on color or design before they pick it up. Shortly after admiring their selection, they turn the shoe over to discover a $70-100 price. Many shoppers put the shoe back on the display and decide that they will stick with their old running shoes for just a few more weeks. Unfortunately, not replacing your running shoes regularly can lead to injury and discomfort. Here are some helpful tips for when and how to replace your running shoes.

• Experts suggest you should replace your running shoes after six months or 500 miles of wear and tear.
• When you go to purchase a new pair of running shoes, bring your old pair. This can help a sales associate to analyze your running patterns based on the wear of your shoe.
• You should plan on trying on at least six pairs of shoes to get a sufficient variety for comparison.
• When it comes to selecting your shoe, comfort is the most important criteria. Do you enjoy squishy padding or minimal support? Is your shoes too tight or loose? Can you wiggle your toes? Trust your judgement to select a pair that you want to spend a significant amount of time in.
• Try to shop for your running shoes towards the end of the day. Your feet naturally swell as the day goes on, and this can help you get the most accurate representation of your true size of your foot.
• Choose a shoe based on the type of activity you engage in (jogging, running, long-distance, etc.) and your body type. A typical trainer will work for most people.
• As you age, the size of your foot can change. Before you select multiple shoes in the same size, ask a sales associate to measure your foot. They can then help you select shoes based on your size and the brand, because many brands vary in their size accuracy.

Overall, you should not try to manipulate the way your body moves naturally with your running shoe selection. If your foot naturally pronates or supinates when you run, select a shoe that feels comfortable with this movement, because attempting to combat this pattern will put you at a greater risk of injury. Happy shopping, and happy running!

Sources: New York Times, Competitor, WebMD, Fix Body Group

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