How To Choose Running Shoes

Nothing ruins a workout routine faster than ill-fitting shoes that lead to injury. When adding running to your routine, you will need to purchase the best running shoes for your feet and your goals. Follow these steps to choose running shoes.

1. Start with the shape of your foot. Everyone has different feet and the shape of your foot indicates the type of running shoes you will need. The easiest way to check your foot shape is to take a piece of plain paper. Wet the bottom of your feet then step onto the paper. The print is the part of your foot that meets the ground when you step, the more print, the lower your arches. Those with low arches will need to find firm and stable shoes. High arches will need cushioned and flexible shoes. The in-between foot will have an easier time finding a running shoe and should look for both stability and moderate cushioning.
2. Ignore the numbers. Depending on the shape and type of shoe your foot may range between two full sizes. Don't select a size 7 and then stick to it regardless of fit. Instead ignore the numbers and pay attention to fit.
3. Consider where you will run. If you are a road runner select shoes for durability and efficiency. Treadmill runners want to avoid slick bottomed shoes that increase the chances of slipping and accidents. Off-road runners need a more defined tread and should look for off-road shoes.
4. Give up brand loyalty until you find the right shoe. If you are brand loyal when it comes to shoes and clothes, give up this loyalty while shopping for the perfect running shoe. You might miss the best fit and shape. Once you find the right shoe then by all means stay loyal to that brand as long as they make the shoe you love.
5. Shop at the right time of day. When possible, try the shoes during the same time of day as you plan to run. For instance, if you are a morning runner, buy your running shoes in the morning. Your feet swell a little throughout the course of the day so if you are a morning runner who buys your shoes late in the day, you might find the shoe feels too loose when you run in the morning. If you run at different times of day then buy your shoes late in the day so they will never be too tight during a run.
6. Try on several. Running shoes are not the shoes you want to order online for the first time. Running shoes must be tried on and experimented with to find the best fit. Wear the socks you use when running to try on the shoes. Lace the shoes correctly. Wiggle your toes a bit when trying on the shoe to make sure there is enough room. Try shoes on both feet. Most people find that both feet are not identical in size so try the shoes on both feet. Then take a walk. Wearing the shoes walk the length of the store then back. Try leaning forward onto your toes to make sure there will be no pinching or chafing while you run. Now repeat these steps with several different running shoes until you find the best fit.

Choose the right running shoes for your feet before you get started on a new exercise routine. You will need to replace the shoes every six to nine months depending on use so get the right shoe that will fit and last.