If you are in the market for a new pair of running shoes, it helps to consider essential factors that will affect your choice of footwear. After all, the key to finding the proper footwear is to make sure that it suits your feet perfectly. So, check out this guide on how to find the right running shoes for your unique needs, and follow these practical tips to boost your chances of buying the perfect pair for you.
Learn More about Your Foot Type
Initially, it would be best if you made it a point to determine your foot size before you decide to buy any stylish running shoe you can find in the market. The best way to identify the accurate size of your foot is by using a tool such as a Brannock device. That can measure width & length, including the distance from your toes to the ball of your foot.
After you have measured your size, it is ideal to try on the shoe of your choice to make sure how well it suits you. Being aware of the shoe’s authentic feel and good fit can ensure your comfort and satisfaction with the footwear. If possible, you may want to buy shoes that are a half-size bigger or smaller depending on how they feel on your feet.
The arch shape also has an impact on your decision to buy running shoes. Keep in mind that as you leave the shower or step out of the pool, you can check your arch type by simply observing your footprint. Likewise, the mark you go on the cement or bath mat when your feet are wet can give you an idea about your arch type. This is a significant feature that will impact how your feet move each time you run or walk.
Concerns about Pronation
The shape of your foot has a direct link to the way it moves with each stride you make. In most cases, the heel hits the ground first when you take a step. The heel also rolls inward slightly, and the flattening of the arch follows it as it cushions the impact. Then, your feet will move to the outside and becomes a little stiff to produce a somewhat springboard that will propel the next step you make.
Pronation refers to the inward rolling of your foot, which is then followed by a strike on your heels. You can expect less impact or pressure on your joints and knees for those who have primary or neutral pronation. Thus, those who have this type of pronation will experience fewer chances for injury when they run. They can also get away with regular kinds of running shoes available in the market.
On the other hand, overpronators will require special shoes that offer more excellent stability, support, and motion control. Overpronation occurs when your feet roll inward excessively whenever you walk or run. Most runners who suffer from overpronation are at risk of injuries and pains on the knees and heels. In mind, wearing shoes that suit them ideally is essential to enhance their speed while securing their comfort and safety as they run.
There is another issue that some people encounter during running, which is called supination. Another term for supination is underpronation, which refers to the outward rolling of your feet when you walk or run. For under pronators, they are prone to experiencing minimal impact whenever their feet touch the ground. Although it is rare for runners to underpronate, those who suffer from this condition should look for shoes that offer superb flexibility and cushioning to keep them stable with every move.
Essential Qualities of Running Shoes to Look For
As you search for good quality running shoes for your needs, make sure you consider not only your foot type, pronation, and size of your feet. It is also essential to consider the kind of sport or physical activity you are performing since this significantly affects your comfort while wearing the shoe.
For runners who require minimum support on the medial arch and maximum cushioning on the midsole, it may be best to look for cushioned shoes that will meet their needs. This type of footwear is ideal for individuals who are not overpronators, forefoot, or midfoot strikers. In most instances, people who are more comfortable in cushioned shoes have either high or moderate arches of the foot.
As for people who suffer from moderate to severe overpronation, wearing motion control shoes is their best bet. This type of footwear is perfect since it provides a significant amount of control on the rear part of their foot while ensuring superior support on their foot’s arch or medial side. According to experts, shoes that offer excellent motion control are great for runners on the heavy side since the footwear provides more significant support. These people may also be flat-footed or with low arches.
When you look for well-balanced and lightweight footwear for your performance training, you should do so to enhance your speed and comfort. These shoes are excellent for regular training and speed work, and they are great for people looking to train in these shoes. In addition, overpronators can also race or train while wearing these well-balanced shoes.
For runners with a somewhat efficient stride (not overpronators or under pronators), racing shoes may be a solid option. These shoes are also ideal for anyone who does not have any severe injuries or medical conditions. In addition, racing shoes are perfect when they wish to have lightweight and speedy shoes suitable for racing competitions. However, some runners rely on regular training or performance training shoes when they participate in races.
If you have been diagnosed to experience moderate or mild overpronation, you can do away with stable shoes with good cushioning on the midsole. You will appreciate this type of footwear as it can give you the proper support to keep every step you make as stable as possible.
Trail shoes are excellent choices when you commonly run off-road or in rugged areas. These shoes come with exceptional outsole traction, as well as water-resistant features that will enhance your comfort and speed. You can even find trail shoes that provide more excellent stability as these have low-to-the-ground qualities for running on rough trails.
Bottom Line
These are only a few tips to consider when shopping for the right pair of running shoes. Make it a point to apply these techniques and guidelines to help you find the most delicate pair of footwear for your comfort and satisfaction.