subject: Buying The Right Training Shoes [print this page] There are five basic types and what you buy depends upon your foot type and specific training needs. Motion-control footwear is the most rigid, durable, control-oriented running shoes that limit an inward roll.
Buy these if your feet tend to roll inward while you jog. These are also good if you wear orthotics and want stability, or you have flat feet.
Stability footwear offers a good blend of cushioning, support, and durability. You should get these if you are of average weight, need more stability, and do not have any severe inward or outward roll.
Cushioned footwear offers the most cushion with the least amount of support. People who buy these should have no roll, have a rigid foot, and do not need any extra support.
Lightweight training footwear is the lightest of the training shoes, and is designed for fast-paced training or racing. Purchase these if you have no motion control issues like to jog fast.
Trail footwear offers the best traction, with stability, and durability. These are for running off-road or in inclement weather. They provide extra traction, more durable uppers, and a thicker sole.
Exercising in worn-out kicks can cause injuries so you should start shopping early or buy two pairs at a time, so you always have a spare. If you plan ahead, you can buy your next pair before your old pair even wears out.
It is recommended that you replace running shoes every 350 to 550 miles depending on your running style, body weight, and the surface you jog on. Lighter runners can get closer to the upper end of the recommendation while heavier runners are harder on kicks and should consider replacements earlier.
Alternating footwear every other workout gives your feet and your shoes a break. Also, try to use your running kicks only for your workouts so they can last much longer.
When actually purchasing the footwear, make sure you measure your foot while standing. You should also try on both shoes with thick athletic socks.
Feet are rarely the exact same size, so when trying on shoes, make sure you buy for your larger foot, not the smaller one. Allow a fingertip's width between the tip of the shoe and your big toe.
Choose footwear that is comfortable immediately; do not assume that you will break them in later. If they hurt in the store, do not buy them.
Know that price is not necessarily an indication of quality, so do not be afraid to buy moderately priced footwear. Make sure the footwear matches your foot type and running style.
After purchasing a new pair of kicks, wear them around the house before using them on short jogs. Do not do a long jog in new kicks because you will probably be and pain and may get blisters.
Start out with a short jog and stop if you have any hot spots, which are a warning sign that a blister is on the way. Consider having an evaluation by a doctor, physical therapist, or podiatrist to learn your type.
You can also visit a local athletic store and talk with the running experts. Many stores now offer foot type analysis where you jog across a computerized surface or jog on a treadmill while they video tape your foot motion.
To determine your type at home, you can take a look at the soles of your current running shoes. The location of the wear can tell you if you land on the heels, roll in or out or have a neutral foot strike.
You can also tell your foot type by placing your kicks on a flat surface and looking at them from behind. If the wear is on the inside of the heels, you likely need more stability to keep from rolling inward as you jog.
If the wear is on the outside of the heels, you may roll to the outside. This is even more likely if you have high arches.
