How to Pick the Best Running Shoes
Whether you want to run for fun or you are going to train for a marathon, good running shoes will provide the right foundation for your whole body. Wearing the perfect shoes for your feet can also help prevent injuries when running. The right pair of shoes will perfectly fit well to your feet while you run.
While no pair of running shoes perfectly fit for everyone, these tips can help you find the right running shoes for you.
What Kind of Surface Are You Running On?
If you are going to run on pavements, then you would need to pick road shoes. Road shoes have more cushioning compared to trail shoes or light-weight race shoes. These can minimize your risk of injury by providing shock absorption.
But if running through soft muddy trails is more of your thing, then buying trail shoes is the perfect choice. The deep tread of trail shoes can provide better ankle support and better grip. This feature is essential for running on an uneven surface. However, these shoes will not be comfortable on pavements because the studs will press into the soles of your feet, making them wear out quickly.
And if you are planning to do a little of both, you should buy a pair of hybrid running shoes. This type of shoe will work well on both surface and different trail conditions with the right balance of cushioning and grip.
Type of Socks
It might sound a little silly, but the thickness of socks can make a massive difference to the feel and fit of your shoe. We suggest you wear the socks you plan to run in when you shop for shoes.
An excellent technical running sock is designed with an additional arch for support and extra padding on the heel for better protection.
You might want to avoid wearing cotton socks while running because they absorb moisture, which adds to the heat and friction. They can also cause calluses, hot spots, and blisters.
Make sure that your socks are higher than the back part of your shoes, or else they will slip down while running that can cause hot spots on the back of your heel.
How Far Are You Going to Run?
Running for a marathon requires a different running shoe style, while running long-distance would require more cushioning. Running on more cushioned shoes for a long distance would be more comfortable.
Find the Right Fit
Some running shoes might look like any other sneakers, but they are made with specialized technology to help you run better. Unlike sneakers, running shoes are created to prevent injuries from repetitive motion by providing the right cushioning to help with shock absorption.
But the main factor you need to consider when choosing a running shoe is how it fits your feet. If your shoes do not fit right, your running experience would be painful, and it could also lead to injury.
Here are some tips on making sure that the running shoes you pick will fit perfectly.
- Try on shoes at night because feet tend to swell while you walk all throughout the day.
- Leave a thumb's width allowance in front of your toe.
- Do not pinch the shoes or slide the shoes while trying them on.
- Find the correct width.
Now that we have discussed the different tips on choosing the right running shoes, let's talk about the different running shoes available.
Cushioned Running Shoes: Cushioning is essential for every runner who underpronate. The rolling motion feature can help your foot absorb the shock while you run.
Stability Running Shoes: This type of running shoe can provide cushioning, durability, and medial support. They are styled to prevent excess motion of your ankle and foot without limiting movement as much.
Light-weight Running Shoes: Light-weight running shoes are thin and lighter, making them more flexible shoes. These shoes are very light and have flexible cushioning. They can also lessen the pain after running, and they are extremely comfortable.
Trail Running Shoes: This type of running shoe has a unique set of features designed to help you run on different kinds of terrain. One of the main features you need to find in a good trail running shoe is its grip.
