It’s undeniable that colorful running shoes can inspire anyone to attempt a long-distance run. However, “just cool” sneakers won’t take you that far if they’re uncomfortable. Or, perhaps your running shoes can provide you the comfort and support you needed, but they’re already well-worn which may cause you lower-back or foot pain.
Hence, you will need a new, and reliable pair of running shoes. But with too many options available in the market, different brands, different designs, and different cushioning systems, choosing a pair becomes difficult.
Fortunately, there are handy tips from the experts that you can use to help you pick the right pair of running shoes. Check them out!
Determine Your Running Mileage
Your running mileage is a critical factor in finding the right pair of shoes. Thus, you must assess how much do you run.
The higher the distance, the more cushioning you will need to protect your foot from the repeated impact. Hence, you will need a pair with thick and stable cushioning system. If you’re preparing for a marathon, you will need a pair with sufficient flexibility and stability.
Think of the Terrain
Imagine the terrain you frequently run on. If you want to cut minutes from your 5K time, lightweight road shoes will help. On the other hand, if you’re tracking rough surfaces, you should have a pair of trainers that are more protective and durable.
Also, if you’re running on different surfaces, you will need to decide whether you have to pick one pair of hybrid shoes to manage different terrains, or a dedicated pair to wear when running in smooth roads and another pair to wear in your off-road runs.
Opt for Stability
The shape of your arch and the way your feet roll into each step are good pointers of what type of support you may need. The act of moving inward is known as pronation. Some people usually pronate to a smaller degree, but if you roll your foot too much, then you may get the advantage from a stabilizing shoe which supports your stride.
In detail, picking a stabilizing shoe is a wise choice since it balances your pace while keeping your lower body well aligned. Further, you can get the stability that you want by determining the type of arch you have.
- Flat feet have low or invisible arches. This type of feet leave imprints that are almost whole, resembling much like the entire feet. Also, flat feet are commonly more flexible and more likely to overpronate. This extra motion can cause various types of overuse injuries.
- Standard feet have the average size of an arch. A normal foot creates an imprint that shows only the forefoot and the heels connected by a full band. Runners who have this type of feet have a flexible arch.
- The feet have high arches when the forefoot and the heel connect in a narrow band. High-arched feet are stiffer and don’t usually pronate enough to absorb shock efficiently. Thus, runners with high arches typically require shoes with added cushioning.
Consider Waterproof Feature
A shoe that casts off water is perfect for wet, muddy trails, cold settings and when traveling through wet brush or grass.
However, they can feel sweaty if you’re wearing them in hotter conditions and its membrane provides an extra layer to the top, making them a bit heavier compared to non-waterproof shoes. To keep their function, it’s a smart choice to refine your waterproof shoes regularly, so its pores don’t get clogged with dirt and dust.
Go For Minimal
Our arches need support at the ends particularly the ball, heels, and toes in steady and firm contact. It helps balance and stability in mid-stance and provides you proper posture. Thus, a shoe should minimize toe-spring or upward curve in toes, which puts toes in extension and sometimes creates deformations such as hammer toes.
Choose For Comfort
Above all, choose for your comfort. The shoe should not crease, or pinch on your foot in any way, or cause pains and aches in your leg rather than push you around. Further, you should consider what your body is saying, and don’t hesitate to take advantage of the return policies the shoe stores now have.
Takeaway
Wearing the right shoes for running can make a significant difference regarding performance as well as long-term health. Probably you’re already excited to try on the latest shoes for running, but first, you must apply those concepts mentioned earlier before you go shopping.
For more fun and comfort and to prevent foot pain, it’s essential to have those appropriate running shoes which are available on Deal Wiki and other stores online.