Choose the Best Shoe for Running
Walking into a running/walking or athletic store can be intimidating. There are so many types and brands of shoes to choose from, how do you know where to begin?
The following seven clues will help to take the mystery out of buying the best running and walking shoes tailored to your needs and goals.
Clue #1: Fit, Fit, Fit
Shoes that fit properly are worth their weight in gold. The shoes that are right for your feet will feel like slippers, allowing you to “float on pillows” as you walk and run.
Poorly fitting shoes can causing rubbing, bleeding, and blisters, which can stop you in your tracks because of pain and discomfort.
Take your time finding the best shoes for your feet, and use the following guidelines:
■ Find a shoe store that will measure your foot. Many people are surprised to learn that they are a half to one full size bigger or smaller than they thought.
■ Because your feet expand while you run or walk, it is best to shop late in the day when your feet are at their widest and longest in size.
■ Leave a thumb’s width of room above the toes and in front of the toes. The toes should be able to move freely.
An easy test is to bounce on the balls of your feet when trying on shoes; they should feel soft when you land, and your toes should move freely.
■ Heel stability is important. The heel should be securely in place during all movement. If the rear foot slips up and down or side to side, the shoe is not giving enough support to the ankle and knee joints.
■ Flared heels are important in walking and running where the initial contact occurs at the heel. The broader base shoe increases the surface area for the foot at contact.
This helps provide a wide platform of support while at the same time dispersing impact over a wider surface area.
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■ Keep in mind that a proper fit is paramount in providing adequate support. The foot should feel supported without feeling restricted.
■ Ask the salesperson if you can run or walk outside on the sidewalk or in the mall concourse when trying on different shoes.
Clue #2: Walking Shoes or Running Shoes? Which Is Best?
One of the most common questions asked of athletic shoe salespersons is which is best, a running shoe or a walking shoe. Walkers and runners can shop in the same store and both find the best fitting shoe.
Walking-specific shoes are not as common as they once were because running shoes offer a greater variety of stability, cushion, and motion-control options. Walkers, do not be alarmed if a salesperson encourages you to buy a “running” shoe; it may in fact be the best option for you.
■ Walking shoes require more heel cushioning than front foot cushioning because your heel strikes the ground first.
Walkers need a flexible shoe to allow for the toe-push off in their stride. A good running shoe is usually a good walking shoe.
■ Running shoes require adequate shock absorption because your feet are constantly pounding the ground.
Proper arch and heel support (your heel should be snug in the back of the shoe) are needed. Flats can be advantageous in increasing speed.
However, you should carefully consider the small gains in time before sacrificing the cushioning and support that results from running in flats. Heavy runners or heel strikers should avoid running in flats
Note: Ideally, runners should land on their forefoot, letting the heel drop slightly and then springing forward. Most runners land on their heels (“heel strikers”) which can place more stress on the feet and up through the legs.
Clue #3: Shock Absorbency and Body Weight
Look for a shoe that offers the best shock absorbing materials to reduce the risk of impact injuries such as shin splints or stress fractures.
Polyurethane provides excellent cushioning in the midsole to aid in shock absorbency. Many shoe companies are now using nonfoam cushioning (that is, honeycomb-shaped air cells) which is much more durable.
When you make contact with the ground during a run or walk, your feet will bear two to three times your body weight per square inch; you must consider your body weight when shopping for shoes. Heavier runners/walkers (greater than 165 lbs) should look for:
■ A combination of cushioning, stability, and rearfoot control
■ A multi-density midsole with polyurethane and air or gel cushioning
■ A carbon rubber outsole
■ A straight or slightly curved shape
Conversely, lightweight runners/walkers should seek out lighter shoes with less cushioning and fewer motion control features.
Clue #4: Foot Type (Pronation and Supination)
Pronation means your feet roll excessively inward. Supination means your feet roll excessively outward. There is some natural pronation and supination of your feet during walking and running.
These motions of the foot only become a problem if they are excessive. Knowing your foot type can make it easier to match your bio-mechanical needs to the characteristics of a shoe.
To determine your foot type, wet your feet and step on a sheet of paper or dark pavement.
Normal Foot:
Shows an imprint with the toes and heels connected by a wide band
Nearly any shoe will work for normal feet. Moderate stability, arch support, and cushion are appropriate.
Flat Foot:
Shows an imprint that looks like the whole sole of the foot, which indicates excessive pronation
Shoes with a firm midsole and motion-control features that reduce pronation
High-Arched Foot:
Shows an imprint with the toes and heel connected by a very narrow band, which indicates excessive supination.
Shoes with plenty of flexibility and cushioning
Clue #5: Wear and Tear
If you exercise almost every day in one pair of shoes, they probably need to be replaced every three to six months.
Excessive wear leads to a lack of support. It is helpful to have two pairs of shoes to alternate throughout the week. Monitor your shoes closely for signs of wear.
Wear patterns can also indicate excessive pronation or supination of the foot, which can predispose you to injury if you are not wearing an appropriate shoe.
Signs of Normal Wear:
■ Scuffs on the outsole, over the middle area of the rearfoot, and middle area of toes and forefoot
■ The midsole, or area of shock absorption, begins to break down
■ The laces, toe-box, and other areas of the upper (the fabric above the sole) readily shows wear
Signs of Abnormal Wear:
■ Outside of the shoe begins to wear before any other part (indicates excessive supination)
■ The inner part of the shoe wears before any other part (indicates excessive pronation)
Clue #6: Surface Differences
The surface that you exercise on can make a difference in your performance and shoe wear.
■ Good midsole shock absorbency is recommended
■ Good outsole durability is needed (outsole made of carbon rubber is more durable than other materials)
■ Less cushioning is necessary
■ More motion control is needed to help with the frequent turns on the track
■ Less cushioning is necessary
■ More all-around support is recommended because trails often have varied terrain
Clue #7: Shoes to Choose Update
Watch for annual shoe surveys that appear in running and walking magazines and websites. These surveys typically provide expert analysis and ratings on the current shoes on the market.
In Bottom Line:
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1 Comments
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