5 Quick Tips for Choosing the Right Pair of Shoes

1. Find a Shoe Designed for Running

Just because a shoe may look like you can run in it, that doesn’t mean it was meant to withstand the constant impact the activity involves. Running-specific shoes are designed to help you run faster, have a more comfortable experience, and help with injury prevention.    

2. Make Sure it Fits Properly

There should be about a thumb’s width of space between your toe and the edge of the shoe. There should also be enough space in the toe box for you to wiggle your toes freely. Many shoes come in wider options, so if you feel that your shoe is too tight or pinching the sides of your foot, consider changing the width.

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3. Know Your Foot Shape

Do you have high arches? Do you overpronate? Are your feet flat? If you don’t know the answer to these questions, head to a local running store and ask about having a gait analysis done; the process is often free! Your feet can also change over time and elongate, so it is beneficial to be measured every few years as well.

4. Take Them for a Test Run

Some running stores have treadmills for you to test the shoes during your visit. Others will let you go for a run in a new pair of shoes you’ve purchased and bring them back if they don’t fit right. You may even discover a local group run partnering with a brand where you can test out shoes during the run for free and determine if you like them before purchasing.

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5. Purchase Them in the Evening

Our feet tend to swell as the day goes on. If you purchase a pair of shoes in the morning, they may end up being too tight if you lace them up for an evening run.

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