Athletic shoes are marketed based on style, performance and sport-specific construction. With the vast selection of athletic shoes available, making a sound purchase depends on a basic understanding of shoe function and construction. The science behind athletic shoe construction centers on protecting areas of your feet that receive the most impact and stress from a particular activity, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Choosing the right pair of shoes for your activity can help you exercise more comfortably and avoid unnecessary injury.
Step 1
Determine which type of athletic shoe you need. If you participate in a particular sport more than three times a week, you need a shoe designed for that activity, according to health writer Tonia Moore in "How to Buy the Right Athletic Shoes." Whether you run, walk, play a court sport such as tennis or basketball, participate in aerobics or play a field sport such as football or soccer, choose a sport-specific shoe designed for the proper protection of your feet and ankles. If you participate in a balance of several different athletic activities, a cross-training shoe might be appropriate, adds Moore.
Step 2
Try on shoes in the late afternoon or after exercising since feet tend to swell throughout the day and during exercise. Re-lace the shoes and wear the same style of socks you wear during athletic activity, recommends the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Step 3
Find the right fit. To ensure comfort and promote injury-free exercise, make sure that you try on several different brands. Sizing varies among brands, so pay close attention to how a shoe feels on your foot when determining the correct size. Try on both shoes since one foot is often larger than the other, and look for a shoe that feels comfortable on your largest foot. Aim for a half inch gap between your toes and the end of the shoe, advises Moore.
Step 4
Take the shoes for a test drive. Walk, run and jump in your prospective shoes to test for comfort, fit and performance. A high-quality, good-fitting athletic shoe feels comfortable from the first use, and doesn't require breaking in, advises the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Tips and Warnings
- Running, cross-country and walking shoes are engineered to provide the right amount of stability based on your pronation tendency. If your foot rolls inward at impact more than 5 percent, you need a motion control or stability shoe. Severe overpronators need a motion control shoe to protect the ankle and help absorb shock. Mild overpronators should choose a stability shoe. For the best fit, seek out a specialty store where the personnel can help you determine which shoes will best suit your needs.
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