What To Look For
When shopping for a new pair of running shoes, there are a variety of different benefits and drawbacks that you need to consider before you make a purchase. While many people prefer a lightweight, low-rising shoe, others have issues with the lack of ankle and arch support that these lightweight shoes frequently have. Additionally, insole cushion, width and size should also be considered.
Common Pitfalls
Many runners make the mistake of purchasing a pair of shoes without considering their need for ankle and arch support. Particularly with younger runners, many don't think that they need the support and would prefer to have a lighter shoe. However, regardless of how light a shoe is designed, if you plan on running for extended periods of time, you will need at least some level of arch support. For a lightweight shoe with good support, consider a shoe that is designed with mesh outer lining because the lightweight material takes off weight from the shoe without sacrificing support.
Where To Buy
Despite media hype, it is not necessary to pay for an expensive pair of Nike or Adidas running shoes; they can often be as poorly designed as a cheap pair from Payless or Walmart. If you're looking for a low-cost alternative to expensive designer shoes, look for shoes that have good arch support, mesh outer lining and good cushioning in the sole. You can find a good pair of running shoes in stores like Sports Authority or Big 5 or online at warehouses like Zappos.com. All of these stores have good track records and return policies but, if you do purchase online, be aware that you will have to deal with shipping costs.
Cost
If you would prefer to buy a designer pair of running shoes, most brands like Adidas, Nike or Reebok produce a new model of their shoes every season, making their older models cheaper to purchase, though still of the same quality. Smaller sporting goods stores or online stores will often sell these older models for discounted prices. Zappos.com, for example, sells the Adidas Barricade II and III models for $50 or $60, which is about $80 or $90 less than the newer Barricade VI model.
Insider Tips
If you are interested in buying a name brand designer running shoe, there are a few trends which each company tends to follow. New Balance and Asics running shoes tend to be lighter and with higher arches than other brands, while Nike is known for designing very narrow running shoes. Additionally, New Balance and Reebok running shoes typically come in an optional wide width for runners with wide feet or for people who like to use the shoes for walking.
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