What To Look For
When buying a running shoe, you want to consider which shoe will have the best fit, address any pronation issues you may have. The outsole, or the bottom of the shoe, should be wear-resistant and provide some level of traction, which will be evident in the waffle-pattern on the bottom. The midsole, between the upper and the outsole, is the most important part of the shoe. It should provide you with extra padding where you need it. If you do not have pronation (the inward roll of the foot during normal motion) issues, do not buy a shoe with extra padding in these areas, as it may change your stride. The upper top of the shoe should be padded to avoid chafing. Finally, the heel area should feature special padding.
Common Pitfalls
Do not be impressed by shoes that feature fancy materials, the "latest technology," or sleek designs. While these may mean that the shoes are well-constructed, they do not necessarily mean they are high-quality. When shopping for training, jogging, and running shoes, make sure that you are buying the best shoes for you--that is, shoes constructed in the proper way that fit you perfectly. Check the fit before buying to make sure that you have enough, but not too much, room. A good guideline is to have a thumb's width between your toes and the shoe, and enough room to stick your fingers in the shoe elsewhere. You should be able to slide off your shoe when it is unlaced without using your hands to pull.
Where To Buy
You can find shoes for training, jogging and running online and in stores. Local running shops often struggle to compete with online retailers and so tend to offer a staff that is rich in knowledge and expertise and willing to provide you with excellent customer service. These people usually know quite a bit about the shoes that they carry. However, their stock may be limited and will certainly be more limited than online web sites. The web sites, whether the manufacturer's or a larger site selling numerous brands, offer a wide selection of sizes, models, and prices. The drawback is that you can't try them on before buying online and may find yourself returning shoes not to your liking.
Cost
The best training, jogging, and running shoes usually cost around $100. In a guide published by Runner's World, the top shoes ran between $80 and $150. Just because a shoe costs more, doesn't mean that it is better than a less expensive model. Keep in mind the construction of the shoe and how it fits you and don't be swayed by design elements that won't change how well you run.
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