What To Look For
If you're a woman who spends a lot of time in high heels, the thought of a flat, cushioned running shoe probably sounds like a wonderful change of pace. But with so many brands and styles to choose from, buying the right shoe takes time, research and a little bit of patience.
You can choose from four major types of running shoes: cushioned, motion control, stability and trail. Cushioned shoes are designed to maximize shock absorption, while motion control shoes help prevent the foot from rolling in- or outward during the stride (also known as "pronating"). Stability shoes feature a combination of both shock absorption and motion control, while trail shoes are designed for rougher running surfaces.
The right shoe for you depends on a number of factors unique to your own body, including the height of your arches (flat, medium or high), the degree to which your feet pronate, and your desired running surface (pavement or trails).
Common Pitfalls
Have you ever bought a pair of shoes and thought, "Maybe they're a little tight, but I'll eventually break them in?" The American Podiatric Medical Association states that shoes should be comfortable immediately and not require any kind of "break-in" period. With running shoes, simply getting measured at the shoe store will not guarantee long-term comfort, but you can increase your chances considerably by doing some homework in order to understand the two most important factors in a good fit: your arch and your gait. Zappos provides simple instructions for determining the shape of your arch, while Roadrunner Sports will help you understand how your feet strike the ground by examining the soles of shoes you currently wear. Once you understand these two key factors, then it's time to visit a local retailer.
Where To Buy
Specialty athletic shoe stores are an excellent place to try on different brands and styles of shoes. The salespeople at these types of stores should be trained to measure your feet properly and recommend the right styles to accommodate your arch, gait, and preferred running surface. Once you find the shoe that you want, consider doing a price comparison online to see where you can find that particular model at the best possible price. Zappos, Shoebuy and Endless are a few examples of online shoe retailers that offer wide selections, plus the convenience of free return shipping if you change your mind after receiving your purchase.
Cost
Expect to invest anywhere between $50 to $300 or more for a pair of good-quality running shoes. The price range really depends on the features offered, the materials used and the brand. Remember that the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine estimates that runners should replace their shoes after logging in 350 to 550 miles in them, or when the soles show excessive wear. Depending on how many miles you run, you may need to budget for more than one pair of running shoes a year.
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