What To Look For
The most important thing for runners who tend towards pronation is to diagnose whether you are over- or underpronating. Overpronating is when your foot rolls in at the ankle, and underpronating is when it rolls outwards. You can tell which kind of runner you are by looking at your shoes; if the treads are worn more on the inside, you probably overpronate, and vice-versa.
This will determine the kind of shoe you need. Overpronaters need a shoe that controls motion and blocks the ankle from rolling inward. These "motion control" shoes form a category of their own and are easily identifiable in running shoe catalogues. They feature a specially-designed midsole and a firm heel area. Underpronaters will need a highly cushioned shoe, and should not use a motion control shoe.
Common Pitfalls
According to ePodiatry, overpronating is one of the leading causes of running injuries and, and if you suspect that you are running with an overpronation this tendency should be addressed immediately.
Make sure you are properly diagnosing your pronation and whether it is an over- or underpronation. Using the wrong kind of shoe will encourage your tendencies in the opposite direction from what you need. Underpronaters do not need the kind of motion control overpronaters do, as they are already blocked in their movement, and vice-versa.
Where To Buy
You can find running shoes both in specialty local running stores and online. However, for runners with pronation issues, buying your first new pair of shoes that addresses this issue in person is a good idea, as you can discuss your issues with the store clerk and try on shoes, getting a feel for which brands and styles help you the most. For subsequent pairs of running shoes, you can order the same brand and style online, either from the manufacturer or a specialty shoe site, saving money and time.
Cost
Over- and underpronation are such common issues that a wide variety of running shoes address them. Therefore, running shoes that prevent pronation cost about the same amount as a normal pair of running shoes. $100 is a good figure to keep in mind as you shop; an average pair of running shoes will cost you about this much. However, you can find shoes to prevent pronation for as little as $80 or as much as $150 or even higher. The most important thing to keep in mind is that a cheaper pair of shoes that doesn't prevent pronation will end up costing you a lot more in sports injuries than a more expensive pair that will keep you injury-free.
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