What To Look For
Running is a fantastic way for women to get in shape or maintain a healthy weight. Unlike many recreational activities, the only piece of equipment you really need to get started is a pair of running shoes and a nice stretch of sidewalk, road or trail. How much you enjoy your time running depends a lot on those shoes. A pair that doesn't suit the size and shape of your foot is likely to cause discomfort at best, and pain or injury at worst. The single most important thing to remember about buying a new pair of running shoes is to focus on the fit.
There are four major types of running shoes available on the market: cushioned shoes that offer more shock absorption, motion control shoes that prevent your feet from tilting in or out while running, stability shoes that combines both features, and trail shoes that have thicker soles best suited for rugged terrain.
Common Pitfalls
If you assume that letting a salesperson measure your feet is the only thing you need to do to purchase a comfortable new pair of running shoes, you might not be very pleased with the results. The proper measurement requires more homework than simply walking into a store. The shape of your arch and the style of your gait will have a big influence on the type of shoe you buy, and these measurements are easier to do at home.
For a clear, step-by-step way to determine the shape of your arch, try the water test, which Zappos offers a description of on its running shoe buying guide. As for your gait style, look at the undersides of several pairs of shoes that you wear regularly, preferably older running shoes if you have them. The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine offers some great tips on how to determine your gait style by studying the wear patterns on your shoes. Remember that getting your foot measured at a shoe store isn't enough information to pick the right style. Knowing the shape of your arch and your gait style are as important as getting properly measured.
Where To Buy
These days, it's easy to buy and return shoes online if you change your mind after getting them in the mail. But since running shoes demand the best possible fit, you should start looking for them by visiting a specialty athletic shoe store where the salespeople will offer to measure your feet. Based on your arch shape, gait style and desired running surface, the salesperson should offer to let you try on a variety of shoes that are right for your feet. Remember that the American Podiatric Medical Association recommends trying on shoes at the time of day when your feet are at their most swollen, and also wearing socks similar to what you'll wear while running.
Once you've selected the model you like best, do some comparison shopping online that offers free return shipping. Zappos and Running Warehouse have large selections of running shoes in stock.
Cost
Women's running shoes average from $50 per pair to over $300 for elite runners' models. The price of the best shoe for you depends on the features you need, as well as the materials and brand of shoe you prefer. If you find that you like a more expensive shoe, don't despair. Like cars, running shoes have close-out models that stores mark down dramatically when a company decides not to produce them anymore. Also, in-store and online discounts are common, so be on the lookout for coupons or promotional codes that will help you save money on your purchase.
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