What To Look For
Choosing the best pair of running shoes available will depend on several highly individual factors: your gender, your weight, how you run, whether you over- or under-pronate. However, the best running shoes all have quality materials and solid constructions. To pick the best pair of running shoes for you, look at several different parts of the shoe. The upper, which holds the foot in place, should have some kind of combination of leather, which is usually synthetic, mesh, to allow your foot to cool off, and reflective materials, for running at night. The midsole, or the inner part of the shoe, should have cushioning. How much cushioning and its placement will depend on how you run, but typical choices include EVA, a light foam cushioning, and polyurethane, which is heavier and denser. Finally, on the outsole, or bottom, of the shoe, look for treads that provide traction, a good level of flexibility, and either carbon rubber, which is stiffer, or regular rubber.
Common Pitfalls
Don't let yourself be persuaded by flashy ad campaigns and celebrity endorsements. The two most important factors for choosing the best running shoes available are the materials of the shoe and your style of running. Get to know your style of running before shopping; choosing the wrong shoe can result in discomfort and even injury. If you have a high arch, you may underpronate, or let your foot fall outward from the ankle when you run. Look for a semi-curved stability shoe to help correct this issue. On the other end of the spectrum are overpronaters, who have low arches. These runners should look for straight shoes with motion control features, like extra padding under the arch, to help correct their foot's tendency to roll inward from the ankle with each stride.
Where To Buy
Your local running store will have the best idea of the best running shoes available, and carry a selection of the shoes they think fit the bill. The experienced sales clerks and personal advice you can get at a specialty running store are well worth the slightly higher prices you may have to pay. Chain stores may have a wider selection, but you may be on your own for figuring out which shoe is right for you. Don't attempt to buy a running shoe online until you've already purchased your first pair in a store. It is impossible to know what the best running shoe available for you is until you have run a few strides in it.
Cost
Higher price doesn't mean higher quality when it comes to running shoes. In general, running shoes cost around $100, but can go from $80 to $125. Be wary of shoes you find that are significantly cheaper than this; a pair of $30 running shoes may save your wallet some pain, but may cause your body injury later on.
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