What To Look For
People of all ages run to lose excess weight, maintain a healthy weight or improve their overall physical condition. Unlike some sports that require a sizable investment in equipment, running only requires a comfortable pair of shoes. The four most common types of shoes available for purchase are: neutral cushioning shoes that absorb excess shock, motion control shoes that keep your feet flat when hitting the ground, stability shoes that support cushioning and motion control and trail shoes that are designed for running on uneven or rugged terrain. The type of shoe you select will depend largely on three key measurements taken by you and a trained salesperson.
Common Pitfalls
Comfortable running shoes rely on more than just size for a great fit. There are two additional measurements that you should take before trying anything on--your arch and gait. A high or low arch will affect the way your foot strikes the road and how much cushioning or motion control you need. Footsmart has a helpful visual guide to measuring your arches by simply dipping them in water and examining your footprints. As for your gait, take a look at the soles of running shoes or flat shoes that you already wear. The areas where your soles are most worn will tell you if your feet tend to roll in, out, or remain stable while running or walking. Roadrunner Sports offers tips on how to interpret your wear patterns and select shoes that will accommodate your natural stride.
Where To Buy
Your best starting point is a reputable athletic shoe store where a trained salesperson will measure your feet and recommend the styles and brands best suited to your arch shape and gait. If no such stores exist in your area, or if you prefer to shop online for a wider variety, there are a number online retailers--Zappos, Roadrunner Sports and Endless--that provide free return shipping in case you're dissatisfied with your purchase. Roadrunner Sports also offers a helpful tool called "Shoe Dog" that factors in your gender, desired running terrain, arch, gait and prior injuries, and then recommends running shoes designed to accommodate your very particular set of needs.
Cost
Adult running shoes range from $50 to more than $300 for elite runners' models with all of the bells and whistles, such as ultralight synthetic materials and gel-based orthothic arch supports. If you're a beginner, you may be able to shop in the lower end of the range until you log in enough miles to justify a pricier pair. Just remember to buy the right shoe for your foot type because a proper fit can help you enjoy your runs more, which will encourage you to keep up with the activity.
Insider Tips
Shoe manufacturers often discontinue particular models of running shoes in order to update their lines. If you notice that a model you really enjoy running in is marked down at a steep discount, ask the sale person if it's a closeout. If it is, you may want to consider buying it because you might not see them around again. Don't worry about the second pair going to waste. The American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine recommends replacing your running shoes every 350 to 500 miles.
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