Jogging puts stress on the foot and can cause repetitive stress injuries. If you jog three or more times per week, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends using a sports-specific shoe. Athletic shoes have design variations in material and weight to protect different areas of the feet in a particular athletic activity. Seven categories of athletic shoes are available including jogging shoes. A good jogging shoe will have flexibility, control stability in the heel counter area and good traction.
Finding the Right Shoe
No two feet are alike and this makes finding the right shoe more complicated. Shoes vary in contour, style and design. Therefore, it is important to take time to get the right fit when you are purchasing a jogging shoe. Try the shoes on in the evening or after a workout. Feet swell and are the largest at the end of the day. Wear the same socks you use when jogging. When you have the shoe on, you should be able to wriggle your toes. The shoe should grip your heel and not slip when you run. Jogging shoes should feel comfortable from the moment you try them on. If they are not, choose another shoe.
Merrell Overdrive
Fitness Magazine rates the Merrell Overdrive as number two out of seven running sneakers they tested. The Merrell Overdrive helps you stay balanced, even on rocky terrain, by stabilizing your foot and keeping centered. The Merrell Overdrive is a good jogging shoe for trail or park joggers. If you frequently jog in the country or on a trail, the extra support from the TrailSpring cushioning technology that centers and stabilizes your heel will keep you more balanced while jogging, notes Adam W. Chase in an article in "Running Times." It also has a quick lace system, a metatarsal pad for underfoot protection and a ventilation and drainage system.
ASICS - Gel-Nimbus
The ASICS Gel-Nimbus jogging shoe has extra cushioning on the bottom of the foot, which is good for people with a high arch. This gives extra protection against pounding on the pavement, according to CBS News Early Show. The heel has extra cushioning, called a "crash pad," for support on heel strikes. The Gel-Nimbus is designed for street or track and retails around $120.
New Balance 858
The New Balance 858 is good for people who are flat footed or have low arches. It is a super stable shoe with arch support where the foot's arch is missing. The 858 uses grey dual-density foam in large amounts to achieve support and stability. The New Balance 858 is a good street jogging shoe that retails around $100.
Saucony Grid Sinister
For people with normal feet who do not have any ankle or pronation issues, the Saucony Grid Sinister is a neutral jogging shoe for street use. It has a flex plate that helps to propel you forward, is lightweight, flexible and has cushioning under the foot. The Grid Sinister retails around $90.
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