Good running shoes are essential for comfort, to help prevent injury and to provide your feet and ankles with the support they need during the repeated impact of running. When buying women's running shoes, you may encounter some issues for which you may not be prepared. Salespeople, especially those at specialty running stores, can help you pick the best running shoe for your specific needs and concerns.
Selecting the Right Pair for Your Foot
Depending on your stride and the way you run, your choice of running shoe will vary. Find out whether you have a high arch, flat feet or are neutral. An easy way to do this is the "wet test." Wet your feet, then step on a sidewalk or dark construction paper; this will give you an imprint of your foot. Based on the imprint, you can see if you are flat-footed, have a high arch or are neutral. If you are flat-footed, you are likely a pronator, which means you need a running shoe that provides support. High arched individuals tend to supinate, and a shoe with a curved or semi-curved last, or shape, will be best. Those with neutral feet need a straight or semi-curved last. Buying a shoe that does not work best for your foot can lead to fit issues and even injury.
Fit
When you go to buy running shoes, wear the kind of socks you will likely wear when you run. This will provide you with a better idea of how the shoes fit. Try to go at the end of the day, when your foot is slightly swollen. As you run, your feet will swell, especially in hot or humid weather, and if you do not take this into account, you may end up with a pair of running shoes that are too small. At the store, do not assume a smaller size in a men's shoe will fit you as well as women's specific shoes. Women's running shoes are not small men's shoes; they are typically built on a last that takes into account the smaller heel size of women and other factors between the genders. Poorly fitting running shoes can lead to blisters and discomfort.
Type of Running
Buying a pair of good running shoes also means buying the right type of running shoe for the kind of running you will be doing most often. Do you plan on running on the road, or exclusively on trails? The construction of each type of shoe is different, which is something to consider. Shoes for trail running have more aggressive outsoles for better traction, and added stability for the uneven terrain you will encounter. The materials with which these shoes are made often include water-resistant materials and added protection against rocks and debris. Road running shoes are made for pavement running and provide cushioning against hard surfaces, but may not give you the stability you need on trails.
Cost
Good running shoes are not cheap, but cost may be an issue. While you do not have to pick the most expensive running shoe, quality running shoes are well made to withstand the pounding and wear you will put on them. If you are looking for less expensive options, you may want to wait for a sale at your local sporting goods store. Typically, several times a year, the previous season's shoes will be discounted when the newer styles and colors come out. You may also want to go to factory stores or outlet stores; just make sure there are no defects with the shoe or its construction.
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