Searching for the right running shoes can feel daunting if you are not sure what the things that you should look for are. There are so many different choices on offer for you, with each claiming to have some or other technology to offer you the maximum comfort. So, here is a brief rundown on the things that you should keep in mind when trying to choose the best running shoes for yourself.
Choose shoes that are specifically made for running
Running shoes look a lot like sneakers, but they have special designs and features that make them remarkably different. While running, your foot is hitting the ground in the same way repeatedly. Running shoes help in shock absorption during this time, so that you do not suffer from troubles, like heel pain, later on.
Getting the fit absolutely right
If the shoes do not fit right, you are just setting yourself up for foot diseases, such as plantar fasciitis, in future. Keep in mind that your feet swell a slight bit through the day and they also spread as you run. So, it is better to try out the shoes in the evening or afternoon to get a more accurate estimate of the fit. There has to be about a thumb width of gap between the end of your shoe and the foot to account for the foot spread.
Select the right kind of running shoes
The kind of running shoes you get should also depend on the intensity of running that you plan to do. So, you need to opt for trail running shoes if you practice on dirt tracks more. Lightweight shoes would work well for races or faster workouts. Finally, you can also opt for daily running shoes, which are the most durable option. It can handle any kind of running that you want to do.
Consider what you are paying for
The price tag of running shoes usually relates to the kind of technology or comfort that the shoes are supposed to offer you. Now, this means getting inexpensive shoes would not really work in giving you the comfort you need to run. On the other hand, it is not like only the most expensive pair is your best bet when aiming to enjoy a run.
Understand a few terms
Stack height is the amount of material placed between the ground and your feet. The ones who look for high impact protection, opt for higher stack height. On the other hand, those who are looking for a more natural experience of feeling the ground while running can go for low stack height.
Pronation refers to the rolling of your foot from the heel to the toe by the foot strike. A neutral strike pattern is when you strike with the outer part of the heel and move up to the ball of the foot. If you have flat foot, then you might have over-pronation, which is rolling too much inside of the foot during the strike cycle. The opposite of this is under-pronation, which happens when your feet have high arches.
Heel-toe drop is the difference in the amount of material under the forefoot and that under the heel. You should check that there's more material under the heel to go with your normal stride while running where the heel hits the ground with the maximum impact.
Lastly, keep in mind that it's not like the shoes that are perfect for your friend would even be right for you. So, keep these points in mind and choose the running shoes that fit your feet the best.
