How To Find The Best Running Shoes For You

The Starting Line

With so many factors to consider (like pronation, shoe selection, sizing,  foot strike, and running shoe cushioning), there’s just no way that one brand can be the best running shoe for everyone.  So with all the hype out there, where’s the best place to start?

You should start with the basics: “Do your homework.” (Which is probably why you are here in the first place – right?)  You should invest the time it takes to ask some simple questions, and find some basic answers –  before you start shopping.

• What type of feet do I have?
• Which shoe features are most helpful for me?
• Which features are a waste of my money – or worse?

Then, armed with some answers to these questions, you will have a much better idea of  what kind of shoes will meet your unique needs — in other words, the best running shoes for you.

The Next Step

When you’re ready, then “Go See the Experts.” You can do your homework, but only up to a certain point. You don’t need to become a shoe expert, at least not right away! There are experts out there already, ready and eager to help you. Find a reputable store that specializes in selling running shoes, one with a knowledgeable staff that can help you analyze your running style. They will be happy to give their recommendations about the right and wrong shoes  for you. Some stores even have video equipment set up on treadmills that can record movies of your feet while you run. This service, if you can find it, provides terrific feedback about your unique running style.

Take The Shoes For A Run

Before you buy, take a run in those shoes!  It might seem obvious, but you need to really test out a running shoe before deciding. That’s why you should always go shopping dressed to run.  Some stores might have a treadmill that you can use, while others might let you take the shoes out for a run around the block. But in any case, you can’t make a good decision by simply trying on the shoes and walking a few steps around the store — that’s not nearly enough to tell if they are right for you.

Check The Exchange Policy

Brooks Mach 12 Spikes

Always ask about about the store’s return policy. Some stores will allow you to return your shoes, even if you have been running in them for awhile. Try to find a store that values your business highly enough to have a flexible policy that benefits you, the runner.

The Finish Line

You can get lots of good advice from friends, family, coaches, and store staff about the perfect cross country running shoes , or cool off road shoes, or the best running shoes for women, but in the end, it’s your decision. That’s where the “homework” part starts to pay off!  The more you understand about your needs, the better decision you can make. So take your time and do what feels right, and you will find the best running shoes — for you. Happy running!

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