This post is about 4 Tips for Selecting Running Shoes. You’ve finally decided to do it. You’ve been thinking about it, doubting your ability to see it through, and how challenging it would be for the first few days but you’ve decided to stop overthinking it and go along with it. You may have decided to take up running for several reasons but what matters is that you have everything you need to get you started on the right foot. Your feet are the major part of the body being engaged while running and it is important that you take care of it by getting yourself the right pair of running shoes.
I know what you might be thinking ‘I already have a pair of sneakers so, why do I need to get a pair of running shoes?’ For one, running shoes are designed to protect your feet when running and give your ankle adequate support to reduce the stress placed on it. The right pair of running shoes from an AU Asics store can influence how well you perform and your ability to stick with it for as long as you want.
4 Tips for Selecting Running Shoes
Let’s look at what you need to know about running shoes and how to pick the best pair for yourself.
What Should an Ideal Running Shoe Feel Like?
A great pair of running shoes should feel comfortable and light. When you move with it, you should feel like you can go the distance without feeling any pain or being weighed down by the shoes.
The ideal pair of running shoes should feel breathable by encouraging airflow to your toes. Your toes should have enough wiggle room instead of having to wince every time you move or count down the minutes till you get to take it off. Running shoes should be flexible enough to allow easy movement and sturdy for the activity you are doing.
Now that you know how running shoes should feel like, here’s how you can select the best one for you.
Tip 1: Pronation Matters
Pronation refers to the way your feet move or roll inward during natural movement. There are 3 types of pronation which are natural or neutral pronation, overpronation, and under pronation or supination. Your pronation determines how you move and can affect the type of shoes you wear.
To know your pronation type, you need to conduct a gait analysis. This can be done at a specialty store like Asics store in Australia or with your local podiatrist. Depending on your pronation, you may need stability shoes that have a better grip and are designed in a way to reduce injuries that could potentially occur due to your pronation.
Tip 2: Get Shoes that Fit
Avoid shoes that are too tight or loose hoping that they would eventually fit after wearing them for a while. The first thing to do is to get your feet measured if you are not sure of your size and go shopping in the evening or late afternoon when your feet are a bit swollen from the day’s activities.
The next step is to test it. While the shoes may be your exact size, there may be hidden problems that you won’t spot unless you perform certain activities with them. Walk around with them briefly or use the in-store treadmill to test it out. Do some stretches and abrupt movements to get an idea of how flexible it is.
Tip 3: Shop from a reliable brand
It is advisable to shop from a specialty brand due to their trained personnel and experience. It is also a good idea to buy from a reliable brand that has trusted products so that you can rest assured of getting value for your money.
This applies especially when shopping online since you have to rely on pictures and online specifications. Plus, the brand should have a good return policy for a situation where you discover features you don’t like.
Tip 4: Do Your Research
Before you settle on a pair of running shoes, take your time to find out what you can about it. Check for the materials used to make the shoe, what it was designed for, and reviews on the running shoes. The information you find can be all you need to determine whether or not those shoes are for you.
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