How To Choose The Right Running Shoes
Learning how to pick the right running shoes is important as you will tend to be awestruck by the multitude of shoes every time you venture into a sporting goods store. Occasionally there may be new and major breakthroughs in shoe design and construction, but not as often as every season.
To help you sort through the different types of shoes, here are tips on how to choose the right running shoes by looking at the different parts of the running shoe and the role they play as you run.
How To Pick The Right Running Shoes
1) The Upper Portion Of The Shoe
This section of the shoe is generally lightweight and some models have air holes for ventilation. These shoes are great for running in warm weather as the holes help circulate air in the heat. However, shoes with air holes will not be suitable for running in the cold as your feet will get frozen.
2) The Bottom Of The Running Shoe (Outsole)
Also known as the outsole, this is the part of the shoe that strikes the ground. It should be durable to give you the proper traction for the running you plan to do and the surface you plan to run on. The tread will be for straight-ahead motion, unlike cross-trainers, which have tread that goes from side to side.
3) The Lining Of The Running Shoe (Insole)
The insole is generally removable. It provides an added layer of cushion and support. Note the height of the arch support inside the shoe. It should match your own arch design. Supination occurs when your ankle rolls out, so that your weight lands more on the sides of your foot.
4) The Midsole
The midsole is the key area of the running shoe. This is the area directly above the outsole that provides most of the cushioning. This is often done using air pockets or gel. You may consider dual=density foam as this combination of foam provides both support and cushioning.
This section of the running shoe is the equivalent to a shock absorber. You will need to find the one that fits you the best.
5) Heel Counter Area
The heel counter area is located on the back around the heel. It is usually the strongest and sturdiest section of the running shoe. You will want to choose running shoes with firm heels to give you a solid base and your feet do not move around.
6) The Toe Box
The size of the toe box is important. Not all toe boxes are created equal. You will need to be sensitive to the one that matches your toe size. A toe box too large will allow your toes to move too much. A toe box too small will put your toes under pressure resulting in blisters or black toenails.
7) Flexibility Of The Running Shoes
Flexibility is important in keeping plantar fasciitis or Achilles problems to a minimum. A running shoe’s flexibility needs to match how your foot works. A good test is to pick up the shoe and fold it. The right running shoe should bend where your foot does – in the front section of your foot, not the middle where your arch is located.
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