How to Choose the Right Running Shoes

Whether you’re getting back into running or you’re already a seasoned jogger, you should know that running shoes are essential for a speedy and safe run. People usually have their own ideas about how to choose the right running shoes, often based on feel, but many don’t have a holistic understanding of what makes a right running shoe right for you.

The expert podiatrists at Premier Foot & Ankle understand that wearing the right footwear is important for your exercise routine, especially running. We’ve put together these factors to keep in mind when you’re choosing running shoes.

Location, location, location

To begin, there are generally three types of running shoes: trail running shoes, road shoes, and cross-training shoes. Where you run makes a difference in choosing the best footwear for your workout.

Trail runners

Trail runners are optimal for terrain that may be more bumpy or rough, such as mountain trails, off-road routes, or other areas with rocks, sticks, and other obstacles. This type of shoe is thicker in tread with enhanced traction.

Road-running shoes

On the other hand, shoes you wear for running on the sidewalk, road, or other hard surface are lighter, more flexible, and designed to stabilize your feet on solid terrain.

Cross-trainers

Cross-training shoes are a specific sub-type, intended for use in a gym. These shoes maximize your feet’s contact with the ground to ensure proper training in a gym-like environment.

Gait matters

Gait refers to the way in which you walk or run. You can analyze your own gait by using online tutorials, or you can ask a sales associate. You also can see a foot specialist to do this analysis.

Pronation refers to the roll of your foot and ankle when you land while running. Knowing whether you have underpronation (also known as supination), normal pronation, or overpronation helps inform the type of shoe you should select.

Choose comfort over style

Comfort and sizing is key to selecting the right running shoes. You should feel 100% comfortable in the shoe, meaning your toes have room to expand, the arch of the shoe hugs your natural arch, and the heel of the shoe doesn’t grate on your heel or ankle.

Along with this, be certain to measure both of your feet. If they’re different, lean toward the greater size, as this ensures that you won’t be too squeezed after a longer run.

As any experienced runner can tell you, the right shoe makes all the difference. If you have questions about your gait or are interested in learning more about how your foot moves, call or book an appointment online today to meet with a specialist at any of the convenient Premier Foot & Ankle locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.