Buying the wrong type of running shoes is like marrying the wrong man or woman; you’ll never really be happy and when it ends [and believe me, it will] it will have cost you money and in the case of the shoes; you’ll likely be left with foot, knee, hip and back ache.
Now I can’t give you any advice on choosing the right life partner but I can give you some valuable tips on getting the best out of your running shoes…
If The Shoe Fits
In this case; if the shoe fits – go at least a half size up, I always go one whole size up but that’s just me. A running shoe that fits properly will feel snug in length and width.
Don’t think it’s weird to have one foot slightly bigger than the other; you’re not a freak of nature – most of us do! It’s important that you fit both shoes on and make sure that your bigger foot is comfortable.
Stand, while trying the shoes out, you’ll be on your feet when you’re running, so make sure they are comfortable.
Would You Buy A Car Without Test Driving It First?
The best tests for compatibility are running uphill or around a corner, so use the treadmill in the shop or run around the shop at least a couple of times.
Your feet should not slip around in the shoes, if they are loose now imagine what they’ll feel like once you’ve worn them in!
There’s nothing more uncomfortable than your toes feeling squished inside a shoe, so make sure there is enough room in the toe box for your little piggies.
Knot Snug?
Women tend to have narrower feet and sometimes finding running shoes that fit snugly can be challenging – girls, you know what I mean!
Buy a shoe that has a narrower heel and risk having a toe box with too little space.
The solution to this catch 22 is to always buy running shoes that fit your forefoot and use the simple ‘Runners Knot’ to ensure the heel part of your shoe fits snugly.
The Runners Knot
Fire The Fashionista In You
For this once it’s ok to ignore the fashion-conscious-you and that goes for you guys out there too!
Luckily nowadays you’re not forced to choose between fashion and function when it comes to running gear.
But I’m serious about the whole fashion-conscious thing; trust me, the last thing going through your mind at the mid-point in a race is how nice your feet look in your new shoes.
Stereotype
When it comes to your running shoes and their purpose, stick to running. Your shoes are made for a specific purpose and using them to play a different sport could see you end up with damage to yourself and your shoes.
Squeaky Clean
Caring for your running shoes by treating them well, and ensuring that you clean them after running in wet or muddy conditions, will ensure that you get the most out of their lifespan.
If your shoes become wet; stuff them with crumpled up newspaper and dry them away from direct heat. Avoid washing them with detergents and NEVER put them in the washing machine.
A Long And Fruitful Life
Like with everything in life, there are no guarantees – your running shoes’ lifespan will depend on many factors such as; your foot-plant, your weight, the surface you train on and the general care you afford them.
It’s your running shoe’s midsole that determines when it’s time is up and not the outer sole like your regular shoes.
If you’re experiencing a sinking feeling – sinking into your shoe – that is, or if you notice permanent flattening of the foam then it’s time for a new pair of running shoes.
Breaking Them In
I don’t mean breaking them in like you would regular shoes – your running shoes should feel comfortable right from the word go.
By breaking in I mean wearing them around the house for a few days, this will ensure your foot shapes the inner to fit more snugly.
Gung Ho
Lastly, if you ignore everything else I’ve said, please don’t ignore this;Start of going on short runs with your new running shoes and allow yourself some time to get used to the new feel even if you’re running with the newer model of the same shoe.Don’t go all gung ho and run a race in brand new running shoes, try wearing them for at least 10 runs before a race day.
Finally, with these tips in your arsenal, hopefully your running shoes will bring you much joy and your running hours will be problem and blister free!