Running shoes today are incredibly complex pieces of modern technology. The simple shoes today may make use of more than a dozen materials when manufactured. Even the most modest shoes come equipped with what may seem like space age technologies.
Purchasing running shoes can become quite a difficult affair with all the complexity surrounding them. This article breaks down this complexity factors into five parts. Knowing the characteristics of these five factors will make it easier for you to choose your next running shoe. Read on it won't take more than 5 minutes of your time.
Foot Type
When talking about foot types we generally refer to the arch height. The arch height can range from very high to almost completely non-existent (flat-footed). For the purpose of identifying shoes best suited for you it is best to determine if you are flat-footed, high arched or in-between. This is one of the most important factors that will determine what shoes you need.
Surface Type
The surface you will run on will also determine what type of shoes you need. Shoes meant for cross country for example can be extremely heavy and bulky when used on a running track. Vice-versa shoes meant for the track will get obliterated in the rugged terrain of trails. Knowing where you will run is essential in choosing the correct running shoe.
Performance Level
Generally speaking a newbie runner will have vastly different shoe needs than your local track star. The beginning runner should not be tempted to purchase shoes that are meant for more serious runners because they generally provide less protection. The reason for this is that experienced runners need less rubber in between their foot and the pavement because they have already developed stronger muscles.
Mileage
Among running shoes there are those that are more durable than others. Usually there is a tradeoff between plush softness and durability. The more durable a shoe is the less comfortable it will be. If you run dozens of miles a day you might want to opt for a more durable shoe or else you will be finding those soft cushions on your soles disintegrating after less than a hundred miles. Try to plan out your normal running route and estimate how much distance you run. If you run more than the average runner runs then be prepared to get yourself a harder shoe.
Budget
There is a very alarming trend with people getting into running these days. That is, the focus on gear and stuff instead of the act of running itself. It seems that people just run as an excuse to use their latest running gear that they think are high tech and flashy.
It is really hard to blame these people because of whole industry trying to entice runners with all these cool gadgets. But it is best for people to go into running with the proper reasons and best leave the fancy stuff for later on. This brings us to the budget when choosing shoes.
Some people immediately choose the most expensive shoes in the store. Thinking the world owes them only the best. While others cheap out and find 10 dollar sneakers or worse hunt for used shoes. Try and decide on a budget. A reasonable pair that you can start with can cost anywhere from to 0 US Dollars.
A bonus for those wanting to really start out cheap is old type shoes with a flat sole. Like the ones you remember during the early 1980s. They may be harder to run on without all the fancy technology but their simplicity will strengthen your foot which is very important when just starting out.
Choosing the best pair of running shoes is a complex task but by informing yourself on the five factors above it can be much easier. Next time you decide to run write down notes on the above mentioned criteria. It will make you it so much easier to choose the best product for your foot.
