No matter if you are just starting to pursue your fresh zeal for the running sport or if you already consider yourself as being on the runner's scrap heap, it is very important to know what to regard before purchasing your next new pair of shoes. The right shoes on your feet are not only very likely to positively contribute to your personal performance but also to reduce the risk of injuries.
Now, you may think "I am running in this particular pair of shoes since more than 2 years and I do not see the need to invest my hard-earned money in a new pair". Please note that ill-fitting or just worn-out shoes are more often than not one of the leading causes of injury which could have easily been avoided with the right pair and condition of shoes. The last thing we want for you is that you need to stop running or maybe even training for your next great event which might even be the Kenya Wildlife Marathon 2015. 2015 is full of amazing opportunities to run all around the globe.
Follow these simple steps before making the next purchase-decision and we assure you that your next pair will be the pair you need:
1. See the experts
Avoid searching for your next pair of running shoes in any random department store. Hit up a shop that focuses on selling equipment for runners and consult with their responsible salesperson. He or she can observe your running technique and behavior in order to help you to find the pair of shoes that offer your feet the needed support.
2. Renew your shoes on a regular basis
As a rule of thumb, you should renew your shoes every 300 - 500 miles. Tip: Note down the date of the purchase and keep it in your training log.
3. Do not cheap out
It is a fact that new proper shoes might cost up to $150 but in many cases, the high price also represents good quality. As already mentioned above, your personal salesperson will definitely be happy to help you finding the right - not overpriced! - pair of shoes. Also try to see it from this perspective: Whatever your new shoes cost, it is very likely to be less than the time and money you would spent for seeing the doctor due to an injury which could have been avoided with the right pair of shoes.
4. Choosing the right size is the alpha and omega
Please mind that as your body is constantly changing and that your feet are also a part of your body! Hence, you may think you know your size but it is highly recommended to let your feet being measured each time you buy a new pair of shoes - especially running shoes. Not only your body and feet are changing but one model's fit can be very different from another's. Thus, you should have your feet measured later in the day because this is when they are the biggest.
Here is what you do when searching for the right pair: Try both shoes on and stand up. Now, check if there is not less than a thumbnail's space between the shoe's tip and your longest toe's end. It is recommended to take them for a little test run around the shop, on the sidewalk or on a treadmill. You would not buy a car you have never driven, right?
A rough guide: Many runners end up getting a running shoe that is a half size larger than their street shoes. Why? Because the extra room in the shoe allows your toes to move forward with each stride and your foot to flex properly during the run.
5. Don't shop by price or fashion
Do not try to be a trendsetter. We are all aware of that fact that there is a tremendous amount of different styles, colors, shapes etc. out on the market. However, when it comes to picking your running shoes, do not pay too much attention to their price (as explained above) and looks. It must be obvious that a "fast-looking" does not necessarily make you faster and that a running shoe cannot cure any injuries (it can only help preventing them). Shoes also do not help losing weight. You running in them helps you losing weight! So, do not believe in all this marketing-humbug, the shoe for anyone has not been invented, yet! There is only a shoe that suits your foot and offers it the needed support. This is exactly the shoe you need to find! Try on as many different pairs as possible in order to gain a comprehensive overview.
6. Bring your old pair
Take along your old pair of running shoes, your gym socks and any other inserts that you have been using so that you get realistic evaluation of how good the new pair will fit your "feet in action".
Hopefully, this article could help broaden your knowledge a little bit and we are very excited to see you on the race track in the right pair of shoes.
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