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Running (cont.)

Medical Editor:

What are some other tips on buying running shoes?

  1. Find a reputable running-shoe store in your area, preferably one where the salespeople are runners.
  3. If the store is reputable, they'll let take the shoes outside for a test run.
  4. Shoes should feel comfortable right away-there's no "breaking in" period. Don't buy shoes if seams or stitching can be felt. That can cause blisters, calluses or other injuries.
  5. Get fitted for running shoes at the end of the day when your foot is at its maximum size.
  6. Allow about one-half inch between the end of your longest toe and the shoe's end-with wiggle room for all toes.
  7. The shoe should be as wide as possible across the forefoot without allowing heel slippage. Experiment with the lacing to get a proper fit.
  8. When is it time for a new pair of shoes? Shoes may lose their cushioning after three to six months, depending on how often your wear them and how far you run. I suggest taking your current shoes to the shoe store and compare how they feel to new shoes. If you immediately notice the difference, then it's probably time for new shoes.
  9. I've had lots of personal success using trail-running shoes. Trail-runners are built for running on trails in the woods, over roots and rocks, so they have exceptional padding and support as well as wider grooves in the soles for gripping. Montrail and Vasque are two companies that make them. I recommend them for anyone, and especially so if you are a heavy runner (hard foot strike), or if you've had running injuries in the past.

Expect to pay anywhere from $60 to $120 dollars for a new pair of running shoes. Like anything, running shoes go on sale. So, look for the best prices when possible. Some of the popular brands, in no particular order, are: New Balance, Nike, Saucony, Asics, Brooks, and Reebok. There are more (see the shoe finder resources at end of the article), but what you need to do first is determine your foot type, then look for the shoe(s) that match it, then try the shoe on and see how it feels.

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 5/14/2015

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