Running Shoes.com

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How to pick a shoe?

	New Runners: First of all, congratulations on taking up a very healthy (both for the body and the mind) hobby!
	Do you know how high your arches are? Runners with high arches generally are happier and healthier in a Neutral shoe type. Medium arched runners generally do better in the Stability shoe type. People with flat arches tend to stay healthy with shoes in the Motion Control shoe type. If you are unsure of your arch height the Stability shoe type is the safest choice.
	We always suggest starting out slowly on your running program, mixing walking and running during your runs and adding a higher percentage of running as you adjust to this new activity. Please do not pick shoes just based on colors. Only after you have narrowed your choices down to the correct shoe type do you consider the colors. We know it can be difficult but your body will thank you.

	My current shoes did a good job: If a shoe is working for you (feels good and no injuries) strongly consider replacing with the same shoe. If the shoe has been discontinued find the replacement shoe as it is most likely the next best shoe for you. If you really want to try a new shoe you should consider a shoe from the same type of shoe ( Motion Control, Cushioned Stability, Stability or Neutral) that has worked for you.

	My last shoes were not comfortable: If you are suffering from numbness, blisters or black toenails you might need a larger size or wider width. If the shoes are bulging in the forefoot you might be in need of a wider width.

	I had discomfort or injury with last pair: Often times the aches and pains will go away after switching to a new pair of shoes as most runners wear their shoes well past the life of the shoe. You must be careful with any injury, if pain persists after cycles of rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medicines you should consult your doctor or physical therapist.
	If the offending shoes are under the 350 �� 500 mile threshold they should be reviewed for signs of trouble. On the outsole check the wear pattern in the forefoot. Reading the wear pattern can be tricky but you are most likely pronating efficiently if the majority of the wear is behind the second and third toes. In this case you should change shoes but remain in the same category. If the wear is at the big toe to the edge of the shoe you need to look for a more stable shoe. A wear pattern on the lateral side of the shoe indicates the need for a less stable shoe.


Shoe Types Defined

	Neutral: Shoes designed for biomechanically efficient runners who do not need active support inside their shoes. Neutral shoes do not use a medial post.

	Lightweight Trainer: Shoes designed for racing and speed work. This type of shoe generally has no medial support (although there some exceptions). If you use these shoes for daily training beware of costs of the light weight (less cushion, less stability and less durable).

	Motion Control: Shoes with the maximum amount of active medial support to control severe overpronation.

	Racing: As the name indicates they are for racing oftentimes referred to as racing flats. These shoes are exceptionally light and have minimal amount of cushion and support. Studies have show racing flats can lower times by 4 seconds per mile. Ideal for distances below 10K (1/2 Marathon and Marathon runners need to use caution and judge use by past injury history).

	Trail: Shoes which feature aggressive traction, water resistance, extra upper protection and generally darker color scheme. The more hard core trail shoes will have a lower profile for added stability on uneven trails and extra forefoot protection to prevent stone bruises.

	Stability: Sometimes referred to as support shoes, are designed for mild to moderate overpronators. Stability shoes provide medial support to slow down pronation. The majority of runners can run successfully in stability shoes.

	Cushioned Stability: A stability shoe (see above) with more advanced cushioning and stability, generally considered a high-end stability shoe.

	Cross-Trainer: Non-running shoe trainer that works well for sports with lateral movement or those that necessitate a stable platform for heavy lifting.

	Walking: Walking shoes are aimed towards the fitness walker who wants the varied stability and comfort of a running shoe but with the conservative visual appeal of a walking shoe.


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