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In the US, around 50 million of us participate in running or jogging. All you need is a good pair of shoes and ground to run on, and you’re set!
Speaking of shoes, they can really make or break your running experience. No matter if you’re a beginner or seasoned runner, having the right running shoes can make it feel like you’re jogging on clouds!
But with so many choices out there, it can be difficult to determine which ones are right for your needs and budget.
If you’re having a tough time picking running shoes, then you’re in luck. Here are 7 factors you should consider so you get the best shoes possible!
1. Consider the Type of Running You’ll Do
There are many activities you can wear running shoes for. Not only can you wear them for running and jogging, but you can also use them for hiking or even climbing!
And even if you’re a jogger or runner, your running profile can still vary drastically from another runner’s. For example, you might only run 15 miles a week on a treadmill while another runner does 50 miles a week on the track.
For the average runner, we’d suggest getting everyday running shoes. But if you’re racing, choose lightweight running shoes, such as Human Race sneakers.
2. Also Consider Your Running Style
What makes each of us unique is how we walk and run. Our gait is truly unique; you might strike the ground with your forefoot while someone else strikes with the heel first.
If you’re in the former category, you’ll want to get running shoes that have a lot of cushioning in the front. And if you’re in the latter category, then you’ll want to buy shoes with more cushion in the back.
Part of this consideration should include your arch. Many people have flatter arches, which means you’ll need more curved running shoes to keep you comfortable and injury-free.
3. Try Shoes on at the End of the Day
Did you know that your feet swell as the day goes on? Your feet also swell a bit when you run. So if you try on shoes in the morning, they might not fit so well, especially if you don’t usually run in the mornings.
To get a more accurate fitting for shoes, try to go shopping towards the end of the day. At the very least, go in the afternoon after lunch, as your feet will have swelled at least a little bit since waking.
4. Bring Your Old Running Shoes In
If you already have an old pair of running shoes that you loved wearing, then this will help immensely!
When you go shopping in a brick-and-mortar store, bring them along with you. You can then show the salesperson what suited you and they can help you pick out similar pairs. They can also examine your old running shoes closer to see what your running style is like and make further suggestions based on that.
When you have a knowledgeable salesperson helping you, you can also ask any questions that come to mind while you’re trying out different pairs of running shoes.
5. Squeeze All Around
You might’ve found a great pair of running shoes, but you won’t know for sure unless you do the squeeze test.
Run your hands along the perimeter of the shoes and squeeze as you go along. In the back, there should be around 1 thumb’s width of space between your foot and the shoe. And when you’re squeezing up front, your toes should still feel nice and comfortable in the toe box.
Even without squeezing, it shouldn’t feel like the shoe is suffocating your foot. If it does, you might want to try sizing up, especially since your feet might swell even more as you run.
6. Don’t Skimp
As with many other things in life, you get what you pay for. Is it really worth it to pay $20 for a pair of stiff running shoes that have you in pain after 10 minutes of running? Worse yet, it might cause you some serious medical problems in the future that cost big money to fix.
For a decent pair of running shoes, expect to pay at least $100. A great pair will cost around $250, but it’ll fit like a glove and last you for years, so it’s a good investment!
7. Make Sure There’s a Good Return Policy
You can do everything right to ensure your new pair of running shoes is perfect for you. But sometimes, they just don’t feel right when you wear them for an actual run.
In case this happens, you want a good return policy so you can get your money back and try another pair.
When you’re buying shoes online, it’s extra vital that you check the return policy and make sure it’s a good one! You won’t have the luxury of trying on the shoes in person, so if they don’t fit you well, you need to be able to send them back and most importantly, get your money back.
Either way, you want to make sure you know the return policy like the back of your hand. You don’t want to accidentally miss out on money back by a day or two, after all.
Picking Running Shoes Is Easy With Our Tips
Picking running shoes can be a difficult decision, especially if you’re buying them online. But by following our tips, you’re sure to get a pair of running shoes that will fit you like a glove. And they won’t cost an arm and a leg either!
So whether you’ve been needing some new running shoes or you’re just getting started with this new sport, keep our advice in mind. Our info will guide you to hours of comfortable running!
If you want to read more about sports, check out our other blog posts now!
