10 Tips for Choosing Athletic Shoes
Proper-fitting shoes make all the difference whether you walk or run.
Running and walking are among the purest, most natural forms of exercise around. With newfangled innovations like Freon-filled mid soles and pump-it-up tongues, it's knowing which shoes to buy that seems to require an advanced degree.
Choose the wrong athletic shoes and you could end up lying on the couch nursing shin splints or aching heels instead of enjoying a brisk walk or run. While most specialty sport-shoe stores have knowledgeable staff to guide you, you’ll be a few steps ahead of the game armed with some basic knowledge about your feet and their specific needs. Here is some expert advice to heed before buying new footwear:
1 Don't make shoes multi task. Walking shoes are
stiffer; running shoes are more flexible, with extra cushioning to handle greater
impact.
2 Feet
change, so measure your foot frequently. You should get
checked about twice a year
3 Feet swell over the course of the day, they also
expand while you run or walk, so shoes should fit your feet when they're at their
largest.
4 Bring your own socks the ones you wear while
running or walking. If you wear orthotics, bring thos too. Shoes need to fit with
the orthotic inside.
5 Don't believe in breaking in. Running and
walking shoes should feel comfortable right away.
6 Use the rule of thumb. There should be about
3/8-1/2 inch between the front of your big toe and the end of the shoe (about a
thumb's width). The heel should fit relatively tightly; your heel should not
slip out when you walk. The upper part of the shoe (which goes over the top of
your foot) should be snug and secure, and not too tight anywhere.
7 Understand the bells and whistles. Clear inserts
filled with gel, Freon, or air, provide extra shock absorption, as do those
springy-looking things. These features are especially good for people who tend
to get heel pain but not good for people whose ankles twist easily, as shoes
with extra cushioning tend to provide less traction.
8 Some shoes allow you to pump up the tongue,
which lets people with difficult-to-fit feet achieve a more customized fit.
9 Don't over- or underpay. Good-quality running
and walking shoes are fairly pricey and usually worth it. But you'll pay a premium
for super-fashionable styles or those associated with a celebrity and they
won't be any better for your feet.
10 Know when to replace them. The average pair of
running shoes should be replaced after about 350-400 miles of use, Once the
back of the sole is worn out or the shoe feels uncomfortable or less
supportive, it's time to take those footsies shopping again.
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