Running Shoes: How to Choose the Best Fit for You
Running is a demanding exercise that requires you to have the right gear. Not only do you need the right clothes for running, but shoes as well. When choosing running shoes, it is vital to make sure that the shoes fit perfectly. Below is a guide for ensuring that you select the best-fitting running shoes.
Use the thumb rule
This is one of the easiest tricks you can use to ensure that your running shoes fit perfectly. All you need to do is leave a thumbs width at the front of the shoe. The space has to be measured from your toe.
The aim of doing this is to ensure that there is adequate space to accommodate foot spread. This is important for running shoes because when you run downhill, your foot tends to move forward. When this happens, your feet tend to swell, and you may encounter blisters. The space will help keep your foot from hitting the end front of the shoe.
Test to ensure that there is no pinching or sliding
Something else you can do to ensure that the shoe fits correctly is to check for sliding and pinching. Here, you would have to wear the shoes to check if they wrap comfortably around your foot. If the shoe pinches at any point or feels sloppy, it is a sign that you have the wrong size. Additionally, ensure that your feet are centered on the shoe platform. This will protect your feet from getting hurt when you are running or exercising.
Running shoes: do not neglect the width
One of the biggest mistakes people make when choosing shoes is considering the length and neglecting the width. Note that some shoes are designed to accommodate narrow feet while others are best suited for wide feet. Some brands go as far as to carry extensive and narrow-size options. When choosing the best-fitting running shoes, you should pay as much attention to the width as you do the length.
Note that the widths are usually represented in letters instead of sizes. Choosing tight shoes will cause your feet to swell. On the other hand, selecting wide shoes may cause running accidents as your feet are not comfortably wrapped in the shoes.
Try the shoes at the end of the day
Feet tend to swell while you run or after going through a hectic day. Therefore, a pair of shoes that fits in the morning may not fit perfectly in the evening. For this reason, it would be wise to try the shoes at the end of the day, in the evening or afternoon, to ensure that it still fits perfectly. More often than not, retailers will allow you to return the shoes after a specified period even if you go home with them.
Naturally, you have to meet some conditions to do this. This means that you have the chance to go home with the shoes and try them at the end of the day. However, you must be careful not to choose a huge pair. Ensure the shoes fit perfectly at all times of the day.
In addition to getting the right fit, below are some factors you may want to consider when shopping for running shoes
Ensure that the shoes are running-specific- the market features a wide range of sporty shoes. However, not all of these shoes are designed for running. Running-specific shoes are designed to prevent injuries and withstand the repetitive motion of the shoes. The best running shoes are also usually designed with cushioning to help with shock absorption.
Ensure you get the right type- running shoes come in a wide range of designs and types. There are everyday running shoes, lightweight, and trail running shoes. When picking the right type, you must consider the running you participate in. This will help you make the best choice. For instance, lightweight running shoes may not withstand trail running.
Consider the materials- you must also ensure to get the most comfortable and durable materials on the market.
Final word
Choosing the best-fitting running shoes for men or women is the most important thing you can do when shopping. This will help you prevent injuries and improve your running experience.
