Around 50 million Americans participate in some form of jogging or running, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association. This number includes about 18 million people who compete in road races. There are many benefits to running, including physical, health, mental, and social benefits.
Whether you are an experienced runner or looking to get started, it’s essential to have the right equipment. Thankfully, running doesn’t require very much specialized equipment. All you really need is a good pair of running shoes.
In this blog post, we will share useful information on how to choose the best running shoes. Make sure you read this article before you go out and buy running shoes.
How Much Cushion Do You Need?
There are two aspects of cushioning that you should be aware of. The first is the firmness of the foam and the second is the thickness of the shoe material.
For the plushest feel to your running shoes, we recommend that you opt for maximum cushion. These will have the thicket padding in the midsoles and are great for people who run long distances.
While popular, maximum cushion isn’t for everyone. Other options include moderate cushion, minimal cushion, and barefoot shoes. The latter is for people who prefer to have an almost barefoot feeling when running.
Click here to find where to buy Hoka shoes, which are perfect for runners looking for maximal cushioning.
Choose Support Features That Fits Your Needs
We all have different biomechanics and it’s important to find the level of foot support that helps to bolster your running gait. There are 3 main categories of running shoe support:
- Neutral shoes
- Stability shoes
- Motion-control shoes
Stability shoes have devices that help to control pronation, which occurs when the foot rolls inward. They often feature guide rails that control side-to-side motion.
Motion-control shoes are the most stable option, designed to counter more severe overpronation. Neutral shoes, meanwhile, are recommended for runners with supination, which is when the foot tends to roll outward.
Tips for Buying the Perfect Running Shoes
Before buying running shoes, get both of your feet measured as foot size can change over time. Buying shoes in the evening time is also recommended, given that feet swell during the day. Doing this helps to avoid buying shoes that are too small.
Try on both shoes and see how they feel while you are walking. Running shoes do not need to be “broken in” so they should feel comfortable to wear straight away. It’s also helpful to learn some lacing techniques, such as window lacing and the runner’s loop, when starting out with new shoes.
In terms of the lifespan of running shoes, a general rule of thumb is that they will last for between 400 to 500 miles.
How to Choose the Best Running Shoes
The above information will help you to find the most suitable running shoes for your needs. Remember, when you go to purchase running shoes, it’s not just about how they look. The feel and support that running shoes offer are far more important.
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