Unfortunately, even with proper cushioning, your shoes will eventually wear out as well. Rubber cushioning toughens up through time and loses much of its spring. You will have to be sensitive to this. If your running shoes gradually lose their shock absorbing abilities, go purchase a new pair to avoid injuring yourself.

Consider your foot type when choosing shoes. There are three types of feet – flat, normal, and high-arched. You can test your feet for type by using what is called a wet test. Wet your feet and step on a dry surface. If it shows the whole of your feet – or a typical flat footed look, then you have flat feet. Normal arches are when you see a slight C shaped arc from the balls for your feet to the heels. High-arched feet have a pronounced C-arch running from ball to heel; the imprint of such feet look as if the balls and the heels were connected by a tiny piece.

Those with flat feet will need shoes that have greater control, since flat-footer runners have difficulty running with good form. High-arched runners have trouble with balance because they teeter so. They also are prone to straining their plantar fascia. They will need well-cushioned shoes to keep balance.

Also, when choosing shoes, make sure you do not rush your choice. Take a few minutes per shoe to determine cushioning, comfort, traction, and other quality oriented observations. It is also advisable to choose shoes at the end of the day, when your feet are at their largest. This helps avoid choosing shoes that are suddenly too tight when you start running (and have blood engorge your feet).

Never underestimate the value of the running shoe. It will be your most treasured companion during your running experience. Never overestimate its lifespan as well. After a good full year of running service, you should retire your shoe and purchase a new one.

Pages: 1 2