How to find the right running shoe for you.

In comparison to a lot of other sports, running has very little required equipment but there has always been a very high amount of interest in this one piece of equipment; Running Shoes. A quick Google on what type of trainer you should use when running can often lead you down a rabbit hole that makes the choice even more confusing and sometimes daunting.

Even though many recreational runners believe the choice of footwear can make or break an injury developing there are many more important aspects; especially training habits; that have a larger role to play.

But with that in mind; a wise man once said; ‘Running shoes don’t matter until they do’.

So below are some tips to help you when finding your next pair of trainers.

Fit

[if !supportLists] - Making sure the shoe is the right fit for you is the perfect start on the way to a comfortable trainer

[if !supportLists] - [endif]Different brands of shoes have different shapes and widths for the same shoe size so make sure

you try them on (ideally in the afternoon when your feet are at their biggest)

[if !supportLists] - [endif]Be able to wiggle your toes, ensure there is 1cm space from end of longest toe to end of shoe and

make sure there is enough width across the ball of your foot with no overhang

Comfort

[if !supportLists] - [endif]Running shoes range between being very light and minimal to styles with large, thick midsoles and this

will affect what you will experience when wearing them

[if !supportLists] - [endif]Some runners prefer lots of cushioning and a soft feel while others prefer being able to feel

the ground when they run

[if !supportLists] - [endif]Test out running shoes in store (ideally on a treadmill) and see what suits your needs and

what you find comfortable

[if !supportLists] - [endif]Go as light as you feel comfortable in

Style

[if !supportLists] - [endif]The age old debate around ‘pronation control’ in footwear and the science that goes into this area

is a continued area of contention and one that you shouldn’t spend too much time thinking about

if you’re not injured

[if !supportLists] - [endif]If you’re currently experiencing a continued niggle or injury consult a podiatrist and they will be able

to provide some direction on a trainer that may alter the load passing through this area while being rehabilitated.

[if !supportLists] - [endif]As a general rule, newer runners are more likely to require a more structured shoe as this will be

more similar to the more structured heeled shoes we wear from day-to-day while gradually increasing

your running loads

[if !supportLists] - [endif]If you’ve had success with a particular type of trainer; continue down this similar path as most brands

will have comparable types

For more information, call our office on 6272 4000 or click here to make a booking.