Global Sports: Important Features to Note when Purchasing Running Shoe

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Important Features to Note when Purchasing Running Shoe

By Richelle Medrano


Since there are various designs of running shoes sold in the market, it is then very essential for runners to know what features to look for in a running shoe that will allow optimum running performance. It is not unknown that running can put stress on certain areas of the body. Having the appropriate pair of running shoes is important to avoid any injury that might incur while on training.

Foot type is the primary feature that a runner should know when buying running shoes. The foot type is actually based on the arch observed between the toes and the ball of the feet. There are three types of feet. Evident presence of arch on the foot means that the runner has high-arched foot type. On the other hand, no visible arch or very low arch means the runner has flat foot type. Runners with neutral foot type belong in the middle of low and high-arched.

On the other hand, you will also need to find out more about your pronation style. Pronation is also known as the normal rolling of feet as they land on the ground. However, pronation problems may occur on flat and high-arched feet. These problems are called overpronation (foot rolls inward) and supination (foot rolls outward).

A runner's pronation style is very essential since this can greatly affect how the foot absorbs the impact produced as soon as it lands on the ground. Runners with problems in pronation tend to experience more running injuries when it is not paired with the correct running shoe category. As a result, you need to take note of the right category of your running shoe according to your foot type.

Running shoes are usually divided into three categories. This includes cushioning, motion-control and stability running shoes. You can determine which running shoe is right for you based on your foot type. Thus, you need to know whether you have flat, high-arched or neutral foot type through observation or the wet foot test.

There are also trained sales assistants that can help you when you buy at a specialty running shoe store. They can help you pick out the appropriate pair of running shoes based on your foot type.

In addition, another feature that you should consider when buying running shoes is its size. You should wear the correct running shoe size for your feet. However, take note that your feet increase in size after being exposed to heat and physical activity. Thus, you should get a shoe size that will not restrict foot movement. Your toes should be able to move inside your shoes.

Lastly, you need to determine whether your running shoes are built for road running, trail running or track running. This is important since several running shoes are equipped with materials that are designed to meet the demands of a certain running event. For instance, there may be thicker outsoles for trail running shoes than road running or track running.

Indeed, running shoes consists of several designs and styles. Hence, when buying a pair of running shoes, you should first take into consideration the important features required, as well as the overall quality of the running shoe produced. Runners should always keep in mind that a decent pair of running shoe will keep them away from running injuries.




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