Over 621 million people worldwide run as a form of exercise. It’s not hard to see why. Running outdoors is free, a high-calorie burner, and something you can do with no equipment. The only thing you need to become a runner is a determined spirit and a great pair of running shoes.
Choosing the right pair of kicks to help you conquer your runs can be difficult, though. We’re here to help make the process a little easier for you. Keep reading to learn how to find the top performance running shoes on the market today.
Consider Your Foot Conditions
Just as no two feet are the same, no two running shoes are the same either. Conditions like plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and even flat-footedness can change how shoes feel and fit.
If you have plantar fasciitis, you need to find shoes that’ll help minimize foot and heel pain. You need a pair of kicks that have cushioning and support in all the right places.
Flat-footed runners need shoes that reduce overpronation to protect their feet. Some runners with flat feet need shoes with arch support, while others prefer options with more cushioning. You may need to try several pairs on to see which work best with your anatomy.
Consult the experts at Sports Performance Advantage for help finding the right shoes for metatarsalgia.
You’ll also want to consider the width and shape of your feet before choosing a pair of shoes.
Determine What Kind of Running You’ll Be Doing
There are three main types of running shoes. The kind you’ll need depends on what kind of running you do.
Trail running shoes have lugs on the sole to provide traction and grip on unpredictable trails. The upper is extra durable to ensure it won’t snag on debris.
Everyday running shoes are a versatile pick for people who do different types of running. They’re flexible and cushioned for a comfortable ride. They’re perfect for running on pavement and packed surfaces.
Lightweight shoes are great for runners who participate in a lot of races. They’re not as durable as the other types, but they’re perfect for wearing to get your next PR.
Understand the Lingo
There’s a lot of running shoe lingo you need to understand before you pick your next pair.
Heel drop refers to the difference in height between the heel and the toe. The drop will affect how your foot hits the ground. Most running shoes have 10mm or higher drops.
The lower the drop, the more work your Achilles tendon will need to do.
Stack height refers to how much material there is between your foot and your running surface. Shoes with low stack heights are ideal for runners who like feeling the ground and not just shoe cushioning.
Shoe weight is an important consideration for runners. Most people prefer to wear lighter shoes on runs, especially those who do many road races.
Heel counter refers to the reinforcement in the heel of the shoe. Its job is to lock your heel in place and provide rearfoot stability. You can find this common feature in some of the best workout shoes for women, often used also for running
Find Running Shoes to Uplevel Your Performance
We hope our guide will make choosing your next pair of running shoes an absolute breeze. The right kicks can transform every run you take, so don’t take this decision lightly.
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