There can be a lot of factors to consider when you’re wondering how to choose a running shoe that’s right for you. With all the choices out there, it can be hard to know which is best for your specific needs. There are a few guidelines we recommend that can help lead you toward the perfect pair.
First, we recommend a professional fitting based on the characteristics of your feet including size, arch, and other considerations. We have fitting specialists on staff who are able to observe you walk and determine the areas in which you need support. Based on this information, we can narrow down the selection of shoes to those that will best serve you.
It’s important to keep in mind what activity you will be using your new shoes for. Do you plan on just walking around the neighborhood or running errands in them? Or are you an athlete looking for the best shoe for your physical activity? This plays a big role in the selection process. If you consistently participate in high-impact activities such as running, you may need more support or cushion in your shoe.
If you have any orthotic issues and require inserts, be sure to bring those inserts with you while trying on shoes. These can change the fit of the shoe substantially, so it’s important to know how the new shoes feel with the orthotic inserts in them.
One of the most important factors is comfort. Do the shoes feel great when you slip them on? Do they require a breaking-in period? After purchasing your new pair of shoes, be sure to wear them around the house for at least 24-hours and see how they feel. You want to make sure you are comfortable above all else. The wrong fit can cause or exacerbate foot problems, so it’s crucial your feet feel great in your new shoes.
A simple checklist to follow when purchasing new shoes could be as follows:
- Have a specialist perform a fit analysis and determine the correct shoe for you based on your foot’s specific characteristics
- Shop for shoes during the afternoon — your foot naturally expands with use during the day.
- Walk around in the shoes as you try them on. Make note of how they feel (Are they comfortable? Do they have enough support?)
- If you wear orthotic inserts, make sure to bring them with you and see how the shoe feels with them inserted.
- After purchasing, wear your new shoes around the house for at least 24-hours to make sure they are the right fit.
There are many factors to consider when selecting a new running shoe. With so many shoes to choose from, it can be hard to know which is best for your specific needs. We hope these guidelines will help lead you toward the perfect pair, but our best recommendation is to stop by Bikes Palm Beach for a professional fit analysis and personalized recommendations based on your specific needs.