Run in the Right Shoes

GALTime.com

By Life Love Shopping's Rachel K for GalTime.com

Do you have the right shoes?
Do you have the right shoes?

Run Forest Run! As the movie character Forest Gump learned, the shoes can make a difference and propel you to run across the country and back. Whether you run marathons, triathlons, jog outside, or on the treadmill at the gym for 10 minutes, wearing the right shoes is crucial. It will protect your feet and prevent injuries.

FOOT TYPE AND RUNNING STYLE

Depending on your foot type and running style some shoes may work better for you than someone else. Many specialty running stores will record you running and help you find the best shoes. But if you don't have access to that, podiatrist Kate Schimka, DPM, AACFAS, LUHS suggests the following tips when selecting a running shoe:

  • Shop later in the day. "Feet swell throughout the day, so they are larger in the evening."

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  • Bring or wear your old gym shoes. "The sales associate will look for excessive wear in different areas of the shoe. Wear on the inside of the shoe indicates overpronation or a flat foot. These runners benefit from motion-control shoes, which absorb the impact along the inside of the foot. Excessive wear on the outside of the shoe indicates underpronation. These runners do well with a cushion shoe. Uniform wear across the sole of the shoe reflects normal wear. These runners benefit from a neutral or stability shoe."

  • Don't forget your inserts. "If you own orthotics, bring them with you to test in the shoes."

  • Make sure both feet are measured. "One foot may be larger than the other, so purchase your shoes according to the larger size."

  • Wear the socks you plan to use while running. "Avoid 100 percent cotton socks. Opt for those with wicking capabilities that remove moisture from the feet."

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  • Don't get caught up in the appearance of the shoe. "Avoid buying a pair based solely on the brand or style."

  • Check the fit. "The most important step to finding the right shoe is to check the toe box for adequate room. Your thumbnail should fit between the end of the big toe and the tip of the shoe. The shoe also should fit snugly across the widest part of the foot, and the heel should not slide around as you walk."

  • Take a test drive. "Run or jog in the shoes on a treadmill or on a running path in the store to make sure they fit comfortably."

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