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How to Pick Out Running Shoes*
Do not buy them from by mail order or the internet unless you've
worn the exact same shoe (including the size!) before!!!
With that said, here's why. Your feet are the foundation of not only your
sports, but the rest of your life, assuming you stay in motion! When you order
them 'sight unseen', you don't know if they fit right, or if they are a shoe
that fits your body mechanics or foot shape.
Don't assume that because a pair of ASICS 2130's fit Mr. Nechodom comfortably
that you should go buy a pair. The type of running you do, your bone structure
and the way your foot hits and leaves the ground is likely different from his.
Assuming that you'll be shopping for yourself (as opposed to having a shoe
expert help you select them), here is what you do:
- Go to a store that has a large selection of running shoes, both in brand
and in quality range.
- Find at least four pairs of shoes that you think will be the right size
and comfortable. As
much as you can, try to ignore the price, the brand or the fancy colors and
markings. You're running track, not modeling!
- With the shoes on, bend your knee until the front of your knees are right
above your toes. Have someone check your shoes. There should be about 3/4
of the width of a thumb between the end of your big toe and
the
end of
the shoe.
- They should also have some flexibility in the toe. You don't want
to have them keep your foot rigid, otherwise you'd wear full-shank boots
or two by
fours!
- Put on the left shoe from one pair and the right shoe from the other.
- Stand
around for a few minutes and try to determine which one is more comfortable.
- To
be sure, run back and forth in the store. Your heels should not slip
in the shoe, and your feet shouldn't flop onto the ground. You're not
a duck! If they tell you to stop running in the store, then they clearly
don't cater to runners. Give them their shoes back and find a different place
to shop.
- Take off the shoe that was not as comfortable, replace it with a shoe
from the next pair, then compare those two.
- If possible, have someone watch you run to be sure that the shoe allows
your heel to plant slightly on the outside and roll slightly inward as you
complete your step.
- Continue this comparison until you have found the most comfortable pair
of shoes. Be sure you try on both the left and right shoe from the most comfortable
pair.
- Buy this pair and memorize what brand, model and size they are so you can
get the same ones next time.
There is plenty of information on the web that goes into more detail about
shoe selection. Here's a start:
http://www.epodiatry.com/running-shoes.htm
If you're having trouble picking out shoes that are comfortable, consider
going to a store that carries higher quality shoes. Beyond this, see me. I
can recommend specific people that can help you better.
*I do not claim to be an expert. I have worn running shoes
for a lot of years and have had great ones and poor ones, so I have experience.
Problems with feet should be diagnosed by a podiatrist, not a track coach!
Questions: E-mail me: DanN@dayton.wednet.edu 