Running is an amazing way to exercise. In fact, many people who start running as a way to get in shape quickly become addicted (like me). It can lead to following a half marathon training plan and spending hours outside. It’s an excellent habit to get into. People tend to flock to it because it is an inexpensive way to work out. After all, you don’t need anything but some running shoes.

However, this is where it can get complicated. Choosing the wrong shoes can cause you a lot of issues. It can even turn you off on running, which is not a good thing. With the right shoe choice, you should be able to feel comfortable and happy as you run. With that in mind, here are some tips to choosing your running shoes.

Four Tips for Choosing the Right Running Shoes

1. Buy Shoes Made for Running

It is important that you buy shoes made for running. Tennis shoes or athletic shoes designed for other sports just won’t cut it. Running shoes are designed specifically for the movement of running. They are created to stand up to the stress running puts them under. If you choose a different style of shoes, you will likely pay for it in foot pain and other issues.

2. Buy Based on Feel, Not Features

It is easy to want to get the coolest looking shoes with the best features, but you really should make your choice based on how the shoes feel on your feet. Make sure to try them on both feet, if possible. Walk around. Bounce a little. Maybe try a little jog. Make sure they don’t slip or feel too tight. You need to make sure there is a little room in the toes, so they don’t feel squished.

Another quick note is to buy shoes made for your gender. There will be differences in fit and style between women’s running shoes and men’s running shoes. Choosing correctly will just help you with comfort in the end.

3. Do Some Research

If you know of specific problems that you have, like shin splints, then doing your research into the different shoe styles can be helpful. You can learn a lot from reading reviews and getting insight from other runners who have the same problems as you. However, just because a shoe is perfect for someone else does not mean that it will be perfect for you. Take anything you hear with a grain of salt and make your own final decision.

4. Learn About Your Feet

Everyone has a specific way they step on their feet. Some people step more on the outside, while others step more on the inside. You should know about your arch, too. Having an understanding of your foot will help you when looking for shoes. You will see shoes offer different levels and types of support. Choose the shoe that matches your foot. If you aren’t sure, then go for a neutral shoe that won’t offer support in a place you don’t need it. Too much support is just as bad as too little support.

These considerations are all important when choosing your new running shoes. In the end, you want to choose shows that you can afford and that are also comfortable.

Which running shoe is your favourite? 
How did you choose your favourite running shoe?