Getting the right running shoes is the best thing you can do regardless of whether you are training for a major event or running for fun to get a better foundation. Having the right shoes makes running enjoyable and prevents injuries. Additionally, the right pair of shoes will fit well for your running style.
There are many running footwear options in the market. The major challenge that most runners face is selecting the right footwear. Therefore, it is important to consider some factors when purchasing running footwear. As well as the type of cushioning it will have, or if you’ll need special soles for a foot problem, like shoe insoles for plantar fasciitis or those specially designed for running. This guide aim at helping runners when they are selecting running footwear and making the final decision.
Factor to consider when selecting the right running footwear
When looking for perfect running footwear, it is vital to consider the below components.
Pitch (Heel height)
The running footwear industry has been transforming through the culture with a minimal explosion over the past. Lack of dorsiflexion (upward direction ankle joint movement) is an injury risk factor.
Therefore, it is essential to know through a lunge test. This will offer useful information to get the right shoes with a perfect drop or heel height. It is recommended that you carry out the lunge test in the presence of a healthcare professional who understands the test well.
The pitch, drop, or help height in the running footwear industry range from 0 to 14 mm.
Fit
It might sound basic, but fitness is one of the key features to consider when selecting running footwear. The upper fit or last fitting should be relatively snug. Too big running footwear will allow the foot to slide (shear), increasing the chances of getting blisters. Too small footwear, on the other side, will squeeze (add compression force) the foot and increase bone injury risk.
A poor fit can cause bruising underneath the nail plate or bleeding with dreaded toenails problems. Therefore, it is important to ask for advice from professional healthcare with experience in footwear problems.
Comfort and fit is the biggest part of running footwear selection. Always choose comfortable footwear to have a great experience on the race track.
Cushioning
In terms of cushioning, there is no correct answer. However, any material that can absorb impact between the floor and your foot is good. Different companies are investing in these materials to make their running footwear safe.
The main question you should be asking yourself is how much is enough and what is the minimum? Therefore, you need to consider cushioning when you are buying running shoes, cushioning relate to other factors like:
- Your body weight
- Advice from a epcialist
- Your Biomechanics
If you are a reasonable or moderate runner, you need to consider cushioning in the midsole while considering factors like fit and heel drop.
Motion control
Now footwear can be designed to lower limb and reduce mechanical forces hence reducing injury risks. The main purpose of pronation is to oversimply the foot’s contribution to more injuries.
It is important to check out the movement screen to know about your mechanical makeup if you have any soft issues or niggling joints and run regularly. Also, a movement screen will help you when you are looking forward to buying running footwear.
If you want to add running to your exercise activities or are new to running, it is great to check out your structural risk factors and minimise injuries to progress well in your program.
Outsole
Most people outlook this factor, but it is important to know the surface you are running on and its compatibility with your shoes’ outsole. Different shoes have different outsoles for off-road and all-terrain.
Running on a certain terrain with the wrong outsole is the hardest thing a runner can do. This will increase the chances of getting soft tissues injury. Remember, the outsole makes the difference; the midsole should remain constant from the terrain version to the road version.
In a nutshell
When selecting shoes for running, you need to consider the Runners Need to get the right type. Ask yourself questions like the amount of support, cushion, fit, size, and length you need. However, if you follow the above tips, you will enjoy wearing your running footwear.