To find the perfect running shoe, you must know the type of feet you have in order to pick the best one that will go well with your foot structure. In this way, running will be comfortable and safer without endangering your foot health.
Each person has a different type of foot and buying generic footwear will be unhealthy in the long run, especially if you plan to use them a lot for a specific purpose, such as running. The arch of your foot dictates the kind of running shoe to buy. A foot with a normal arch will benefit from a motion-controlled running shoe. High arches require a cushioned type of footwear for more support, and low arched feet will need stability running shoes. Foot arch isn’t the only factor you need to consider when choosing running shoes. The best pair will keep your feet from the risks of injury or deformity.
There are six basic categories to consider when choosing your running shoe. These categories are based on scientific research which has evaluated the best running shoe for each different type of feet. These categories include fit, stability, cushioning, weight, breathability, and flexibility.
With the right fit and support, the perfect running shoe will prevent any occurrences of foot injuries, leg pain or back pain that comes from wearing ill-fitting footwear. Feet that are uncomfortable in incorrect shoes will cause your back to compensate for the incompatible fit, and you’ll end up with back pain in the long run. Our feet support most of our weight, and choosing the wrong kind of footwear will have a negative impact on our foot health and for the rest of our body.
The first thing to determine is the kind of running you plan to do. Are you a sprinter or a long distance runner? Do you plan to run on flat even surfaces, or on rough trails? Choose your running shoe based on the kind of flexibility and cushioning you need depending on the running activities your normally perform.
You’ll also need to consider the length and width of your feet, as well as how high or low your arches are. Your preference will also dictate the type of running shoe you should buy, such as how much room you want between your toes and the end of your shoe.
Cushioning is also important, especially if you intend to run long distances. Cushioning will help absorb the impact of your feet hitting the ground, so the longer the distance you plan to run, the more cushioning you will need for your running shoe. Additionally, long distance runners should think about investing in more than one shoe to prevent wear and tear, as shoes should be discarded after the first 500 miles.
The quality of your running shoes can have a big impact on your health and motivation to run. A good running shoe that fits correctly, stabilizes your feet, provides enough cushioning and shock absorption, as well as traction and momentum will prevent the risks of foot injury that wearing ill-fitting and incorrect shoes are likely to cause on your foot health. Good quality shoes makes your feet feel better after a run, hence improving your motivation to continue running.