Looking For Running Shoes? Start Here

Although it is easy to believe that any trainer-type shoe can be worn interchangeably with any running shoe, nothing could be further from the truth. Using the wrong running equipment for running is a fatal error, as it is an almost guaranteed way to be injured while running. Investing in a decent pair of running shoes is something you will never regret, even if it seems expensive at the outset.

A decent pair of running shoes will provide you with enough support and cushioning to keep your feet safe under most running conditions, and skimping on these aspects leaves you open to strains, sprains, injuries and even shin splints and postural issues. Because running is such a high-impact activity, you will be far better off protecting yourself (and your joints in particular) against this type of onslaught.

If your current pair of running shoes are getting old, or are just not enough for what you need them to do, you would be well advised to visit any of the Asics shoe stores in Australia to help you navigate your journey to your next pair. They can even do a comprehensive foot analysis to help you make sense of your running style and pronation tendencies.

Everyone claims to have the “ideal” running shoe – who is right?

Much as it would have made the process a lot simpler to navigate, there is no single company who can lay claim to manufacturing the ideal running shoe. What is ideal for your build and requirements might not be the same for the next person, and is determined by your individual build and running level, amongst others.
A few things to look out for is good cushioning, as this is the barrier between you an impact-related injuries. A midsole that provides a good receptive feedback will ensure good shock absorption, and the shoes should ideally be lightweight enough to not be a burden on the wearer.

What makes the midsole so important?

Running shoe spend a huge amount of time and money on researching and developing the best midsole insert, and are in a constant state of striving for improvement. This is because all bounce, shock absorption and even how hard-wearing they are all depend on the integrity of the midsole.
The right midsole cushioning will be firm enough to withstand stress and impact over time and distance, while being firm and solid enough to outlast the rigors of running.

Do you understand your gait?

You can only actually invest in the right shoes when you fully grasp the concept of how your feet roll from side to side when you are in motion. Pronation is the term that is used for this movement, and you may fall under either the over- or underpronation category. In the case of overpronation, your feet will roll inwards. Underpronation will lead to your feet rolling outwards, onto the outer edge. Both of these affect your overall weight placement and balance, which is why it is important that you correctly understand what your pronation type is.
How you pronate will affect how you walk and run, and if any corrective measures, like shoes with better support, or a pair with more significant cushioning, is required, you will know that you are buying the right thing for your needs.

Keep on trying on

The fit of a running shoe is not only crucially important to its functioning, but also to accommodate the changing shape of the feet during the running process. These two factors should be your primary considerations – more than fashion, more than “cool”, more than the company’s marketing strategy and more than the cultural significance of wearing a certain type of shoe.
Buying shoes without trying them on, can result in injuries like chafing and pinching, which can give rise to magnified issues in the form of postural problems, alignment issues, and back pain.

What about orthotic inserts – are they worth it?

If running or walking hurts your feet, you might be one of those who benefits from orthotic inserts in your shoes. They are expensive though, and can alter the cushioning ability of the actual shoe. If you can find a shoe with a built-in support system, that would be first prize.