With the economy faltering somewhat this past year, we all must be more aware of our spending habits. Everyone will notice that the price of products continues to go up and that includes running shoes. Even with the price increases, I believe running shoes purchased from a knowledgeable retailer offer one of the best values for your dollar. A quality running shoe is purposely designed to support, protect and enhance you activity of running.

Running shoes are made from a combination of EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate), polyurethane and different types of thermal plastics. Every company has its own proprietary technology such as Nike’s Air, Asics’ Gel, and Brooks’ Hydraflow. These unique technologies help reduce the impact and guide your feet through your gait cycle with the proper motion. Because your body disperses 2 to 4 times your body weight on every heel strike when you are running these technologies are needed to help prevent injury.

Many people ask us what is the difference between one shoe and another. Most of the materials used by the manufacturers are the same, but the mold or last of the shoe is different. The mold is what they build the shoe around. That is why if you try on the same size shoe from different companies you get a unique feel from each shoe. Price doesn’t dictate what is the best shoe for your foot. First you need a knowledgeable person to do an analysis of your foot to let you know what type of foot you have and what shoe type will work best for you. There are three major categories of running shoes: Stability (for people whose feet role inward) Neutral or Cushioning (for someone who has a neutral gait or their foot rolls outward) and a Motion Control shoe (for someone with a flat foot who needs their foot to be stabilized). Always remember to pay attention to the width of shoes. Your foot will swell ½ to 1 ½ sizes when you exercise so make sure the shoe doesn’t feel tight on the sides or at the toes.

Once your foot is accessed for size, type and width, try on at least two different shoes by different manufactures. You will find you like one better than the other. You should always select the shoe that is the most comfortable and feels the most natural on your foot. You should also run a little on a treadmill if available, or on the sidewalk to make sure there are no major problems. Minor discomfort or stiffness will go away after wearing the shoe for a short period of time. If it doesn’t I recommend returning the shoe. Most reputable retailers stand behind not only the quality of their products but also the fit.

The quality running store offers experienced, knowledgeable salespeople along with a great selection of products and is willing to stand behind both with a 100% guarantee. Your hard earned money will be well spent.

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