What You Need to Look for in a Running Shoe

What You Need to Look for in a Running Shoe

Selecting the right running shoe to match your body weight, running style, and the terrain is a challenge that many beginner runners don't spend enough time researching.

Your shoes are the most critical aspect of your running gear, and the right pair of shoes can dramatically accelerate your training.

The wrong pair of shoes could cause your feet to feel stiff and sore after runs, even sapping your energy for the rest of the day after your workout.

In this guide, we'll unpack everything you need to know about selecting the right pair of running shoes to match the needs of your feet and your training.

1. Give yourself enough toe length

When you're trying on a pair of shoes, it may be tempting to get a pair that conform completely to your foot. However, your feet start to swell when you run, pulling subcutaneous water to your feet to soften the impact of the training.

You should leave more room in the front of your running shoes than you're used to having. A good rule is to allow about the width of your thumb in the front of the toe box.

That's all the room you need to accommodate the expansion of your feet in the shoes. 

2. Make sure you have plenty of toe width

Like we mentioned, your feet swell – and in all directions. Make sure you get a roomy toe box that prevents your toes from cramping up together as your feet expand. You need plenty of wiggle room to ensure you don't damage your feet during your training. 

Some brands, like Altra Running and Topo Athletic, make shoes with more full "foot-shaped" toe boxes, to provide even more room for toe width.

3. Look for models with no seams

Friction is a real problem for runners. When your feet start to find friction points in your shoes, it leads to blisters. The seams in your shoes are good examples of friction points that cause the onset of blisters.

Look for models that offer seamless construction in the inside of the show. You might have to pay more for these models, but they are worth the money with the damage they save on your feet.

4. Does the shoe have the right arch for you?

Find the right fit for your feet. Runners with high arches need more support in this area and better padding. Flat feet will suit minimalist shoes and those with thin soles and low-pressure points in the midsole. Make sure you understand your feet before ordering your shoes. 

At Grivet Outdoors, we recommend local runners come into our stores for a personalized foot scan and fit with our staff, using the FootBalance kiosk.

5. Does the shoe hold your heel tight?

The right shoe will hug the heel of your foot. While you want some room in the front of the shoe, you want a secure, comfortable, and snug feel in the rear.

6. Does the sole feel firm and responsive?

The sole of the shoe should feel good under your feet. You need to feel confident moving and turning quickly in the shoe, without losing traction, or feeling your foot move inside the shoe.

7. Does the sole flex right and feel lightweight?

Look at the flex point of your shoe – the flex point is where the sole bends when you press your toes into the floor. Ensure that the sole bends at the same natural point as on the ball of your foot.

This process can be intimidating to new runners. Don't worry! We're here to answer your questions and get you in the best shoe, just for you.

Shopping Suggestions 

For a snappy sensation while running, check out On Running's exclusive Speedboard, in all On Running shoes. We love the Cloudswift and the Cloud X.

For running apparel, to complete your running kit, check out our favorites from rabbit. 

← Previous Post Next Post →