Choosing Running Shoes: 6 Foolproof Tips!

Choosing the right running shoes is a common dilemma for every amateur athlete.

Conscious selection of the right footwear can spare you from pains, discomfort, and injuries.

Choosing Running Shoes

Choosing the right running shoes is a common dilemma for every amateur athlete. Some begin their journey into the world of running or walking wearing various types of shoes such as casual sneakers, basketball shoes, or even soccer cleats, although they are not recommended at all. The truth is, selecting the right shoes for sports is crucial, as improper footwear can lead to discomfort and injuries, deterring beginners from the world of sports.

Therefore, we’ve compiled the best tips to help you choose quality running shoes for your workouts. Read on!

Pay attention to the upper (cabedal)

If you are new to running, you might not be familiar with certain terms in this realm, such as ‘cabedal’ or the upper part of the shoe responsible for securing your feet on the platform. The function of the cabedal is to ensure proper ventilation for your feet, especially during activities like running and walking, where sweating is common. Opt for cabedals made of mesh fabric, as it allows good air circulation, avoiding discomfort and potential blisters caused by overheating.

Beware! Midsole defines cushioning

Between your foot and the outsole lies the midsole, the layer responsible for providing cushioning in running shoes. Testing the quality of a midsole is usually done with a durometer, but this equipment might not always be accessible. Therefore, when buying shoes, press the midsole with your fingers. The touch will give you a clear idea of which material can offer better comfort and cushioning. Prefer softer midsoles over firmer ones.

Weight makes all the difference

Those starting in the running world often overlook the weight of the shoes, but they shouldn’t! Although the weight may vary depending on the size, there’s a standardization for practical purposes. For size 36, 180g is considered lightweight, 240g is intermediate, and above 300g is considered heavy and not recommended for running. Similarly, for size 41, a lightweight shoe will weigh less than 200g, 280g is intermediate, and above 350g is considered heavy.

For better grip, choose rubber outsoles!

Our next tip on choosing running shoes concerns the shoe’s outsole responsible for providing grip, preventing slips while walking or running. Regardless of whether you run on a treadmill or asphalt, it is recommended to have a running shoe with a rubber outsole for optimal coverage.

Go for a larger size

In everyday life, we are used to buying snug-fitting shoes, but when it comes to running shoes, it is recommended to have a 5 to 10mm space around the toe area. This allows your feet to expand during the run without causing any harm. Tight shoes can lead to pain, postural changes, and various issues in the feet, knees, and spine.

Comfort is crucial

To conclude our tips on choosing running shoes, we emphasize the importance of comfort. A shoe might be stylish and trendy, but it’s of no use if you cannot feel comfortable wearing it. Therefore, it’s best to buy running shoes in physical stores where you can try them on before making a purchase. If the shoes don’t hurt, squeeze, or bother you while walking around the store, they will undoubtedly be great companions for your daily runs and walks. It’s a surefire recipe for success!