Manalapan
(732) 845-0100
Manalapan (732) 845-0100
Choosing the right running shoes for you is an important part of running. A good pair of running shoes will make the running experience more enjoyable for you and prevent potential injury.
Poorly-fitted shoes can increase the risk of injury in runners substantially. Common injuries from running with poor quality shoes include shin splints, sprained ankles, Achilles tendinitis, stress fractures, plantar fasciitis and more. This is due to the fact that bad shoes do not provide proper foot support, can increase pronation (how much the foot rolls when hitting the ground), have little to no cushioning, do not allow the feet to breath, and do not provide enough flex and rigidity in the right parts.
When looking for running shoes, first, determine where you will be running. If you are a trail runner, then pick trail shoes. If you run on concrete and asphalt, then regular running shoes are the best choice. When trying on shoes, its best to go at the end of the day as feet grow during the day and shrink after a night of sleep. Shoes should be more rigid towards the back of the foot while being more flexible up where the toes are. The toe box should provide enough room for the toes to move freely. The overall fit should be snug, not too tight but not too loose. A good pair of running shoes should also provide enough arch support for your foot type. If you experience overpronation or under-pronation while running, try to find a pair of shoes that will help correct this with different sole patterns. Finally, try to find a pair of shoes that allow the feet to breathe like nylon mesh or synthetic leather.
Don’t forget about the socks either. Socks that hold too much moisture can lead to athlete’s foot. Socks should be breathable so that your feet can air out and breathe. Synthetic socks wick away moisture like sweat. If you tend to run a lot, having a second pair of shoes that you can wear while you let the first pair air out is smart. Just don’t forget to replace your shoes after about every 300 to 500 miles.
Before you start running, it is advised to see a podiatrist to see if running is right for you. They can also offer good advice on how to run and what to look for in a pair of running shoes. If you have flat feet or poorly supported ones, they can also offer custom-made orthotics that will help give your feet the support they need.
Trail running shoes are specifically designed to provide support, traction, and durability for off-road running. These shoes typically feature a more aggressive tread pattern compared to road running shoes, offering better grip on uneven surfaces like dirt, rocks, and mud. Trail shoes also provide added protection with reinforced toe caps and a thicker midsole to absorb the impact from rough terrains. Different types of trails require different shoe features. For smooth, well-maintained trails, shoes with lighter weight and moderate cushioning are ideal. For more technical and rugged trails, shoes with extra cushioning, stability, and a more robust tread are recommended. The type of terrain, whether it be rocky, muddy, or snowy, should be considered when selecting trail shoes, as each condition demands specific shoe characteristics to ensure comfort and performance. If you have sustained a foot injury from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on what shoes to wear for your desired type of running.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Charles Marchese from Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Manalapan, NJ, and Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.