How to Choose Running Shoes

Wearing the right running shoes for your foot type will keep you more comfortable during runs and help avoid injuries. If you have flat feet, you most likely overpronate, which means that your feet roll inward when you run. Women with flat feet need running shoes that maintain their stability. When shopping for running shoes, you should look for the words "motion control" and "stability" to describe the running shoes you're considering.

There are lots of running-shoe brands and styles on the market. While most running shoes feel comfortable when you're standing in a sports store, the true test is after several miles on the trail or asphalt. You'll quickly realize that your perfect shoe has more to do with the shape of your foot and your running style than it does with the logo stitched on the side.

This article discusses how to narrow down your shoe choices, plus it takes a look at the trend of barefoot running.

Road running shoes are designed for pavement and occasional forays onto packed surfaces with slight irregularities (fire roads, nature trails, wood-chip paths). Light and flexible, they're made to cushion or stabilize feet during repetitive strides on hard, even surfaces.

Know Your Feet

Foot size: You probably know your shoe size already. But if you're unsure or if one foot is larger than the other, it's best to have your feet measured at REI or other shoe retailer with a Brannock device. (That's the flat metal tool with sliders that measure the length, width and the toe-to-ball length of the foot.).Whenever possible, try the shoe on to see if it fits. Shoe lasts (which determines shoe sizes, described below) vary by manufacturer and even from one shoe model to another. You may need a half-size or even a full size smaller or larger than you think.

Most men wear a D-width shoe while most women wear a B-width. You don't have to wear a gender-specific shoe-the lasts are basically the same. Men: Try a women's shoe if you have a narrow foot. Women: Try a men's shoe if you have a larger or wider foot. If the shoe fits, wear it!

Arch shape: Here's a simple way to find yours. As you get out of the tub, shower or pool, take a look at the footprint you leave on the bathmat or cement. The shape of your footprint will indicate the type of arch you have. Your arch shape affects the way your foot moves as you run.