Guy Gear
Running shoes buying guide
When it comes to buying new running shoes, it doesn’t really matter how cool they look or how sweet a bargain they were. If the shoes don’t fit properly, you won’t be running much of anywhere — except maybe back to the store.
Picking the right shoes for road- or trail-running is tough stuff. So for some handy tips and tricks we tapped former Boy Scout and ex-running store employee Alan Webb, who also just so happens to be one of the fastest distance runners on Earth.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned runner, read on and we guarantee you’ll learn something from Webb that will make your next trip to the shoe store better than ever.
SHOP FOR THE STORE, NOT THE SHOE
“The best thing to do is try to find a good running specialty store,” Webb says. “Sure, you’ll pay $10 or $15 more than at some big-box shoe store, but you’re getting service and you’re getting the right shoe.” Salespeople at specialty stores will take the time to help you find a shoe that properly fits your type of foot.
KNOW YOUR FOOT
Everybody runs differently, but we all do something called pronating when we run.
Basically, every time your shoe hits the ground your foot rolls from the outer edge to the inner edge. Guys whose feet roll excessively inward are called over-pronators. Those whose feet don’t roll in much at all are called under-pronators.
Most running shoes are designed for one type of foot or the other (and most say so in the printed product details on the tag or box).
A salesperson at a running store can tell you right away what kind of a foot you have. Or try this: Put your old pair of shoes side-by-side on a table, toes pointing away from you, and look at how the cushion has worn down. If the shoes tilt outward you are an under-pronator; if they tilt inward, then you are an over-pronator. If they do neither, you have a neutral gait.
“Figure out what kind of runner you are, then find a shoe that matches your foot,” Webb says. Over-pronators need a shoe with added stability and motion control. Neutral runners and under-pronators are usually best off with a shoe with cushioning that minimizes impact without directing the foot in a specific direction.
ROAD OR TRAIL?
Once you know your foot type, think about where you’ll be running most often. Regular running shoes are best for streets or well-maintained jogging paths, but if you plan on heading off-road on rough or undeveloped trails, go for a trail-runner. Trail-runners are usually heavier but have sturdy knobby soles and additional foot support.
WEATHER OR NOT
Is it hot where you run? If so, look for a lightweight shoe with lots of mesh. Cold and rainy? Then pick a pair made with fabrics such as Gore-Tex that will protect you from cold while keeping your feet dry.
IF THE SHOE FITS….
Some guys, like Webb, prefer their shoes to be tight.
“I wear my shoes at least a half size smaller than most people do,” he says. “I jam my foot inside my shoe, so I’ve grown to like that tight feel.”
But for most, a thumbnail’s width of space past your longest toe and the end of the shoe is fine. Also, make sure you have enough room to wiggle your toes freely. Be careful about buying shoes bigger so you’ll have room to grow into into them, because a loose shoe can cause blisters and foot problems if you’re running often.
TEST DRIVE
Always try on the the shoes before you buy. The best time of day to shop for shoes is the evening, Webb says, because your feet swell throughout the day and are largest late in the day. Try on shoes while wearing the same kind of socks you’ll be wearing when running. Finally, don’t be shy: Run around inside the shop. Do your best to simulate the bouncing and bounding you’ll do while actually running.
WHAT’S HOT
Our very own Gear Guy brings you 10 can’t-miss picks. Listed are manufacturers’ suggested retail prices; you can often find better deals in local stores and online.
ROAD RUNNING
Nike Air State Run ($60) The medial dual density post provides motion control for over-pronators. And the lightweight mesh upper combines with the shock-absorbant Air-Sole to give your feet a stable, comfortable run at a great price. (boyslife.org/links/nike; 1-800-238-6453)
Puma Complete Concinnity ($80) This shoe is a good choice for neutral runners as well as mild over-pronators because of the innovative asymmetrical lacing system, which keeps your foot secure and stable. Plus, the suede makes them look cool! (boyslife.org/links/puma; (978-698-1000)
New Balance MR/WR710 ($70) One of the newest runners in their line, the 710 neutral model brings you New Balance’s premium shock absorption and stability at a great entry-level price. (boyslife.org/links/newbalance; 1-800-253-7463)
TRAIL RUNNING
Vasque Velocity ($90) This neutral shoe is Vasque’s hottest selling trail runner of all time. At 14 ounces, it’s not super lightweight, but the Velocity makes up for that with a burly high-traction sole that provides good stability. (boyslife.org/links/vasque; 1-800-224-4453)
Hi-Tec Magma Run ($90) New from hiking boot giant Ho-Tec, the Magma Run is a nice pick for over-pronators since it has plenty of suppport to lock your feet in place. Also, the shoe comes with high-end Vibram soles for better traction on the trail. (boyslife.org/links/hi-tec; 1-800-521-1698)
Asics Gel-Enduro 3 ($60) Weighing in at 12.3 ounces per shoe, the Gel-Enduro is both the lightest and most affordable trail runner here. This is a neutral shoe. (boyslife.org/links/asics: 1-800-333-8404)
BONUS
Vibram Fivefingers Spring ($80) There’s a small but passionate group of runners who believe in the value of barefoot running. If you’re one of those, or someone who likes active watersports, these quirky shoes will fit your feet like a glove. Your toes slide into individual packets in the stretchy upper, giving you full range of motion but with the protection of a Vibram sole. (boyslife.org/links/vibram: (978) 318-0000)
Read 20 comments about “Running shoes buying guide”
October 8th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
TRY NIKE
September 21st, 2008 at 9:15 pm
The Vasque Blur with Vibram sole is nearly indestructible. It lived through my dog who ate my mom’s car keys.
September 12th, 2008 at 8:56 pm
the best shoe is the air trail pegaus by nike its a great running shoe but also has extra stuff for some mild trail very comfy this shoe rocks!
September 2nd, 2008 at 1:30 am
Well i”ve got a pare of pumas you should get some there vary comfy.
August 24th, 2008 at 7:27 pm
Nike Vomeros are the best running shoe I have had… I have a Neutral to sligtly pronate my feet when I runn. Ive used them for over 40 minutes with no problem…. They have excellent cushioning, and great stability, although I would have like it to be alittle more responsive.
August 22nd, 2008 at 5:47 pm
get nike max air torch shoes there the best
February 22nd, 2008 at 4:12 pm
Running barefoot is not for tenderfoot scouts lol. No really those barefoot shoes are amazing, the pumas rock too!
January 27th, 2008 at 4:40 pm
asics are the best. period
January 25th, 2008 at 1:26 am
Anyone who is pretty serious about running should check out Brooks. Other than my Aasics Gel-Kayano 12, I would say Brooks are among the best running shoes. Mostly all of my XC and track team has them and they say they are great. Most are pretty expensive and can get up to $180, but these shoe are well worth the money
January 5th, 2008 at 7:57 pm
I like running so i loved this issue