Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner, or you’re about to do your first 5km Fun Run, choosing the right running shoe is vital. Wearing the wrong shoes can cause irreparable damage, not only to your feet, but also to your knees, hips and spine. Incorrect shoes can lead to injuries of muscles and ligaments, that could knock you out of running for up to six months. Choosing the correct shoes is the most important step, before one embarks on training or jogging, whether you are experienced, or an absolute novice.
To begin with, you need to know if you are an under pronator, an overpronator or if your feet are neutral. Even those who suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, can find the best running shoes for Plantar Fasciitis easily. Not sure what any of this means? Read on for good, solid advice on what’s best for your running experience.
Before you choose your shoes, consider the following factors. When shopping for running shoes, it’s very important to look out for the following key performance area in your shoes:
This is the most important thing to consider while buying running shoes. If you plan to hit the trails and run over rough terrain, through mud and water, then you will need to look at trail running shoes. However, if you’re the city slicker, who runs on tar, then the lighter road running shoes are for you. Choosing the correct shoes for your terrain can be the difference between pulled muscles, strained ligaments and damaged toenails.
This is a non-negotiable. Inadequate cushioning can cause untold damage to the joints, as the main function of the cushioning is to absorb the impact as you run. This is also something you need to be aware of when you’ve had your shoes for some time.
If you find your run suddenly starts to feel hard on the knees and ankles, there’s a good chance your shoes have reached their “sell by date” and it’s time to replace them. If you’ve already had your gait assessed, you will know what you’re looking for, making online shopping an absolute breeze.
This is where all the fancy terminology comes in. If you are an overpronator, you will need a stability shoe. This means the best running shoes for overpronation should be built up on the inside, to support the extra weight you place on the inside of your foot when running. If you’re not sure, check the wear pattern on the shoes you wear daily. Are they more worn on the inside an under your big toe? If so, you are probably an overpronator. Running shoes without adequate support will mean that you could suffer shinsplints, painful ankles and knees after a run. Additional arch support, or built up arches, are needed for runners who have flat feet or dropped arches. The muscles in the arch are not able to lift the arches, so it’s important to choose a shoe that will do it for you, in order to avoid injuries.
Plantar fasciitis sufferers will also need to be very selective when buying running shoes. They will need shoes that allow for minimal slide and offer superior support for their heels and ankles. Inadequate support will aggravate this painful condition, rendering you unable to run at all. There are also special exercises for this condition, so please consult with your Biokineticist for advice.
For those lucky enough to have neutral feet, your choices are almost endless, but do be wary if you have high arches. You will need to be on the lookout for best running shoes for high arches that offer independent lacing systems. These allow for customised lacing techniques that will best suit your feet, and prevent chafing and pressure on the bones in your feet.
This is a very important aspect to consider, when choosing running shoes. You don’t want to feel as though you’re dragging blocks of lead around with you when you’re running. This aspect should be high on your list of priorities, whether you’re just starting out as a runner, or whether you’re running ultra-distances. Heavy shoes will add to muscle fatigue and slow you down. This can also to lead to “the shuffle”, which uses far more energy and tires you out more quickly.
This important aspect is often overlooked. It speaks to the long-term comfort of the shoes. When choosing your shoes, be aware of seams. Stitching or joins inside the shoes, which may end up giving you blisters a few kilometres into your run. Run your fingers around the inside of the shoes, feeling for any ridges or lumps that may end up blistering you during your run.
This is the least important aspect to consider when choosing your shoes, although nobody wants to buy ugly shoes! Please ensure that you consider foot health, comfort and safety, over the particular shade of purple you like. The mechanical needs of your body, are much higher up the list of priorities! That said, there are some amazing looking shoes available, that still offer all the right key performance indicators.
When it comes to running, men and women are mostly created equal. There is very little difference between men’s and women’s shoes, aside from the fact that women usually have smaller feet and might like “prettier” shoes than their male counterparts.
So, which are the shoes for you?
Here we can see the best running shoes for plantar fasciitis and there are a lot of benefits or better said advantages they offer. First of all, it is the comfort. We all know that running shoes must stay comfortable at all times. This particular model offers a specific cushioning system which makes them extremely comfortable. Then we have the mesh and fabric mixture at the top which adjusts the shoe to each foot separately.
Fluid fit
This is precisely the main advantage of the shoes we have here. This system involves the use of mesh fabrics and the reinforcement elements in order to make a perfect, glove-alike fit. It adjusts and adapts to each foot perfectly. Reinforcement elements are added in order to keep multi-directional stretch fabric durable and strong.
Seamless construction
Thanks to the use of specific materials and the way how these shoes were made, we can see that there is no possible irritation involved. Keep in mind that your feet will be exposed to stress, moisture, and pressure, so your feet will be more sensitive to the mentioned issues. Luckily, these shoes won’t cause irritation regardless of the fact how long you wear them. In addition, there is no traditional stitching which can cause irritation as well. These shoes are modern and sophisticated.
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Best running shoes for flat feet are difficult to find and you must take into account a lot of different factors. A good thing is that we did all hard word for you and here we have the best model for the specific type of people. As you also know, these shoes are purpose-made and they come with the highest quality possible. We liked the attention to the details, the fact they are available in different colors, but mostly, we liked the result users get while running while wearing them.
This system refers to the cushioning system which can be seen in the shoes in question. What it stands for is the absolute comfort at all times. In addition, it also has a positive effect on the shock absorption while running. We must add that this particular system is gender friendly and it is the main reason why these shoes offer dynamic feeling when worn.
Advanced mid-foot saddle
For all of you with flat feet, adjusting the mid-foot saddle is the main factor to consider. In this case scenario, we are looking for asymmetrical and fully adjustable mid-foot element which is just perfect if you are looking for added comfort. Because it is asymmetrical, it is generally more comfortable and more beneficial for all of you.
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The best running shoes for men do come in a lot of colors, sizes and with different features. Of them all, we liked the tested model the most. It is another, specifically made running shoe for people with high arches and it offers advanced performances. The shoes are made of textile and synthetic materials, so they feel nice to touch and they are comfortable to wear. In essence, there is zero drop platform and great cushioning system. In other words, you enjoy wearing these shoes and you will want to run more and more while wearing them.
Altra Bound cushioning
Here is the main advantage of the tested model. They offer something called AltraBound. This is an advanced and sophisticated form of cushioning that offers the best performances and the best results when the terrain isn’t flat. The secret is in the two layers of cushioning which are impressive in the lack of a better word and which offer great results.
Anatomical toe box
We all know that space for our toes in running shoes is always too small. That’s why we have discovered running shoes that eliminate this massive issue. Thanks to the just mentioned feature, these are the best running shoes in general. You will get plenty of space for your toes and the front part of the shoes is anatomical so it is even more beneficial.
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The Saucony Men's Omni 13 is a model that definitely deserves your attention. These shoes have been designed and made by professionals, so they are the best deal for most of you. The main advantage is the durability. If you are planning to run all day long, for a long period of time, then these shoes are simply the best choice for you. On our tests, they performed well and they provided comfort in all conditions. Yes, they are also available in different color versions, but you only get three of them.
Seamless overlays
The mesh and the materials used at the top of the shoes are specifically made for this type of shoes. They are breathable, but at the same time, they are strong. There is no stitching here, so you get the well-known seamless design. Keep in mind that this also decreases the risk of skin irritation. We must add the fact that the combination affects the overall comfort and makes it simply stunning.
Arch-Lock and Support Frame
You must know that overpronation is a severe issue and it may be more than just annoying. Well, this requires specific footwear. In this case scenario, we can see the Arch-Lock and Support Frame technologies. They are unique to these shoes so they are stunning and something you must have if you have the aforementioned condition. These features affect the comfort and allow for you to experience the most impressive running results, simply by maximizing the comfort while running.
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Altra Escalante Running Shoe is one of the newer models available on the market and the ones that deserve your full attention. Thanks to the fact we tested them in the real world, we can share the impressions with you.
Altra EGO midsole
The midsole is actually the main element here. It makes the running shoes special and highly desirable on the market right now. We must add that this affects the comfort as well. So these shoes will provide exception level of it at any given moment. The midsole is based on the latest technology and it truly has a lot to offer. The last but not least, it makes the running shoes we have here unique and one of a kind.
Enhanced performances
If you are planning to get running shoes for fast running and for situations where every second count, you will need this model. The unique design makes the shoes special in the enhancing the performances. You get the superb traction, paired with comfort and with the added practicality. All this means that you will definitely improve your running capabilities. It isn’t strange that so many professional athletes use these shoes.
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All of these models are high-end units, so they offer a high level of quality and attention to details. We must add that each pair from the list is the best for a specific type of person, according to the feet type. We also discovered and helped you find the best shoes for different conditions. Now it is your turn to get the running shoes you like. For us, the ASICS Men's Gel Nimbus 18 Running Shoe is the best choice. They are advanced and they offer all an average person will ever need. If you have a different opinion, be free to browse the models we have mentioned here and find the one that is just ideal for your feet. If you also want to stay comfortable while walking then confident by reading our best walking shoes review.
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
