What Makes a Good Running Shoe?  

Experience tells us that color is the primary criteria most people use for selecting a running shoe.

Would you buy a vehicle based primarily on color? Probably not.

Selecting an appropriate running shoe should include factors that many buyers don't consider. These include:

• Appropriate size and fit
• Good heel counter to prevent excess heel motion
• Strong mid sole for shock absorption and transfer
• Well-fitting toe box to prevent blistering, callus, or nail bed bleeding

Biomechanical studies have helped manufacturers design more comfortable and, in some cases, more therapeutic, running shoes. A well-fitting and well-constructed running shoe is essential in preventing tendinitis and other overuse syndromes.

Consider what you need in a shoe to best fit your feet. Your heel width may need to be narrower than normal, instep height higher for the more high arch, toe box height deeper for the thicker forefoot or to accommodate an insert, and forefoot height wider to al-low the ball of the foot room to widen in full weight bearing.

Other features may include a stiffer heel counter surrounding the heel to resist or prevent hind foot pronation. Mid sole construction may include materials to cushion the foot while in stance phase, while resisting hind foot pronation. In combination with the heel counter, the mid sole type may be used to treat over pronation.

Look for other questions on shoe manufacturers' Web sites or by asking your running care professional. And remember, never purchase a pair of shoes without trying them on. There is little consistency company to company and often style to style within a particular manufacturer's products. So, don't hesitate to try on multiple pairs.

Happy shoe shopping.