
Owning a good pair of shoes is one of the most important parts of training. If your shoes are poor quality or don’t fit properly, you’ll run the risk of aches and pains, blisters and even injury.
So, how do you find the right pair? Keep in mind the following:
1. When selecting a size, choose a shoe that is ½ size bigger than you normally wear. Your foot will expand while running, so it’s essential you have enough room to be comfortable. There should be a thumb’s width of space between your big toe and the front of the shoe.
2. Try out different brands to compare how they feel. Each has a unique style and varying sizes, so it’s important to find one that fits you comfortably.
3. Try them out! Many stores allow you to take your shoes home and try them out for a couple days to ensure they are the right choice. If you realize they don’t quite fit, you can return them. Just make sure you test them on a treadmill and bring them back clean.
When shopping for shoes, a specialty running store is your best bet. Their employees are experts on running and can recommend a shoe based on your foot type and running style.
The best specialty running store in Des Moines is Fitness Sports in Windsor Heights. Their staff will watch you run and recommend a shoe that gives you the most stability based on your form. After they help you select a pair, you can take a quick run in the back hallway to test them out and ensure it’s the right choice.
After you train with a good quality shoe that fits your foot, you’ll be amazed at the difference!