Find running shoes to fit your specific needs.
Athletic Apparel and running shoe advertisements bombard the public with television commercials, magazines and newspapers. The ads claim running shoes can help prevent injury, counteract further injury and improve performance, but which one is right for you?
WALKING SHOES
The difference between running and walking shoes is flexibility. The difference is where the body bends to perform each movement. The knees bend more than the foot and ankle during running. The bend is at the ankle and foot during walking. Therefore, walking shoes are intended to bend more than running shoes. So for people with no interest in running, walking shoes are fine.
Running shoes are the best bet for anyone who intends to make the jump from walking to running. Running shoes are sturdier because running causes almost 5 times more impact on the knees than walking. Remember - you can walk in running shoes but you can’t run in walking shoes.
TRAIL RUNNING SHOES
Deeper grooves in the “grid” characterize trail running shoes. While street running shoes are rather smooth on the bottom, trail running shoes are more jagged for traction over slippery or rough terrain.
Some trail running shoes are built for running over actual grass or sod tracks. The negative for these shoes is that they often do not have the cushion for running over rocky terrain. The positive is that these are great for races.
Other trail running shoes are built for running over rocky terrain. They may be uncomfortable while running over grass because of their tough nature. However, they will have good traction.
Tell the person at the shoe store if you plan on running over rocks or grass. They should be able to put you in the right shoe.
WOMEN’S RUNNING SHOES
The insole and shape of shoes is designed on what shoe companies call a “last.” Lasts are designed to fit the shape of people’s foot. As one can imagine, women’s feet are built differently than men.
Women typically have a wide forefoot and narrow heel. Saucony running shoes' standard last is designed specifically with this in mind.
Most women have to be “in love” with the shoes they buy. The problem is this - quality women’s running shoes are often “not cute.” While Nike running shoes may not have the most quality, they are “cute.”
MEN’S RUNNING SHOES
Companies do not design entire shoe lines specifically for men. Don’t fret - there are plenty of options out there for you.
Heavier people may want to invest in a pair of New Balance 587 running shoes. They may not be pretty but these shoes are sturdy and motion-controlled with plenty of cushion. New Balance running shoes are also unique because they provide different widths.
Mizuno running shoes are ultra-light. Mizuno running shoes are great for speed but they also make shoes for those who need motion control or extra support.
CONCLUSION
Adidas, Brooks, Nike, New Balance, Saucony, Mizuno and more athletic apparel companies sell running shoes. It’s hard to look at a wall of shoes, find the one that looks good, in your size and fits your needs.
Running shoes cost too much to buy and never use. Don’t let someone sell you shoes you don’t want. You are more important than that.
Sources:
“Why Your Knees And Quads Hurt More After Running Than Walking: You’re Only Human” by Mayer Resnick, August 24, 2004
“Fall Trail Running Shoe Guide” by Warren Greene and Ray Fredricksen. Runner’s World
