By Sarah Burns on May 8, 2010 in
Fact: Reviews can only take you so far when you're choosing new running shoes, since it's impossible to list the best fit for every foot. Still, expert and user feedback can help you narrow down your choices, a helpful thing with the dizzying array of options now available. To help make your hunt a little easier, we did some additional detective work and dug up a few footwear-finding tips.
- Avoid shopping in the morning. Go shopping late in the day after your feet have expanded from walking, since you'll want your shoes to fit comfortably even when your feet are swollen.
- Start with a professional running store. Most of these shoe shops are run by past athletes and current runners who have the ability to correctly determine your gait and foot type -- all key factors that can help you find the best fit. Plus, many of these establishments have in-store treadmills for employees to examine your stride in action.
- Vie for variety--don't settle. Don't be afraid to try on a wide variety of running shoes in all price ranges to gauge which ones best fit you. Additionally, good running shoes should not need a break-in period -- the right pair should feel great right off the bat. To ensure an accurate fit, it's also wise to try the shoes on with the same socks and orthotics you'll be wearing during your runs.
- Bring your old running shoes. The shape of your old shoes can be very telling to the right eyes.Their wear patterns and appearance will give store employees a solid idea of your shoe taste, gait and running style.
- Lean toward a larger shoe size. Most experts recommend buying running shoes one half-size larger than your street shoes, since your feet will shift around a lot and likely swell as you run.
For more tips, and a comprehensive rundown of reviewers' favorites check out our recently-updated report on running shoes.