Simple Suggestions for Finding An Appropriate Running Shoe

Selecting an appropriate running shoe has never been more confusing and difficult. This should come as no surprise considering the misinformation that exists related to arch height, pronation, and cushioning to name a few. We must also contend with experts from various fields and disciplines making grandiose statements regarding footwear without ever having evaluated or observed the runner, who clings to such advice as gospel. At day's end, how you run, and the decisions you make related to your running, far outweigh what's on your feet, provided that the shoe is 

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​appropriately fit and free of defects. So, find a pair of shoes that feel comfortable, and don't get caught up in the hype of the purported benefits of various shoe features. As I always remind runners, treat buying shoes similar to shopping for jeans. First, check to see if the right size (length and width) is in stock. From there, it's only natural to try on a few different pairs to see what feels best. Perhaps you walk (or run) around the store a bit to see how they fit/wear. Inspecting the jeans for possible holes or sloppy stitching would also be indicated to ensure that you don't walk out with a lemon. In contrast to shopping for jeans, however, don't be so concerned with how the shoes look. This is where runners often get into trouble :-) 

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​SCREEN FOR MANUFACTURING DEFECTS

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​RUN IN MORE THAN ONE PAIR OF SHOES

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​ACCOMMODATE THE FOREFOOT

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​SIZE SHOES TO THE LONGEST TOE OF THE LONGEST FOOT & SOMETIMES YOU MAY NEED TWO DIFFERENT SHOES

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​DON'T FALL PREY TO THE UPSELL OF ORTHOTICS

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​STICK WITH WHAT FEELS COMFORTABLE ON YOUR FEET

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Below is a list of reminders that I put together and send out to my clients as postcards. Thought you may find them helpful...

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I also wanted to share this video by Dr. Kevin Maggs, D.C., who did an excellent job highlighting key research while challenging several routine practices related to prescribing and selecting footwear for running. Enjoy!

Prescribing Running Shoes from RunningReform on Vimeo.