5 Great Tips On How to Choose Running Shoes for Beginners

Looking for tips on how to choose running shoes? Choosing the right pair of running shoes is essential, especially for beginners, because it can either propel or discourage you.

If you don’t choose a comfortable pair, it can lead to sprained ankles or blisters on your feet and ruin the whole running experience. But choosing a good pair will encourage you to run more and more.

With the wide range of running shoes offered on the market, choosing a simple pair can be just as challenging as buying something bigger.  So in this article, you’ll find some helpful tips on how to choose running shoes for beginners.

How to choose running shoes for beginners – things to consider

1.)  Your weight

Most people opt to running as a way of keeping fit or losing weight. And because you are going to be spending a lot of time in these shoes, it is important that you get a pair that will support your weight comfortably to avoid injuries.

2.) Pronation

Pronation is the motion of your foot rolling from your heel to your toe. While running or walking, your weight is distributed to the part of the foot that hits the ground first. So it is important to know how your foot pronates before buying a pair of running shoes.

Below are three types of pronation that will help you know which type of running shoes suits you better.

  • Neutral pronation; is the most common type. This means that the weight is distributed evenly and on the foot

For this type, go for neutral shoes because they provide good shock absorbers and midfoot support.

  • Overpronation; this is when most of the weight concentrates more on the inside edge of the foot toward the big toe. This mostly happen to flat-footed runners.

The recommended shoes for this are stability shoes, which provide strong arch support and stability.

  • Underpronation; this is when the foot hits the ground with the outside of the heel. The foot will roll over outwards leading all the pressure towards the small toe.

Motion control shoes are the most viable for this type.

3.) Arch position of your foot

Different people have different types of foot arches, depending on their feet. Here are the three types of arches’ descriptions. Also, a wet cardboard test can help you identify which type of arch you have.

  • Flat arch; this is found in people who have flat feet. The curve on the inside of the foot is not visible. With this type of arch, you are at greater risk to get injuries such as heel and arch pain. The best shoes for this arch are motion control because they increase the stability of your feet.
  • Normal arch; this where you have a long distinct curve along the inside of the foot. It is the most biomechanically efficient among the three and most people have it. The running shoes that suit this category are stability running shoes
  • High arch; Also known as cavus foot, the center width of the foot in this type is very thin hence a very sharp curve along the inside of the foot. Cushioned running shoes are what you need for a high arch because they absorb the shock

4.) Setup and construction of the shoe

The basic setup and construction of the shoes are important factors to consider.

Below are some things to look out for:

  • The width of the shoe – Check the width of the shoe compared to that of your foot. If the shoe hugs the feet too tight around your toes, it will cause blisters. The shoe should be comfortable; not too tight nor too loose.
  • Cushioning – The shoe should be properly cushioned to prevent harsh friction when the foot comes into contact with it.
  • Durability – If you want a durable pair, look out for durability-enhancing materials and features such as a rubber outsole, reinforced sidewalls, and a protective toe bumper.

5.) Distance and Speed

If you’re a long-distance runner, you should go for proper shoes that offer comfort, breathability, and the support you need. This will help prevent issues such as blisters, chafing, and plantar fasciitis.

If you’re into speedrunning, you should consider a pair with attributes that will help you be effective. Look for the ones that are flexible, lightweight, highly breathable, and that allows for a good amount of spring in your step.

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