No two runners are alike, which is why we carry such a large selection of running shoes. The type of running shoe you need depends on a whole host of factors including the distance you plan on running, the surface(s) you'll run on, your gait, and the biomechanics of your feet and ankles—just to name a few.
What are the best running shoes?
Glad you asked (loaded question)...while certainly Saucony Running Shoes, Brooks Running Shoes, ASICS Running Shoes, Mizuno Running Shoes, and New Balance Running Shoes have long been the favorite of runners, newcomers like On Running Shoes, HOKA Running Shoes, and 361 Running Shoes have made massive strides to close the gap in performance, quality, and style—creating a new race for the top spot. At the end of the day, what's best for you will inevitably be a personal choice based on your unique feet and stride; no one brand will always win.
How long do running shoes last?
Running shoes have to cover a lot of ground—literally and in terms of features. Obviously, they need to keep you comfortable. But they should also support you throughout your entire movement cycle, helping you to run efficiently and with proper form no matter what kind of running you do. In order to help you run your best and avoid injury, it's crucial to replace your running shoes when they're worn out.
Many people wait until they see visible signs like cracking, tearing, or peeling, but the truth is: Running shoes may stop providing the support you need before it becomes obvious to the naked eye. The best way to know that you're running in adequately supportive footwear is to keep track of how many miles you've logged in your current pair of running shoes and be sure to change them out every 300-400 miles.
How should running shoes fit?
Don't settle for an ill-fitting running shoe or try to force the next size up or down to work for your foot’s unique shape or width. Running in a shoe that doesn't fit well is uncomfortable at best and dangerous at worst.
The first step to a good fit is understanding the size, shape, and unique movement pattern of your feet. Before buying your next pair of running shoes, figure out if you have a low, neutral, or high arch, which will help you to determine your gait pattern: overpronation, neutral pronation, or underpronation. The more you know about your feet, the better equipped you’ll be to keep them happy and healthy with the perfect pair of running shoes!
Once you've zeroed in on your size and width, it's time to try 'em on! Wear the socks you plan to wear running, and be sure to try on both shoes. Your feet should feel secure in the shoes, but your toes should have plenty of breathing room. Your feet swell when you run, and neglecting to leave a little extra room can result in painful blisters later on. Don't be afraid to jog around the store a bit to see if the shoes rub, slide, or generally don't feel "right" on your feet. Do your heels stay put? Are your arches happy? Do the shoes flex with your feet?
If you're having trouble finding your size, we can help! We carry wide running shoes, narrow running shoes, high-arch running shoes, low-arch running shoes, and more—all in a variety of hard-to-find sizes that will keep you going.
How to choose running shoes
Different runs place different demands on your body and therefore require different shoes. Marathon running shoes should provide stability and comfort as you log mile after mile after mile. Consider buying two pairs of marathon running shoes simultaneously—one to train in and another to lightly break in but keep relatively fresh/cushy for race day.
General running shoes for casual running/jogging should make you feel comfortable, supported, and like you could run forever. Also known as road running shoes, these are your everyday trainers that most people rely on for the bulk of their runs.
If you're looking to pick up the pace, opt for a pair of lightweight shoes, but if it's distance you're after, be sure to focus on cushioning. The bottom line for choosing the right running shoes is to find a pair that works for you. Reviews and awards are great, but at the end of the day: yours is the only opinion that truly matters. If you find them comfortable, you don't experience any tweaks or twinges, and they help you run farther and/or faster, then they're probably the right running shoes for you.
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