Make Sure Your Running Shoes Fit

This is the most important step in finding the right shoe. A running shoe that fits will be snug but not tight. Buying running shoes that are too small is a common problem. Your running shoes may need to be a half to a full size larger than your street shoes.

To check for adequate room at the top by pressing your thumb into the shoe just above your longest toe. The edge of your thumb should fit between the end of your toe and the top pf the shoe. Your heel should fit snugly into the rear of the shoe and should not slide up and down as you walk or run. Take the shoes for a test run. Most specialty running stores allow-even encourage-you to run down the street or around the block so that you can feel the shoes in action.

Use these guidelines in trying out a few different models. Then decide on the pair that fits the best and feels the most comfortable. And if you get them home and find some problems with them as you begin your running program, take them back. And a word for the future: Once you have found a shoe that works for you, stick with it. New models will always tempt you, but keep in mind that the right running shoes help you avoid injury. So, if your shoes fit well and feel good, and you do not have any problems with injuries, stick to a sure thing.

Now, lace up those new running shoes and head out on your path to better fitness. With dozens of different companies and models to choose from, and exciting new shoes hitting the market every day, selecting your pair of running shoes remains a tough choice. I have found that the process is much simpler of you follow these guidelines.

Stick with proven shoes. New shoes are like new cars and new computers. You should keep away from them for a couple of years until the bugs are all worked out. Wear your running shoes for running only. They were not intended for basketball or mowing the lawn, and they will give you more miles of comfortable, injury-free running if you only use them for running.

Keep your shoes as dry as possible. Whether they are damp with sweat or wringing wet after a workout in a downpour, they will recover fastest and best if air-dried. Do not put your shoes in the clothes dryer, which is too hot. A small fan does an excellent job of drying out shoes.