The beauty of running is that it requires very little equipment (although my husband would probably disagree). Although there are lots of accessories that many runners would swear were essential, the truth is that shoes are the main thing you need to be a runner. A good pair of shoes is absolutely critical. If you take nothing else from this, take my advice to get a quality pair of shoes. I can’t emphasize this enough so I’m going to say it again….make sure you get good, properly fitted running shoes. Choosing to ignore this can lead to foot pain or injury. 
Running shoes can be very expensive but quality does not necessarily have to mean the most expensive pair. So how do you know which shoes are right for you? These 5 tips will help you find the perfect pair of running shoes for your foot.
- Get professionally fitted in a running store. Employees are usually experienced runners themselves and will discuss your particular needs. They will visually analyze your feet and watch you run to know what level of support you need. Based on that information, they will help you try on various brands to figure out what is most comfortable for you.
- Don’t assume or guess your size. Allow the store employee to measure your feet. Swelling happens throughout the day and your feet will swell some as you run. Because sizes run differently among brands, it is important to have your feet measured. In general, running shoes should be a half size to full size larger than what you typically wear to account for swelling and give your feet room.
- Avoid gimmicky shoe claims. Remember the shoes that claimed to tone and tighten your legs and butt? They were actually sued for making false claims. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Shoes won’t provide you with some magical health benefit. You can get in shape wearing any kind of athletic shoe – the secret has to do with the actions of the person wearing the shoe and not the shoes themselves.
- Don’t buy for looks. I understand the desire to have a nice-looking pair of shoes. And that’s perfectly fine for work shoes or casual shoes. But running shoes aren’t meant to make a fashion statement. When selecting running shoes, buy the ones that fit. Sometimes it may not be your favorite color but if it gets the job done, that’s the important thing. Besides, no one will notice your shoes while you’re running anyway.
- Find the right fit. The shoe should feel comfortable as soon as you put it on. You should have enough room to wiggle your toes and have a little space at the end of the toe box so that your toes are not touching the end of the shoe. The heel should be firm but not too tight. You also don’t want it too loose so that your heel slips up and down inside the shoe. Also make sure the width feels comfortable. If it feels too tight across the foot, try another fit. Try running in the shoes to make sure they feel good when running.
Bonus tip: Don’t buy for price. Decent running shoes will run anywhere from $70-130. Once you find a size and style that works for you, it’s possible to find clearance deals when new models come out. It’s also important to note that the most expensive pair of shoes isn’t always the best pair. The best pair is the one that fits you well, feels comfortable and supports your running style. I usually get 300-500 miles out of a pair of running shoes so I consider my shoes an investment in my running. What are your favorite athletic shoes?
Tough Cookie Mommy says
September 17, 2014 at 7:05 pmI always have trouble buying sneakers or running shoes because I have wide feet. There certainly are many things to consider.
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Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
September 18, 2014 at 4:01 amMy mom has that problem, but Foot Locker has some wide width ones.
Alexandra Young says
September 17, 2014 at 7:13 pmI can never find a perfect pair of athletic shoes leaving my feet in pain. These are great tips to help during the hunt for the perfect pair. I will definitely be searching for a new pair soon!
Jessica (Savory Experiments) says
September 17, 2014 at 8:00 pmI struggle to find running shoes that won’t land me with cramps and blisters. I spent an hour with an “expert” and $160 on a pair of Newtons that were no better than my $60 Nikes. Thanks for the tips, I will certainly use them on my quest to find great sneakers.
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Connie says
September 17, 2014 at 8:43 pmI like a light weight shoe with a low profile. I am not an athlete but do go to the gym. Something to go with everything I wear.
Lesley says
September 17, 2014 at 9:55 pmI have a hard time picking the right shoe to wear walking. I walk every morning and evening and the right pair of shoes makes all the difference.
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Judy Charlotte says
September 17, 2014 at 11:01 pmIf the shoe fits….. wear it!
Amanda Ripsam says
September 17, 2014 at 11:18 pmI take my husband he used to sell shoes for a while and he finds great shoes and fitting shoes is his thing just don’t tell anyone I let out his secret lol
Kay Adeola says
September 18, 2014 at 1:19 amThese are some great tips! I have been needing to get a new pair of sneakers for a few months now so when I do I will keep all this in mind.
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Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
September 18, 2014 at 3:39 amI actually went to a running clinic for a while and they gave us a lot of the same advice. There is a lot to think about when you’re looking for the right shoes.
Carmen Perez says
September 18, 2014 at 7:09 amThese are great tips. I know many people tend to go for looks (including me), and the right pair of sneakers can make all the difference in the world!
Janel (A Mom's Take) says
September 18, 2014 at 9:26 amMy husband runs and he buys new running shoes at least two or three times a year because he wears his shoes out so fast. Plus, when he runs his feet hit each other and he wears holes in the inner part of his shoes. I laugh.
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Shell says
September 18, 2014 at 9:42 amMy oldest is a runner. We always make sure to try on shoes and test them out, not just blindly go by size.
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Tiffany Steadman-Collins says
September 18, 2014 at 10:34 amI have recently started running and good shoes have made a huge difference. I am able to be successful and not worry about hurting myself.
becca says
September 18, 2014 at 11:25 amI like a good shoe that will not wear out due to my drop foot.
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Fariha @canadianmomeh.com says
September 18, 2014 at 12:25 pmGreat tips. I never go to buy my kids shoes without getting their feet properly sized. It shocks me every single time!
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Kristen from The Road to Domestication says
September 18, 2014 at 1:02 pmWell, I’m using some hot pink Nikes right now, but I’m not normally too picky – I just want them to have good support! Great post!
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Chrystal @ YUM eating says
September 18, 2014 at 1:38 pmI really miss running. It is also important that those who lose (or gain) weight reevaluate their shoes because often feet change too.
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aimee fauci says
September 18, 2014 at 1:59 pmMy favorite type of running shoe to buy is one that is padded and light. I have 2 pair but sadly rarely wear them.
Pam says
September 18, 2014 at 2:48 pmThese are great tips. I have never bought running shoes before and had no clue how to go about it!
Brett says
September 18, 2014 at 5:46 pmExcellent points. I’ve made most of the mistakes and learned my lessons the hard way :/
Liz Mays says
September 18, 2014 at 6:23 pmRock solid advice to make sure you’re getting measured by a running shoe expert and buy them somewhere where you’re getting a trained salesperson. It’s super important.
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Nicole Brady says
September 18, 2014 at 7:16 pmGreat advice! When I started doing a cross training class at the gym, I was told to invest in shoes with great sidewall support. When I started running, I was told that those weren’t the right shoes. Now I have two high quality pair – one for running and one for CT. I upgrade as they break down from use. Excellent tips!
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deb says
September 18, 2014 at 7:56 pmThanks for sharing these very helpful tips. I’m sharing them with my daughter. She just started running and needs better shoes.
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Danielle @ We Have It All says
September 18, 2014 at 8:00 pmI’m having this issue right now. I need another pair of running shoes. I don’t liek the one’s I have but I’m not sure which one’s to try.
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Danielle says
September 18, 2014 at 9:13 pmI had no idea that you could get professionally fitted for running shoes. you learn something new every single day.
Pam says
September 18, 2014 at 9:16 pmI have a wide foot so it makes it very hard for me to get a shoe in a retail store. I have had pretty good luck getting shoes that fit from Zappos and other stores like that on line and the return policy is very liberal. Great tips!
Donna says
September 18, 2014 at 9:27 pmA few years ago I decided I was going to take up running, but since have realized that I am so not a runner, but I digress… anyway, I had a good friend suggest I get fitted and thank goodness I did. I wear a 7.5 and that’s what I would have bought in a running shoe, but ended up buying an 8.5.
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Christie says
September 18, 2014 at 9:45 pmI got fitted for my first pair of running shoes a few years back. What a difference!
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Victoria says
September 18, 2014 at 10:42 pmHi April,
I have horrible feet and require good shoes but really struggle with not buying for price. I also struggle with tossing shoes that still “look” great even though they aren’t functioning properly anymore.
Thank you for the great tips on running shoes.
Blessings,
Victoria
Mom Does Reviews
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TerriAnn @ Cookies & Clogs says
September 19, 2014 at 12:06 amThanks for these tips. I never knew what to look for in running or exercise shoes so just got whatever felt nice, not knowing how the design would impact the workout. Good idea to go to a professional place to get fitted!
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Stacie says
September 19, 2014 at 6:36 amDon’t buy for looks!! Lesson learned the hard way!
Beth@FrugalFroggie says
September 19, 2014 at 7:57 amI need some new shoes. Thanks for the great tips.
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Sarah Bailey says
September 19, 2014 at 8:58 amWhat some great tips – I wouldn’t have an idea where to start on getting running shoes. x
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Marybeth Hamilton says
September 19, 2014 at 10:08 amBuying shoes that don’t fit right is the worst. Especially when you’ve tried them in the store and they seemed to feel fine. Thanks for the tips!
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Lori T. says
September 19, 2014 at 11:05 amI’m very fortunate to have several running shoe specialty stores in close proximity to my home each offering several varieties of shoes. I love running in Brooks. The list you provided is full of great tips for both beginners and frequent runners alike. Awesome post!
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Krystal's Kitsch says
September 19, 2014 at 11:34 amI just bought a pair of sketchers. I hope they do the job!
Nikki says
September 19, 2014 at 11:39 amI am horrible at buying shoes. I always buy them either a half size too small and think they’ll stretch, or too big and then they do stretch like crazy. Thanks for the tips!
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Tess says
September 19, 2014 at 12:16 pmI usually have to go through a ton of shoes before I find the right fit. I must have comfortable as my feet hurt.
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Tracey says
September 19, 2014 at 1:09 pmThese are great tips. It took me a lot of time and research to find the right shoe.
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Amanda Love says
September 19, 2014 at 7:13 pmThose are some really great tips. We actually have a class that’s given in the army for this since we do a lot of running.
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Amber NElson says
September 19, 2014 at 8:27 pmI always have to try mine on before I buy. All shoes fit differently.
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Ann Bacciaglia says
September 20, 2014 at 7:11 amI am going to start power walking and your tips are great. Thanks for sharing.
Melissa Smith says
September 22, 2014 at 6:20 amI only run occasionally, but I’ve noticed a huge difference between shoes. Oddly enough, some of the best brands I’ve never even heard of! Take that, Nike! LOL
Racquel says
September 22, 2014 at 12:01 pmI’m not a runner but my feet our so flat and hard to fit. Thanks for the great information.
Shannon Gosney says
September 22, 2014 at 3:33 pmThis is a great guide for buying shoes! I definitely agree that you don’t only buy them based on looks. Comfort is so important!
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Cam | Bibs and Baubles says
September 23, 2014 at 1:37 pmI’ve never done any of this. :-/
Granted, I’m not a runner but I do work out. Great tips.
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