When you firststart running, you’ve got the option to wear any shoes that are comfortable.
What makes a running shoe different from any other shoe?
These are OK in a pinch but arent ideal.
So a running shoe needs to allow (and maybe subtly shape) that rolling motion.
It also calls for replacing your running shoes regularly, at least every 600 to 800 miles.
(Shoe companies would prefer you replaced them even sooner.
I havethe full story on the real lifespan of running shoes here.)
Search or ask around to find good running stores in your area.
We have alist of online stores herethat fit the bill.
These are the biggest ones to look out for.
Most running shoes are neutral, unless they say otherwise.
Who should try them: If you dont know where to start, start here.
Examples:Asics Novablast,Saucony Endorphin,Nike Pegasus,Brooks Ghost.
Examples:Brooks Adrenaline,Asics Gel Kayano.
These have only been on the market since about 2017, but have quickly become popular among competitive runners.
People really do seem to run faster when they wear them.
Who should try them: Experienced runners who want a boost, and have some cash to burn.
Even though plated shoes make you faster, theyre not a good choice for most beginner runners.
Theyre also the most expensive bang out of shoe out there.
Examples:Nike Alphafly,Asics Metaspeed Sky.
And then there are track spikes, meant for athletes who compete on actual oval tracks.
Beginners and even intermediate runners dont need to worry about this category.
Examples:Nike Streakfly,Altra Escalante Racer.
Some are waterproof or water-resistant.
Trail shoes often look like hiking boots (minus the tall ankle).
Examples:Hoka Speedgoat,Saucony Peregrine.
They arent very popular anymore, but theyre still out there.
Examples:Merrell Vapor Glove,Xero Mesa.
Are those shoes any different from each other, aside from the size ranges they come in?
Mens shoes are typically widerthan their womens counterparts (at equivalent sizes).
Mens and womens shoes may be made with slightly different shapes.
For example, womens shoes sometimes have a narrower heel.
This will depend on the brand, though.
All of this may vary by brand, so dont take these generalities as ironclad rules.
In most brands, a mens 6.5 is a womens 8. but thefitis entirely personal.
This may or may not be the one that feels most comfortable when you first try it on.
Not everybody finds this necessary, though.)
All that said, you dont have to ignore the salespersons advice.
