|
APPENDIX
E
SELECTING THE
RIGHT RUNNING SHOE
Choosing a running shoe that is
suitable for your particular type of foot can help you avoid some common
running- related injuries. It can also make running more enjoyable and let you
get more mileage out of your shoes.
Shoe manufacturers are aware that, anatomically, feet usually fall into one of
three categories. Some people have “floppy” feet that are very “loose- jointed.”
Because feet like this are too mobile, they “give” when they hit the ground.
These people need shoes that are built to control the foot’s motion. At the
other extreme are people with “rigid” feet. These feet are very tight-jointed
and do not yield enough upon impact. To help avoid impact-related injuries,
these people need shoes that cushion the impact of running. Finally, the third
type, or normal foot, falls somewhere between mobile and rigid. This type of
foot can use any running shoe that is stable and properly cushioned. Use the
chart at Figure E-1 to help you determine what kind of foot you have. Then, read
the information on special features you should look for in a shoe.
When shopping for running shoes, keep the following in mind:
• Expect to spend between $30 and $100 for a pair of good shoes.
• Discuss your foot type, foot problems, and shoe needs with a knowledgeable
salesperson.
• Check the PX for available brands and their prices before shopping at other
stores.
• Buy a training shoe, not a racing shoe.
• When trying on shoes, wear socks that are as similar as possible to those in
which you will run.
Also, be sure to try on both shoes.
• Look at more than one model of shoe.
• Choose a pair of shoes that fit both feet well while you are standing.
• Ask if you can try running in the shoes on a non-carpeted surface. This gives
you a feel for the shoes.
• Carefully inspect the shoes for defects that might have been missed by quality
control. Do the following:
- Place the shoes on a flat surface and check the heel from behind to see that
the heel cup is perpendicular to the sole of the shoe.
- Feel the seams inside the shoe to determine if they are smooth, even, and
well-stitched.
- Check for loose threads or extra glue spots; they are usually signs of poor
construction.
The shoes' ability to protect you from injury decreases as the mileage on them
increases. Record the number of miles you run with them on a regular basis, and
replace the shoes when they have accumulated 500 to 700 miles even if they show
little wear.
 |
|
