Choosing the proper fit of running shoes is a crucial aspect of ensuring a comfortable and injury-free running experience. Badly fitting shoes can lead to various problems. These are blisters, foot pain, and even more severe issues like shin splints or stress fractures. The right pair of running shoes provides support, stability, and cushioning tailored to your unique foot shape and running style.
Size of the appropriate running shoes
The first step to ensure a good fit of running shoes, is to determine the correct shoe size, including length and width. Also, to be fit the running shoe should have space for the foot and enough support so that the foot is not moving or sliding within the shoe.
It is common knowledge that running shoe size is typically a half size larger than your typical shoe size. For proper length, allow for at least 1/2 to 1 inch (a thumb’s width) between your longest toe and the shoe’s end.
Running Shoe Length and Width Size Charts
Measure the length and width of your feet using the tips in the video above, then consult with the following size charts to find your perfect fit.
Women’s Running Shoe Length Size Chart
Men’s Running Shoe Length Size Chart
Women’s Running Shoe Width Size Chart
Men’s Running Shoe Width Size Chart
Choose a brand
Once the the size is defined, It’s time to try on several brands and types of running shoes.
Some of us decide to trust an experienced shoe professional who can help us with a proper fit. It is the key to this part of the process.
In addition, to make sure you have the right fit, shoe consultants will help you choose shoes appropriate for your foot alignment, planned mileage and running surface. Also, depending on your gender you might look for best running shoes for man or best running shoes for women.
Gait analysis for proper fit of running shoes election
Some specialty running shoe also offer gait analysis. This can tell you how much support you need in the midfoot of your running shoe.
Depending on the gait analysis there are three categories of running shoes you should consider:
- neutral
- stability
- motion control
This helps ensure you end up with running shoe that’ll provide adequate support.
Next step is to take some time to do a trial jog or run in the shoes. This will help you determine whether you like their responsiveness and heel drop. Of course, make sure to wear the socks you plan on running.
In conclusion
The main benefit of a proper fit of running shoes is good stability and support for your foot, which will allow your desired level of running and activity. A running shoe that’s too big can cause damage to toes, and one that’s too small often causes damage to toe nails.
The right fit will allow for the following while you’re testing out the shoes:
- Your toes should have enough room to spread wide.
- Your toes shouldn’t feel narrowed or touch the end of the shoe.
- Your heel should feel comfortably cupped in the back of the shoe, which ensures that your foot won’t slip out from the back of the shoe.
