Learn how much are running shoes and how to find the right pair
The beauty of running is that anyone can do it anywhere in the world. No special equipment required.
However, unless you?re ready to join the barefoot trend, you?ll find it useful to own a pair of quality running shoes.
If you?re nervously wondering how much are running shoes, have no fear. Savvy shoppers can score brand name running shoes by keeping an eye out for the sales, which happen frequently because new models come out often.
The average cost of running shoes ranges from $60 to $150. When it comes to the cheaper end of the spectrum, you often get what you pay for. If you?re new to running, keep in mind that good shoes are built with technology designed to support your stride and reduce injuries. Running shoes in the $100 range are typically considered to be ?good quality?. Shoes that run over $130 have the more specialized technology that’s often unnecessary.
The three main types of running shoes are those with motion control, stability or cushion. Take a close look at your arches to help figure out your personal pronation type and which shoe will work best for your foot type.
- Motion control shoes have extra structure for controlling pronation. (Runner’s World offers this overview of pronation). Runners with flat arches benefit from the increased support that motion control shoes provide.
- Stability shoes have lighter structure than motion control, and more cushion on the midsoles. These are great for runners with normal or mildly flat arches.
- Cushion shoes absorb shock best because they have more cushioning. These are a good fit for people with a normal- to high arch because they offer the most flexibility and don?t have the constructing control features of the other types of shoes.
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There are several factors to keep in mind in addition to the cost of running shoes. Before you start shopping, go for a short run in whatever shoe you have just to gather information. Pay close attention to your stride. Do you land on your heel or the front of your foot? This will help you determine where you need support the most.
Tips on selecting a running shoe
- Answer the questions on Runner’s World Shoe Advisor for recommendations.
- Consider going up by half a size for a little extra wiggle room. You don?t want to be swimming in your shoes, but if they?re too tight you could lose a toe nail or get blisters. Plus many runners notice that their feet swell when they run so getting a slightly larger size is often necessary.
- How often you should rotate running shoes is a subject of much debate in the running world. Shoe companies say you should get new shoes every 5- to 6 months or every 500 miles. However, many runners agree that if shoes are still in good shape after this much wear and tear, and your feet aren?t hurting, there?s no need to get a new pair.
- Look beyond the flashy colors. In truth, the only time you?re going to pay attention to how your shoes look is when they?re at eye level on the store shelf. Once you own them, all that matters is how they feel.
- Pay attention to weight because some shoes are extremely heavy. It?s easy to overlook weight when you?re bouncing around in a store, but if you?re a light foot you?ll regret buying bricks from the very first mile.
- Opt for mesh. While mesh shoes can look a little flimsy when you inspect them in the store, these babies will keep your feet from overheating and the sturdy fabric doesn?t tear.
- When you fall in love with a pair of running shoes, go back for another pair before they get discontinued.
- Head to the store. Sales associates at running or sporting stores are familiar with shoe technology and they?re accustomed to helping new runners who may not know what to look for in a shoe.
Choosing the wrong type of running shoe can lead to injury just as quickly as buying the cheapest pair. Besides, cheap shoes aren’t so cheap if they cause injury and you have to replace them in a few weeks. Good running shoes are worth the money. You’re feet will thank you.
References:
Runner’s World
Our Health Network: Pronation