Avoid these running shoe buying mistakes

Posted On September 21, 2021

Running shoes are the most important gear for runners. So a perfect fit is important when buying your running shoes. But with so many brands and models, it is tempting to simplify the selection process and just buy whatever suits your fancy at the shoe store.

Buying the wrong shoe can lead to injury. It can be a sore foot, dead toenails, blisters, knee pain, shin splits and others. These injury can prevent you from running as you let youself recover.

Here are the top mistakes runners make when buying their running shoes. Avoid them.

Not Knowing Your Proper Shoe size

Different brands have different sizing. It doesn’t mean that a size 10 in one brand is the same as the size 10 in another brand. Be sure to try them out or check the sizing guide. Pick a half size bigger to give some space for your feet to expand after long periods of running or walking.

Focusing on Appearance and Fashion

Don’t pick a shoe because of its color or because it is worn by your favorite celebrity. Know your foot type instead and pick a shoe according to your type. Do the wet foot test to quickly check your foot type.

Not Using Socks When Trying out New Running Shoes

Since you will probably be using socks while running, bring along your socks when trying out new running shoes. Even a thin sock adds up to the overall foot size. It may fit well in the store when you tried it on without the socks, but it will feel tight once you try it again with the socks on. Having your socks while trying on a new pair will give you a better idea of the fit and comfort before making a purchase.

Relying Too Much on Shoe Reviews

Customer reviews from online stores are great. But it doesn’t mean that what works for them will work for you as well. Check also if the reviewer and the website is reliable. The wearer might not even be a runner. Instead, visit a reliable running website for reviews and recommendations.

Avoiding Running Specialty Stores

Department stores are convenient but they can’t provide the best recommendations on running shoes. Don’t be intimidated to go to running specialty stores. The staff are better trained for a wide range of selection. They will be glad to answer newbie questions from beginners.

Buying a Pair In The Morning

It is not common knowledge that our feet swells as the day progress. But as we stand, walk or run, our feet expands slightly. So it is smallest in the morning and largest in the evening. Then it shrinks back as we sleep with our feet off the ground. Thus, it is best to buy shoes later in the afternoon.

Always Buying The Newest Model

Newer models doesn’t always mean they are better shoes for you. New models might have some tweaks on the design and the geometry that can impact your runs. If you want a new brand or a new model, you should still test them out if they still matches your foot type.