Running
Shoes
Buying the
correct running shoe for your feet is the most important decision
any runner can make. Running shoes are the difference
between winning and losing, between injury and comfort.
Each time your foot strikes the ground you are applying approximately
1.5 to 3.0 times your bodyweight in force to each leg and
your spine. The shoe is the primary means by which to
protect your body from injury. It is also important
to run on soft surfaces and plan your running with a good
variety of workouts. This page should help you find
more information on running shoes, shop wisely, be an informed
consumer and test your shoes as much as possible before buying.
If you do not like them after purchase, return them as soon
as possible. Return policies differ between companies.
Cross
Trainers
It is not recommended to use cross trainers for running.
They do not have enough flexibility to maintain proper running
form or enough heel support to protect you during heel strikes.
I recommend cross trainers for weight lifting only.
Racing
Flats
Flats are lightweight running shoes designed for competition.
I recommend their use and purchase only when you have the
personal experience to use them properly. Improper use
can lead to injuries for inexperienced runners.
Racing
Spikes
Spikes are used in competitive track events. You only
use them enough in practice to feel comfortable using them
in a meet. They are not allowed on most tracks other
than during competition since they produce a greater level
of wear than other running shoes.
New
Balance Fit
Part of the New Balance Corporate Web Site. As always
excellent information on proper fitting shoes and the terminology
New Balance uses, some proprietary some standard.
Supination
(Under-Pronation)
An under-rotation of the foot inward during the running gait.
Merriam Webster defines supination as the rotation of the
forearm and hand so that the palm faces forward or upward
and the radius lies parallel to the ulna; also : a corresponding
movement of the foot and leg.
Pronation
The normal inward motion of a foot during the running gait.
Excessive inward motion is referred to as over-pronation.
Supination (under-pronation) is the result of a lack of normal
inward motion.
Merriam Webster defines pronation in these two parts
1 : rotation of the hand and forearm so that the
palm faces backwards or downwards
2 : rotation of the medial bones in the midtarsal
region of the foot inward and downward so that in walking
the foot tends to come down on its inner margin
Super
Runner's Shop
A great place to purchase shoes in terms of assistance with
choosing the right shoe is Super Runner's Shop, of course
their prices are basically list. It is worth a visit
to talk to them about the shoes, then visit a few other stores
to compare the selection and prices. It is not a good
idea to purchase running shoes after only one visit to a shoe
store. Take your time and invest wisely. I recommend
rotating two shoes to increase shoe performance and life.
New
York Road Runner's Club
The Road Runners are the largest running organization in the
world. They produce many local running events including
the New York City Marathon, the largest marathon in the USA.
Visit their site for a large variety of information on running,
competitions, and running shoes.
Road
Runner's Sports
Great mail order and web order company, large selection and
good prices. Their site and their catalog are good tools
for learning about running shoes and gear.
Nike
Running
Nike was originally founded as a running shoe company and,
until Michael Jordan, that was their main focus. Let
us not forget the workers in China making the shoes; however,
almost every shoe company has their shoes made in Chinese
factories. The factories pollute the town(s,) have long
hours, and may employ persons whom we would consider "too
young." There is a Niketown on 57th Street which
generally sells at list price only; however, they have the
largest selection of Nike's anywhere outside of Oregon.
If you are looking for a hard to find product or size Niketown
might be your best choice.
New
Balance
They also started out as a running shoe manufacturer with
all products made in the USA. There are a couple of
New Balance stores in New York, including one on 42nd, between
5th and 6th. Their key benefits are width sizing and shoes
for people over 170 pounds. If you weigh over 170, they have
a large selection of shoes for heavy runners, also known as
"Clydesdales!"
Reebok
Has made some cutting edge changes in running shoes over the
years.
Brooks
Also know for width sizing and support for Clydesdales.
Avia
Re-branded for 2003, some new technology worth considering
and a larger focus on women's shoes.
Saucony
Some people swear by them, always a strong supporter of women's
running.
Adidas
Their competitive shoes are fairly popular. The original
athletic shoe company from Germany.
Asics
Asics-Tiger has been a top name in running shoes for many
years.
Mizuno
Carl Lewis's Italian shoe maker. Great sprint spikes. |
