Running & Jogging

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging

How To Buy the Right Running Shoes

by Karen Lee Richards
for About.com

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

5 of 6

Consider What Kind Of Running You Do.

If you are running primarily on grass, trails, or any surface that is slippery, you may want to consider getting trail shoes. These shoes usually have added traction, durability, and stability; these shoes will help you get through the mud and leaves and, somewhat, the water with less slipping and sliding. If you run trails a large portion of the time, you may want to consider trail running shoes. However, it's always a good idea to keep a regular pair of running shoes around for when you want to hit the roads.

If you are a a hardcore competitive racer, you're crazy! But that aside, you may want to invest in a good pair of racing flats. These shoes are made to be fast and flexible, but do increase the risk of injury. These shoes should only be used DURING races, except to break them in, of course.

If you are a casual runner who usually runs on roads, sidewalks, or tracks, you don't need to worry about this question at all.

  1. Consider how often you run and for how long.
  2. Are your feet flat?
  3. Are your feet high-arched?
  4. Do you have normal feet?
  5. Consider What Kind Of Running You Do.
  6. Go To Your Local Running Store.

<< Previous | Next >>

Explore Running & Jogging

About.com Special Features

Do I Have Allergies?

Are your symptoms merely irritating, or could they be a sign of allergies? More >

Preventing Headaches

The best way to treat a headache is to prevent it. Learn how. More >

Running & Jogging

  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Running & Jogging
  4. Shoes/Apparel/Gear
  5. Running Shoes
  6. Buying Running Shoes - How to Shop for Running Shoes

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.