| Buying the Right Sports Shoe |  |
Is there such a thing as the perfect shoe? Are your shoes
perfect for your feet? Maybe. Maybe not.
Shoe companies would have us believe that their shoes do
everything for any foot. That motion control shoes will
manage control of your foot inside the shoe and how your
foot lands. That cushioning shoes will cushion you whatever
your size, and that supportive shoes will provide the
support to keep your feet in the correct form for perfect
landings and push-offs. Then there are the combination shoes
that offer more than one thing.
In reality, shoes have become more advanced in the past few
years. Stronger midsoles to help with pronation and
supination control; longer lasting outersoles; energy return
in the form of air, gel, suspension, plastics, etc.; and
Gore-Tex fabrics and other moisture controlling materials.
But just like a new car that becomes used the moment it
leaves the sales lot, your shoes lose much of their value
too. When you set out to train or race, there are certain
things you expect from your shoes. Some of these can be
corrected or repaired. For other problems a new pair of
shoes is a better bet.
First, the right shoe will stay together and not fall apart.
Not too much trouble there unless you are using old shoes
that should have been retired months ago. Take a good look
at your shoes. Turn them from side to side and check the
stitching and seams. Change the laces for worn spots. Why
chance a broken shoe lace? Are the uppers still firmly
attached to the midsoles and outersoles? Repair any worn
areas. If they cannot be restitched, toss the shoes.
Secondly, the soles should grip the terrain on which you
will be traveling. Not too much trouble if every course was
one type of terrain. Here you will have to decide on the
best sole for your intended sport. Turn your shoes over and
look at the tread. Is there still good tread left? Is the
tread even over the whole sole? If there is any doubt, maybe
it is time for a new pair of shoes.
Third, how do they feel on your feet? Is the inside
stitching still holding up? Are there places where the seams
rub your foot and cause friction and blisters? Does the
rear of the shoe have a notch for the Achilles tendon or
does it rub you wrong? Is there enough room in the toe box?
Is the forefoot wide enough for your foot? A pinched
forefoot and pinched toes can cause blisters, black
toenails, and metatarsal pain. If you have Morton's foot
where the second toe is longer than the big toe, you need a
generous toebox.
Fourth, how are the insoles? If they're the ones that came
with the shoes they are probably flat and offer no support
and cushioning. Do they have a cupped heel that cradles your
foot? If they are replacement insoles, do they fit correctly
inside your shoes without space between the insole and the
shoe's inside material? Insoles are relatively inexpensive
and can be a good investment for healthy feet.
Fifth, are they the right shoes for your feet? Did you buy
then because a friend wears them or an ad convinced you that
they were the best thing since sliced bread? When shopping
for shoes, buy those that are right for your specific feet
for the sport of your choice. Keep in mind that for many of
us, one foot is slightly larger than the other. You may have
problem areas such as toes, arches, bunions, weak ankles,
etc. You may need more cushioning, or support, or motion
control. You may need shoes with higher uppers to provide
ankle support. If you have any doubt about your current
shoes, compare them to a new pair. Wearing an ill-fitting
pair of shoes or shoes may lead to foot problems that will
cost you the race.
Finally, if you are going shoe shopping, never buy shoes
without trying them on and walking around or running in
them. Most stores will allow you to test shoes with a short
run outside. Ask whether you can do so. Compare several
models of shoes before making your purchase. You would be
surprised how different they can feel.
John Vonhof is the author of Fixing Your Feet: Prevention
and Treatments for Athletes which has helped thousands of
athletes, from the casual weekend warrior to extreme athletes.
http://www.FootworkPub.com
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