How to choose the right runner for you?
Choosing a new pair of runners can be overwhelming. Sometimes we look at our old and faithful runners and think maybe they’ll last me another 12 months, they don’t look too bad? Think again. Runners will only hold up on average for 600-800 kilometres. So if you run around 5 kilometres, three times a week and do no other training in your runners, then they should last you approximately 12 months. However, if you do this amount of running as well as using them every weekend then there life will be much shorter.
At the 12 month mark a shoe often looks in good condition from the outside, but it is the midsole that we cannot see that begins to break down and lose support. The shoe’s ability to absorb shock and provide cushioning begins to deteriorate as the shoe gets older and more worn.
Once we have come to terms with the fact that we need a new pair of runners where do we go? The bright lights and fancy colours on the shelves in the footwear stores may mesmerise us for a moment but it is important to keep our cool and that we don’t just choose a shoe based on it’s appealing colours.
Even your favourite shoe that you have worn for the last season may have changed. It may have changed weight; some will even try to drop by 20 grams, it may have changed material and therefore support. It is important that when choosing a runner you are aware of the support you require. Some runners are classed as neutral; providing cushioning and some are considered in the control category; providing differing levels of support. A runner with a higher arch and neutral running gait might be more suited to a neutral style of runner whereas a runner with a flatter foot and a pronated (rolled in) gait might be more suited to a control style of runner.
The first step before lunging head first in to the world of running shoe reviews on Google, is to have your gait (walking and running pattern) assessed by a podiatrist or by a footwear store with the capability and experience in assessing gait. This way you can be advised on a shoe that is best suited to your needs. This will include your running style, training surfaces, distance and goals. Then you can be confident that your money will be well spent- let’s be honest, the latest pair of high end runners cost a little more than a loaf of bread. You want to make sure you will like it before you buy it!
If you are serious about running then get your gait professionally assessed by The Podiatry Group and give yourself the best possible chance to enjoy your runs with the comfort and reliability of a good shoe.