Welcome to the Team RunRun Community, where we strive to empower and support runners of all levels in their pursuit of excellence. I’m Coach Miles Bennett-Smith, and in this training tips article, I am thrilled to kick off a series dedicated to one of the most crucial aspects of preparing to pound the pavement: footwear. Today we’ll focus on 7 key tips for choosing your first pair of running shoes.
As a coach and runner, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the right pair of shoes. Unfortunately, part of this comes from watching way too many people out on the trails and roads putting in mile after mile in the WRONG footwear – and honestly, it’s not their fault! Carbon plates, cushioning, colorways, pronation, stack height, brands on brands on brands – buying your first or 100th pair can be exciting, but also overwhelming, considering the multitude of options available in the market.
Today’s blog post is targeted a bit more toward those at the beginning of your running journey, as I will help guide you through some dos and don’ts of making that first (real) running shoe decision and setting you up for long-term success in your running journey. Let’s lace ‘em up!
1. DO… Get Fitted at a Specialty Running Store
Sometimes it’s just this simple – if you want running shoes, go to a running shoe store, at least to start. Because when it comes to buying running shoes, one size does not fit all. It’s vital to visit a specialty running store (like Fleet Feet, RoadRunner Sports, Heartbreak Hill, San Francisco Running Company, Brooklyn Running Company, and many many more), and get properly fitted by knowledgeable staff. They will analyze your foot type, arch shape, and running style (sometimes with a camera, or on a treadmill) to recommend shoes that provide the necessary support and comfort. In the golden age of online shopping, trying shoes on in-person with a salesperson is not some pretentious perk or unnecessary luxury, it’s legitimately important! If they don’t have the perfect brand/fit/colorway, you can always order from them online or even go to another shop. But finding a true personalized fitting ensures a better fit, reduces the risk of injuries, and enhances your overall running experience.
2. DON’T… Choose Based on Brand or Look Alone
While flashy designs or hot new colorways may catch your eye, it’s crucial not to prioritize aesthetics or loyalty over functionality. Sports marketing is big business, but remember, your running shoes are a performance tool; their primary purpose is to support your feet and enhance your running mechanics. While certain brands may have a deservedly strong reputation, it’s a long list, and it’s more essential to consider the individual shoes especially as lines within the same brand can vary significantly. Look beyond the exterior and focus on features such as cushioning, stability, and durability that align with your specific needs. If you’re dying to support a specific brand, wear their shirts or bras or hats or socks even, but choose shoes based on what feels the best for your feet. And if you’re truly desperate (or still flush with pandemic cash), many obscure colors/designs can be found or even customized online.
3. DO… Consider Your Training Goals and Environment
Are you aiming to complete your first 5K, conquer a marathon, or simply enjoy regular runs to maintain fitness? Your training goals should influence your shoe selection. If you’re a beginner or focusing on shorter distances to start (2-5 miles per run), you may prioritize comfort and cushioning. For longer distances (7+ miles), you might lean towards shoes that offer more responsiveness and support for endurance running. See if you can hone in on what kind of surface you will be doing most of your training on as well – hard packed dirt? Asphalt? A track? These are important answers to questions your shoe salesperson should ask, but you also want to share early in the conversation.
4. DON’T… Be Nervous or Hide Who You Are (A New Runner 🙂
Yes, you might be a novice – but so was everyone when they first started running! Don’t let the intimidation of newness overwhelm you, and try not to slip either into a false sense of confidence (i.e. pretending to know more than you do) or underselling your own knowledge (especially about your body). Have an open mind, and ask lots of questions, as this is a great opportunity to learn a lot from potential experts who have worked with a lot of different feet and shoes. But if the sales team pushes you in a direction that you don’t feel comfortable, speak up.
5. DO… Brush Up On Basic Running Shoe Options Before You Go
As a natural follow-up to No. 4, make sure you’re putting yourself in a good position to optimize your experience at the shoe store. Lots can be learned from reading a few articles on foot type / arch stability (what’s the difference between stability, neutral, minimalist, motion control, maximal). Ask a few friends who run for their opinions, not to hold as Gospel but because it can be good contextual information. Get comfortable with some of the types of designs, brands and prices that are common in the marketplace, so that the emotional connection to any one element isn’t quite so heightened when you’re in the moment at the store.
6. Don’t… Rush Your Decision
When choosing your first pair of running shoes patience is key. Set aside an hour to go to the store – make sure you take the time to try on multiple models and brands, and go for a test run in-store or on the sidewalk if at all possible. Pay attention to how the shoes feel on your feet, as it’s one of the most consistent predictors of overall fit even after just a minute or two. Tune into the level of comfort they provide, and whether they accommodate any specific foot (pronation, supination) issues you may have. Rushing the decision may result in choosing the wrong shoe, leading to discomfort and potential injuries down the road.
7. BONUS DO… Buy At Least One Nice Pair of Running Socks
Relatively straightforward, but often overlooked. Socks are perhaps even more differentiated by personal preference, but just make sure you’re running in a sock that was designed for running and covers your heel!
Conclusion
Choosing your first pair of running shoes is a significant step on your running journey, but no matter how much you think you know or don’t know, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your unique needs and goals. Remember, investing in the right pair of shoes will enhance your comfort, support your feet, and contribute to your overall running enjoyment and performance.
In the next articles of this series, we’ll dig deeper into some of the specific elements of marathon footwear, shoe rotation, and speeeeeed. Stay tuned!
Miles is a coach with Team RunRun. To learn more about him or to work with him, check out his coach profile.