How to Find the Best Running Shoes

There is no single "Best Running Shoe". Everyone has different needs, and the shoe that you need to buy will depend on several things:

- Your Biomechanics
- Your Weight
- The Surfaces You Run On
- The Shape of Your Feet
- The Number of Miles You Run per Week
- How Fast You Run


All of these differences mean that your ideal shoe can be a horrible choice for someone else. This also means that you can't just walk into a shoe store in the mall and pick the shoes that look good.

Shoes are generally divided into three main categories:

- Neutral
- Stability
- Motion Control

The idea is to find out which of these categories you fit into and use that as your starting point for finding the shoes that fit you best.

The Wet Test

To find out what category you fit into, you first need to know the shape of your foot. To figure this out, lay some newspaper on your floor, get your feet (or one foot) wet, and walk across it. Then look at your footprint and match it to one of these profiles:

The High Arch

This print leaves a very narrow band or even an empty space between the forefoot and the heel. A curved, highly arched foot is typically underpronated, and because the foot does not pronate enough, it is not a good shock absorber. The Best Running Shoes for this foot type are Neutral Shoes (also called Cushioned). They provide plenty of flexibility and encourage foot motion. Stay away from motion control or stability shoes, because they will reduce mobility.Free download software

The Average Arch

Average arched feet have a normal-sized arch and will leave a footprint with a flare. However, the forefoot and heel will be connected by a broad band. These feet land on the outside of the heel and roll inwards slightly through the step to absorb shock. This motion is more efficient than the high-arched foot, and does not need a motion control shoe. The Best Running Shoes for this type of foot are Stability Shoes.

The Low Arch

The low arch leaves a print that shows almost the entire sole of the foot. This indicates a foot that overpronates, meaning that it strikes on the outside of the heel and rolls in. This can cause overuse injuries over time. The Best Running Shoes for this foot are motion control shoes. They have features to reduce the degree of pronation, which eases use on the foot and prevents injury.

Putting It Together

Once you know the foot type you have and have determined the shoe category you need, it's time to start shopping. All good running shoes will list what type they are. Once you are in the right category of shoe, a lot depends on personal preference and trying shoes out. Head to the store, try on a few different brands, and pick the one that feels the best.