Have you ever experienced getting a new pair of shoes which seemed right when you were being fitted in the store and yet right after the first run it felt so tight and uncomfortable? This is commonly experienced when the purchase, and therefore the fitting, happens during the earlier part of the day. The feet usually swell in the late afternoon or towards the evening after a long day’s work. This being the case, it is highly recommended that shoe-shopping be scheduled at around this time. Better yet, to simulate the condition that its use is anticipated for, if possible, try getting a new pair right after a run. This way your feet would have been exposed to the pressure and stress from running and would be of the size and condition that the new pair of shoes would have to accommodate. Thus your running shoe size would most likely be 1/2 to one size bigger than your normal shoe size. This is especially important if you’re buying running shoes for cross country running since these are often used for longer runs.
Another good tip is to be fitted for new shoes wearing a pair of socks, the kind that will be used for running. Again, this mimics the shape of the feet to get close to the right-sized shoes.
Insoles or inserts are also another factor for consideration. It would be good to search for your new pair of shoes wearing your preferred insoles as well, especially if you use a set to compensate for comfort or for health issues. Considered as orthotics, insoles are the inner materials of a shoe that are in touch with your soles and are sometimes removable or replaceable. Customized ones in particular meet the needs of a particular individual and helps relieve discomfort brought about by runner’s knee for instance, or, arch pain. It is possible to find a comfortable pair of insoles that you refuse to let go of so if you plan on using these along with your new running gear, better bring them during your shoe-shopping. While you’re shopping, be sure to look at other clothing for running. Tennis shorts are a popular and comfortable option for jogging and running during warm weather.
Tempting as it may be to decide based on the design and overall look of a pair, do resist it. Once you have made the selection or narrowed down your choices to a couple or so, give these a try by walking or even running within the store premises. Feel fee to consult or ask the opinion of the store specialist for some tips or discuss with him issues that you have about your feet or your old pair. And speaking of, if this shoe shopping is for a replacement pair, better to bring the old ones along as these will give indications on areas or features that need to be retained or replaced with the new set.
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