Saturday, July 14, 2007

Running Shoes for Beginners

Not all running shoes are the same, and when you're just starting out you won't want to spend a fortune on running shoes. You'll be looking at the budget end of the market for a pair of beginner running shoes. This does not mean that they will be cheap and rubbish, but there will be less technology in the shoes as compared to the more expensive kinds.

In fact, a beginner runner can pick up a good quality running shoe for under £40 in the UK. In the USA beginning running shoes are probably even cheaper still. All of the top brands are worth looking at -- Adidas, Saucony, Nike -- but I would recommend Asics as being of particular value.

The brand of the shoe is not important, though. As long as it gives you sufficient support for your build, has good cushioning but isn't too soft, and is a good fit -- it should be a good choice. Also, if you go to a specialist running shop staffed by runners you will also get some good advice in choosing the right pair of running shoes for beginners.

As a beginner you may only be running 10 to 20 miles a week so a good quality pair of shoes should last you a long time. As you become more experienced you may find it necessary to progress to different shoes, but there is no need to rush. Too much running too soon will lead to injury so be careful.

It is also good advice to read all you can about running shoes, and to shop around. Browse the internet for advice, and good bargains if it helps. When you get to a running shop you will then have a good idea about what you want, and not get sold a pair of running shoes that you do not really need.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

A good idea is to check out the model of the running shoe. I hear that a model may not be structured to the favor of a person's foot: meaning that a person with hammertoes or a curled 5th toe may experience pain with some of these shoes due to the design of the shoe.

Chris Ballard said...

There are literally hundreds of online shoe stores, so it definitely pays to find the place with the best deals for. Remember, though, buying a shoe that is right for you is still more important than saving a few dollars.