If there is one thing I believe you should invest your money in as an athlete, it’s the right pair of shoes. Whether you are training for your next race or just starting out on your fitness journey, I am here to help you find the perfect fit for both your feet and your goals!
Conquer your next race with these 7 tips!
4 Signs You Need a New Pair of Shoes
- You’ve had your shoes longer than 6 months or approx. 300 miles. Keep in mind, the right shoe can turn into the wrong shoe when it’s lost the benefits it originally had. Put in the work, wear out your shoes but don’t neglect replacing them when necessary.
- Your toenails are turning black and blue or you’re losing them entirely. This is a sign that your shoes are TOO SMALL! In worst case scenarios, wearing too small of a shoe can lead to deformities in your toes or damaged ligaments.
- You’re developing blisters and/or calluses.
- You develop plantar fasciitis (PF). If you have ever dealt with the unbearable pain that comes with PF, you are already on your way to the shoe store. Aid in the prevention of PF, and injury in general by investing in a supportive pair of shoes.
Shoes are complex but picking out the right one for you shouldn’t be. Here are a couple of things I would suggest the next time you’re shoe shopping!
Dos and Don’ts of Buying a New Pair of Shoes
- Don’t buy for looks. {Unpopular opinion}: The cutest shoe isn’t necessarily the RIGHT shoe for you. Having the cutest shoes while training won’t save you from injury or enhance your running ability. Choose support over swanky and function-able over fashionable.
- Do seek professional help. Midsole, heel cushioning, stabilizing features and saddle. Do you know what these terms mean or how to look for them? I sure don’t! My best advice would be to find someone who does! Gazelle Sports (located in Holland, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Birmingham and Northville) is my go-to source for all things running! Their employee’s expertise on shoes, gait and how each shoe can enhance your fitness routine is unlike any other.
- Don’t buy your shoes in the morning. {Fun fact} Our feet begin swelling in the morning and don’t stop until right around 4PM in the evening. By purchasing your next pair of running shoes when your feet are at their biggest, you can ensure that your shoes won’t be too tight on your feet the next time you put them on.
- Do try on your shoes in store. Not all brands are alike, not all shoes are the same and just because you wore a size 7 three years ago does not mean you still do today. Your feet, along with your stride changes over time and it’s best to make sure you are getting a flawlessly fitting pair before walking out the door.
- Do bring socks with you. Socks, too can make a big impact on how your shoe is going to fit and how much movement your feet will make within them. When you go shopping, bring along any inserts or socks that you use to get the most accurate evaluation of how the new shoes will fit your feet. My favorite pair of socks are listed below.
What I’m Currently Running In:
In short, invest in your shoes in order to invest in yourself and all the magnificent miles ahead of you.
