What to Look for When Buying Running or Walking Shoes
Buy your shoes in the evening since your feet have naturally swollen to their maximum size.
Running shoes come in various widths from narrow (2A) to extra wide (4E), with widths B, D, 2E, and sizes in-between. Women’s sizes come in the narrower widths, whereas men’s sizes tend to be wider. Don’t worry if the shoe that fits you correctly was made for the opposite sex. The design is essentially the same.
Selection of men’s running shoes
Your chiropodist will advise you if you require a running/walking shoe from the following categories: minimalist cushioning, neutral cushioning; maximum cushioning; mild stability; moderate stability or motion control.
We will give the most updated list of running/walking shoes available in each category to help you pick the right running/walking shoe.
For example, if we recommended that you will function best in a neutral cushioning shoe is your category, we will advise you to try on all the shoe brands available in that category until one brand feels comfortable. If you need more on the right running shoe you can go to this page on How to determine the right running shoe for you?
Make sure you select a running/walking shoe that feels right for your foot.
- Start with the narrowest width (2A), in your particular size. This should grip your heel firmly. A tight forefoot can cause numbness.
- Walk around the store and check how your feet feel in the forefoot. If the forefoot feels narrow, then move to the next width, and so on.
- Do not skip a particular width. If the salesperson in the store does not have the full range of widths in your size, tell him/her to order them or go to another store.
- To achieve maximum motion control, the heel counter must fit snugly, but not at the expense of a tight forefoot. If you buy a wide shoe that feels comfortable, without starting with the narrowest width, you may lose the control that a snug heel counter may provide.
- Make sure you wear the thickness of socks that you intend to wear in your shoe. It does make a difference to the fit.
- Do not make any size adjustments for your orthotics when buying the shoes. Your orthotics will replace the removable insoles that are provided with the shoes.
- If you need to visualize your shoe fit, you can take the insole out of your new running shoe and stand on it to see if tit is the right length and width. The width of your thumb should be the distance between you longest toe and the end of the insole. The widest part of the ball of your foot should be within the the widest part of the insole.
- After buying your new shoes, keep the receipt. Do not wear them outside or get them dirty until your chiropodist can check if the shoes have been correctly fitted. You will need to keep the receipt for a refund or exchange.