Few activities put more stress on the feet and body than running. When a runner's heel strikes the ground, the body may have to absorb as much as four times its own weight! Good running shoes are the most important piece of equipment a runner can own; they are essential both for your comfort and your health. However, finding a shoe that suits your individual biomechanics and running style can be a difficult task.

Factors to Consider While Buying Running Shoes.

There is no such thing as "the best running shoe." Every runner's feet have unique needs that dictate which type of shoe might be best for them. Some factors to consider are:
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Foot structure: The structure of the foot plays a pivotal role in selecting the right pair of running shoes. The most common foot structures are normal (medium arches), flat (low or no arches) and high arches. Each different structure has a corresponding category of shoes. It is important to choose the right type of shoe in order to minimize the risk of injury.

The biomechanical movements of the foot are closely correlation to the structure of the foot. There are two basic motions the foot makes during running: pronation (an inwards rolling of the foot) and supination (an outwards rolling of the foot). Moderate pronation is natural and actually serves to cushion the foot's impact. Over pronation is an excessive inwards roll of the foot and can cause injury. Under pronation and supination don't absorb shock efficiently. Based on these factors, there are three major groups of runners:

Under pronators or supinators often have high arches. Their feet commonly don't pronate enough or may even supinate. Runners with this type of foot structure need a "neutral" shoe that will provide plenty of cushioning and not cause excessive supination.

Over pronators commonly have flatter feet with low or no arches. This type of foot structure can result in overuse injuries and shin splints. Runner's with this type of foot structure need a "motion control" shoe that will help correct excessive pronation.
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Mild pronators, who have medium arches, often have the most efficient foot structure. Their feet pronate just enough to efficiently absorb shock without risking injury. Runners with this foot structure will wear either a "neutral" or "support" shoe. Support shoes provide enough support to correct mild over pronation.

Body type: For larger runners it is possible to "bottom out" the cushioning in a running shoe. Larger runners often need to select a shoe with more a robust cushioning system to prevent injuries. However, there is a tradeoff: when you get more cushioning, the overall weight of the shoe will also tend to increase.

Running surface: The surface that you will be running on can have an impact on your shoe choice as well. If you are running predominantly off-road, it may be best to get a trail specific shoe. Trail running shoes offer more protection from rocks, upturned roots, and uneven ground.

Running shoes are the most strategic and important investment that any runner makes. It is important to do research and seek specialized guidance before buying a pair. To simplify the process get in touch with the experienced and friendly experts at Holabird Sports. Holabird Sports' professional staff provides personalized service whether you're running your third marathon or just starting to jog. Visit www.holabirdsports.com for a comprehensive look at all of their great products and services.

Posted by: Heather    Source

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