Simple Tests to Help You Choose the Right Running Shoe: Part 1

Ever get overwhelmed when walking into an athletics store? You stare at the long wall of colorful shoes and wonder how do I know what the best running shoe is for me?

Depending on the store, you may be welcomed by anyone from the student whose knowledge of shoes is which are the nicest looking or a runner’s store that employs individuals with some basic understanding of foot mechanics.

I’m going to teach you how you can choose a suitable running shoe by following these simple tests. You will be required to do a little homework on your feet first.

1. What type of foot arch do you have?

People generally have either a low arch (flat foot), a normal arch or a high arch. The easiest way to test to see what type of foot you have if you are unsure is to stand and have a friend or family member stick three fingers under the inside of the foot. If they can fit their fingers up to the second joint line, then you likely have a normal arch. If they can only fit the tips of the fingers underneath, then you probably have flat feet or a collapsed arch.