Running shoes buying guide

How to pick the best pair of running shoes for your foot type
 
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  • Updated:10 Mar 2008
 

06.Why change shoes?

Generally speaking, a good shoe will last for approximately 900 to 1100km of running, depending on the intensity of your training.

In most cases, the midsole will wear out long before the outer sole, losing its protective cushioning properties. When that happens, you may notice new aches or blistering in your legs and feet, or start to feel the irregularities of the ground under your feet.

One way to check for remaining shoe life is to hold each end of the shoe your hands and twist it in opposite directions. If the shoe twists easily, it might be a sign that it’s lost its stability, and it’s time to replace your favourite runners.

CHOICE verdict

  • Foot type It’s important to understand your foot type in order to pick the right pair of running shoes. You can do this most accurately by visiting a podiatrist or a specialist running store. To locate the closest running store in your area, go to coolrunning.com.au.
  • 'The best' pair of shoes This depends on your foot shape and running style. What works for someone else won’t necessarily work for you.
  • Comfort Shoes should feel immediately comfortable and require no wearing in. There should be at least 1 to 1.5cm at the end of the shoe, and it should feel snug without being too tight.
  • Price Most mid-range running shoes ($150 to $200) will provide you with excellent stability and cushioning properties. The biggest difference you get by investing in a more expensive shoe is extra durability.
 

 

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