Buying the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type

Buying the right running shoe can be an overwhelming, often frustrating decision with all the different types of shoes on the market! It’s important to know what you’re looking before you even walk in the store, and I don’t mean the brand or color. Whatever you do, never buy a shoe because it’s pretty; buy a shoe because it’s the right shoe for your foot type.

How do you know what your foot type is? Take the wet test!

A simple wet test can tell you if you have a flat or high arch, and how to choose your running shoes accordingly.

1) Pour a thin layer of water into a shallow pan

2) Wet the sole of your foot.

3) Step onto a shopping bag or a blank piece of heavy paper.

4) Step off and look down

What do you see?

High Arch: If you see just your heel, the ball of your foot, and a thin line on the outside of your foot, you have a high arch, the least common foot type. You may underpronate, or supinate, which means you land on the outside of your feet. This can cause too much shock to travel up your legs. Take a look at your old running shoes: Are they more worn on the outsides? If so, you definitely underpronate and should look for a neutral or cushioned shoe.

Normal Arch: If you see about half of your arch, you have the most common foot type and are considered a normal pronator. Consider yourself lucky! You probably have few pronation problems. A neutral shoe is your best bet.

Flat Arch: If you see almost your entire footprint, you have a flat foot. You likely overpronate, which means your feet turn inward too much. Try neutral or stability shoes.

Not sure if it’s time to replace your running shoes? Find out now!

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