1. When purchasing athletic shoes, you will probably need to go 1/2 size bigger than your regular size. Feet tend to swell when you run. Be warned. Not all brands of athletic shoes are sized the same.
2. If you use orthotics or orthopedic insoles, purchase athletic shoes with these inserts in mind! You may need a bigger shoe to accommodate the orthotic device. The same goes for athlete's who wear particularly thick socks.
3. Purchase shoes that cater to your foot type. People with flat feet should look for athletic shoes that promote stability. Often these shoes will have packaging that mentions 'motion control'. People with high arches, on the other hand, should look for shoes that advertise added cushioning or support, and shock absorption.
4. If you run every day, consider purchasing two pairs of shoes and alternating between them. Using two pairs ensures that your shoes dry thoroughly between runs, which prevents unsightly foot problems such as athlete's foot and fungal toenail infections. If you're unable to purchase two pairs of shoes at one time, remove your insoles after physical activity to help your shoes dry faster.
5. Test your running shoes for a week after you buy them. If blisters form or the shoes cause hot spot on your feet, don't put up with the foot pain! You may need a different pair of shoes.
6. Replace running shoes every 300 ' 400 miles. This will ensure that your foot is getting the orthopedic support it needs.
7. Buy athletic shoes specific to your sport. Follow these guidelines:
o Racing shoes: Racing shoes are extremely lightweight and provide little cushioning or added features. When it comes to racing shoes, less is more.
o Cross-country running shoes (or trail shoes): These heavy-duty shoes are meant for uneven surfaces. Look for shoes with toe bumpers and solid stitching. You don't want them to break down.
o Walking shoes: Walking shoes should have an upturned toe that helps you to roll through your gait (like your foot does normally when you walk barefoot). They may have less cushioning than running shoes and should be fairly lightweight.
o Aerobic Shoes: These athletic shoes should be lightweight and should provide added support beneath the ball of the foot.
o Cycling Shoes: Cycling shoes be lightweight and have stiff soles. They should fit tightly to your feet and provide traction on the sole of the shoe so that you can maintain a firm grip on the pedals.
About the Author:
Jane Barron works for OddShoeFinder.com,a free online website that helps people find mismatched footwear.If you are looking for diabetic shoes ,mismatched footwear ,different sized feet or information useful to polio survivors, people with diabetes foot problems, and people with foot size differences,visit oddshoefinder.com