How Often Do Runners Wear The Wrong Size Shoeand Why
About three-fourths of the people Grays lab tests are wearing the wrong size shoe, mostly too smallby anywhere from a half-size to two sizes. Bowersock, too, frequently sees new customers wearing ill-fitting kicks. Either theyve become accustomed to the improper size or theyve been uncomfortable for a while and never could really identify the source of the issue, she says.
Its not that runners are dim or masochisticjust that sizing is confusing. Shoes work more like running apparel than bras theres no standard guideline for what sizing numbers mean, Gray says. So a size 10 in a Brooks Adrenaline GTS could be very different from a size 10 Nike Pegasus. Whats worse, running shoe sizes arent even always consistent within brands, meaning one model fits differently than another even if they come in the same kind of box.
Sizes can shift, too, when a company releases a new version of shoe. Sometimes it doesn’t fit the same because the material changes or how they did the construction of the forefoot changesand every time they change the forefoot, you can change the length of the shoe, Vincent says.
In some cases, shoes in wider widthsmarked with letter from D onward for women, or E onward for menhave the same size midsole but merely add extra fabric. However, other companies add extra room to the footbed to accommodate feet that are thicker front to back, Vincent says.
Running Shoe Fit Tips
| Measure your feet each year, as they can change size as you age | The foot arch may lower over time, resulting in a longer foot, or a stronger foot may cause the arch to rise, resulting in a shorter size. Weight changes and activity level can also influence foot size. |
| Women’s feet may become larger during and after pregnancy | Weight gain during pregnancy may cause permanent lowering of the foot arch resulting in a longer foot. |
| Your standard running shoe size is typically a half size larger than your casual shoe | In general, running in shoes that are a tad too large is preferable to running in shoes that are too small. |
| Fit your larger foot | Your left foot and your right foot may differ by as much as a full size. A shoe that is too small is more likely to cause issues than one that is too big. |
| Faster running means you want a snugger fit | A tighter fit means you’ll stay better connected to the shoes when picking up the pace, so it might be worth giving up some wiggle room for a more secure fit. Many racing and performance shoes have a tighter overall fit than everyday training shoes. |
| Sock thickness can affect shoe fit, so try on shoes with the socks you plan to wear | You can change the thickness of your sock to fine-tune your fit. For example, use a thinner sock to create more space or a thicker sock to make the fit snugger. |
| Different lacing techniques can also affect fit | For more information, watch the video below. |
Picking The Right Heel
The heel-toe drop is the height difference between your heel and the ball of your foot when standing in the shoe, which is not to be confused with the thickness of your shoes cushioning. The heel-toe drop is all about adding an angle to your shoe in order to focus on the right impact zones.
Most road running shoes will have a drop between 5 and 12mm. Runners who tend to land on their heels should go for shoes with a higher drop as these should provide more cushioning for your heels, and therefore feel more comfortable on your run. They also shift the impact load to your knees and hips. Brand Salomon offers some great trail shoes for those who require a higher drop.
Those landing closer to their toes can look for a minimalist shoe, with a heel drop between 0 to 6mm. Lower drop shoes will shift the impact load to your ankles and Achilles, as opposed to your knees and hips. Trail runners could look at Altras range, while Saucony features several models with lower heel-toe drops for those who prefer to run on the road.
While this element may seem like a fairly complex technical element, inspecting your old shoes for wear could be a big help, says Alexandra Healey. Look for areas that are particularly worn. This could help you determine where your foot lands. Or take your old pair to the store so an expert can work with you to select something that will work with your running form.
Also Check: How Many Miles Does A Pair Of Running Shoes Last
Always Measure Your Feet
The size of your feet can change over time, and pregnancy can cause permanent changes to foot structure and length.It’s best to get your feet measured in store by a professional, especially if you require a wide or narrow size. If that’s not possible, use a reliable method for determining your shoe size and selecting styles that fit you comfortably.
How to Measure Your Feet
While professional measuring is recommended, here’s a do-it-yourself method:
Rule : Find A Good Shoe Salesperson
Find a good store with an attentive shoe salesperson who will take the time to make sure your shoes are properly fitted. A proper fit will be the correct size and the right type of running shoe based on your foot shape and type. A good salesperson will also take into consideration whether or not you will wear an orthotic insert, any relevant medical history, and your individual goals.
Also Check: Can You Dry Hey Dude Shoes
Weight Versus The Style Of Running Shoe
Based on a given weight, it is important to choose different models of shoes. In fact, the shock that your foot endures while running varies depending on your weight. Therefore, the shoe must be able to absorb the impact created.
If you weigh more than 175 pounds, it is recommended to choose a shoe with more cushioning in the heel and forefoot. Your BMI is a good indicator of the model to choose. In some cases, if a runner is too obese, it is sometimes recommended to select another option other than running to begin getting back into shape.
Dont hesitate to ask a podiatrist for advice on which type of model is best for you.
How To Find A Running Shoe That Fits
Conventional wisdom holds that your running shoes should be about a size bigger than your dress or casual size. Theres a grain of truth to thatincreased blood flow and swelling during and after exercise do make your feet expand, so your running shoes tend to be larger. However, because of sizing variations in all types of shoes, there are too many variables to know exactly how the numbers will align, says Kevin Vincent, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor at the University of Florida and director of the UF Running Medicine Clinic.
So, start with some hard data: If you havent had your feet measured since your parents dragged you for school shoes, go for a fitting. The length and width of your feet change because of factors like aging, injuries, and pregnancy.
The size you wore when youre 18 might not be the same size you wear when youre 42, just like youre probably not wearing the same size pants, Gray says. And thats okay. But we need to get those measurements to know how to change it. In fact, he recommends getting measured once a year.
Ideally, youd have this done at a local running-shoe store. People whove bought their shoes from a brick-and-mortar establishment seem less prone to poor fit than those who shop online, Gray says.
Ideally, a salesperson will bring you several different options. To assess size and fit as you try them on:
Don’t Miss: Usps Shoebox Rates
How We Picked The Best
We chose the best-cushioned running shoes by poring over the details of each model. Through wear testing, interviews with shoe designers and professional athletes, and our own fit id® data, we chose the shoes we think will work best for most runners in most situations.
You can shop with confidence at Fleet Feet: We offer free shipping on all orders over $99, and you have 60 days to return any gear if you donât like the way it looks, fits or feels. Plus, with our price-match guarantee, you can make sure you never pay too much for a new pair of running shoes.
Types Of Running Shoes
There are three general categories of running shoes. Before you assess the individual features of a shoe, think about what your running goals are and how your foot is designed. What kind of support do you need from a running shoe?
Stability shoes. These shoes are best if you have an average arch with only minor control problems. They offer your heel added stability and the ball of your foot added flexibility.
Motion control shoe. If you have flat feet, these shoes are your best option. When you have flat feet, you tend to roll your feet inward more significantly than is normal. Motion control shoes help you maintain correct pronation during a run. They usually have more rigid plastic or fiberglass lining and high-density foam.
Cushioning shoes. High arches need the added support offered with cushioning shoes. These shoes also help if you tend to roll your feet outward more than is normal, which is common among people with high arches. They are lightweight and not as rigid as other shoes.
Continued
Also Check: Can You Wash And Dry Hey Dude Shoes
What Type Of Support Is Available
The shape of the arch of your foot and the movement of your feet while you run will indicate whether you require extra support in the sole of your shoes. Most runners tend to pronate a little . Others will supinate . Here is a quick summary to help you figure out the type of shoe you may require:
| Gait | |
|
Supination Severe |
Motion control |
If you are unsure, start with a neutral shoe and see how comfortable you feel, and whether you would benefit from some added arch support to stop your foot from naturally rolling in or out. Brand Asics offers a good range of both neutral and stability models.
The SAIL store SIDAS machine can also help you find the right insole by mapping out the natural shape of your foot. All that remains is to slip the suggested insole into a neutral running shoe for the perfectly customised level of arch support.
How Much Support Do You Need
How does your foot hit the ground when you run? Pronation is the natural way your foot rolls inward when it strikes the ground and then propels forward. There are three different types of pronation, and you may want shoes with features that support your pronation level. Brands use different footwear technologies and features that reduce excess movement. The technologies are meant to guide the foot through a smoother transition.
You May Like: Stockx Shoe Box
How Tight Should Running Shoes Be Running Shoe Fitting Guide
- Pin
As runners, our most important piece of equipment is our running shoes, and boy, oh boy, are there a lot of options out there to choose from.
When selecting, the most crucial factor is the fit! I know, I know, we want the ones that look the coolest or match the colors of our favorite running outfits, but it doesnt always work out that way.
We need to choose running shoes where the fit is perfect.
But how should running shoes fit? How tight should running shoes be? And is it worth going to a running shoe fitting?
If youre new to running and trying to figure out which first shoes to buy or an experienced runner still on the hunt for the perfect running shoe, lets see if we can help you find yours.
In this article, we are going to discuss:
- The importance of the perfect fitand the consequences of bad fit
- Components of the perfect running shoe fitting
- How tight should running shoes
- 8 tips for buying running shoes
Ready?
Lets jump in!
Introduction: How To Choose The Right Running Shoe For You
Looking for a running shoe can be very overwhelming if you don’t know what you are looking for. There are so many different running shoes with so many different types of technology. Each of these shoes are built for different foot types. I have worked in shoes for a while now and I always get the same question “what is the best running shoe?” well, my answer is always the same. The best running shoe is the shoe that feels the most comfortable on your foot and fits your foot the best. So how do you go about finding that perfect shoe? I have outlined 6 simple steps for you to follow.
Don’t Miss: Are Brooks Shoes Good For Nurses
Motion Control Running Shoes
These shoes can be a great choice for runners who exhibit moderate to severe overpronation. Motion control shoes have extra built-in support and flatter outsoles. This combination can help combat excessive pronation to help stabilize the foot.
There are a few ways to figure out which running shoe may best fit you. This includes the arches of your feet, your gait type and the tread of your shoes.
For more guidance on how to choose the right type of running shoe, check out the DICKS Running Shoe Finder. Answer a few quick questions about your running habits and preferred fit, and the Running Shoe Finder will point you towards the perfect pair.
When To Replace Your Running Shoes
Running in worn-out shoes can lead to injuries, joint problems and pain. The surface you run on, your weight and running gait will influence how fast your shoes wear out. And even if youre not running frequently, the EVA padding in the insole and midsole will eventually start to break down and loose its squishiness. Pavement will wear shoes quickly softer trails are a little more kind.
Most manufacturers recommend that you replace your running shoes after about 750 to 900km. So, if you run 20km every week, thats a new pair at least once a year. If youre not in the habit of tracking your mileage, you can look for signs of wear that indicate when it might be time to retire your runners.
- The outer sole is worn through and the midsole is visible
- They sole is warped or has grooves that run lengthwise
- You cant feel the foam compress when you press the midsole with your fingers
- The lining on the heel counter is worn through or the heel counter has lost firmness
- The upper is worn through, has holes or is starting to tear
- Youve replaced your shoe laces more than twice
- They smell really bad even after you wash them
You May Like: Design My Own Shoes From Scratch
How To Check Your Shoe Fit
| A properly fitting running shoe should feel snug in the heel and midfoot, with wiggle room around the toes. |
| While standing, check for proper length and width by pressing your thumb down next to the ball of your foot and around the toes. A good fit should allow for half to a full thumb’s width of space. |
| Hold the back of the shoe and try to raise your heel. There should be little to no movement. |
| Check the eyelet rows on either side of the tongue. These rows should be close to parallel with each other. |
What’s Your Arch Type
Another factor to consider when picking running shoes is your arch type. The best running shoes for flat feet are different from those designed for high arches. The way a shoe fits is impacted by your arch, but no type is better than another. Support your arch by replacing the running shoe’s original insoles with orthotics or supportive shoe liners.
Wondering if your arches are high or flat? Try the wet test. Simply place a piece of paper on flat ground, wet your foot and step on it. The imprint shows whether you have a high or low arch.
- High arch: If your wet footprint has little to no edge contact and you just see the heel and ball of your foot imprint, you have a high arch. Your foot doesn’t absorb much shock so cushioned shoes are best. High-arched runners are at risk for bone injuries like shin splints and stress fractures, but the right running shoes can help prevent those. Some runners find it helpful to replace the stock insoles with a pair fit to their arch.
- Flat arch: If your wet footprint arch is filled in, you have a flat arch that collapses inward when you run. It acts as a shock absorber for your knees and feet but can put you at risk for certain injuries like runner’s knee. The best running shoes for flat feet are often stability shoes with wedges that build your arch.
Shop Running Shoes
Read Also: Can Hey Dudes Be Washed
