Style for your feet

The most important aspect of your running attire is, of course, your shoes. While they may not make you faster, a comfortable pair that fits your running style will ensure an enjoyable run. We checked in with Fleet Feet Boulder to find the best shoes on the market today to help make the decision process an easy one.

Fleet Feet is an excellent source for running shoes because the company’s foot specialists conduct a full gait analysis to determine what shoes support your feet the best way possible. “It involves measuring your feet and determining how much your arch collapses between sitting and standing,” said Ryan Lawrence, footwear specialist at the Boulder store. “We also watch you walk and jog barefoot to see how your foot acts naturally. Once we determine what we think will be a good shoe, we film people on a treadmill, and then analyze the footage frame by frame.”

Generally, people with higher arches need less stability (or motion control) in a shoe. However, those with flatter feet generally need a more supportive shoe. “For those who supinate, they should definitely go with a neutral shoe,” Lawrence said. “Over-pronation can be problematic, because it can affect knee and hip alignment, and continue to ripple up through your back. For those with excessive pronation, a stability shoe with a medial post can help align your feet and prevent injury.”

The current trend in running shoes – especially among men – is minimalism. “The idea of the minimalist movement is that people are able to run more naturally, and, as a result, more injury-free,” Lawrence said. “I encourage everyone to give it a try, but be very gradual with your use of them. Start with just a few minutes every other day for a week and see how that feels, and then keep gradually increasing from there.”

In neutral shoes, Lawrence suggests trying the Asics GEL-Nimbus or the Nike Pegasus. In stability shoes, he prefers the Brooks Adrenaline and the Nike Structure Triax. And, for motion control shoes, the Brooks Beast and the New Balance 940 are the way to go.  However, he cautions that these are merely suggestions and they may not be right for you. Be prepared to try on several different pairs for comparison. “I’m a sucker for Nike because I think they look the coolest,” he said. “Their new Lunarlon cushioning is also pretty awesome. New Balance is also making some great strides right now by revamping many of their shoes and giving their whole company a fresher, more modern look.”

You’ll know that it’s time for a new pair of running shoes when your current pair starts to feel flat or you start to feel achy after a run. According to Lawrence, it’s best to buy new shoes as soon as you think your current pair is worn out. “Also, if you’re not sure they’re toast, but you know they’re getting close, it’s still a good idea to buy a new pair of shoes. Then, you can rotate between the two pairs until it’s obvious that the old ones are ready to be retired.”

Overall, the most important factors to consider are comfort and the right amount of support. You want something that feels natural on your feet and something that will inspire you to run every time you put them on.