For the love of Running shoes: How to pick the right running shoes for you.

1. Proper fit

The most important factor when choosing a running shoe is making sure your feet feel happy in them. As much as it pains me to admit- it’s really worth forking out the extra $50-$100 for the non-blister giving pair that you find on sale. Compromise here really hits hard after 12km

A common tip is to buy running shoes half a size bigger than your usual size, to give your toes extra space for movement while you run.

2. Cushioning:

The amount of cushioning in a running shoe can vary a huge amount these days.generally we love more cushion for longer runs. If you prefer shorter distances, you may prefer a stiffer feeling foam under your foot, that will prop your foot further if you’re running a little faster than the marathon trainers. If you don’t work on your feet for long hours, and you’re new to running, some extra cushioning might help your feet ease into running.

3. Breathability:

As much as amazing socks can also help out a lot with this- these days no one needs to suffer with sweaty betty soggy toes after a run- unless it was pouring rain.

We love a toe area fabric that has ventilation- just wear bright socks to try on and see if you can see them through the shoes and voila, you have enough ventilation.

4. Flexibility:

Ok this is when I get all creepy at the shoe shops.

Our feet need to naturally move when we run, so our shoes need to allow for that.

When you bend the shoe side on you want to see the area where your big toe would bend up as you step has plenty of bend also.

Grab your shoe at the toe and heel section and twist it like a you’re opening a Fantale we want to see some twist in the shoe as you do this.

5. Weight:

When you’re new to running, don’t get too caught up in the weight of your shoe just yet but generally speaking the lighter the better.

Watch out for any inserts you want to add to support your feet, that they aren’t too heavy (like made of gel or latex rubbery stuff).

6. Heel counter:

Ensure that the rear area of the shoe that wraps around your heel is strong and doesn’t collapse when you push inwards on it. This ensures your heel bone remains in the perfect position as you run, keeping the rest of your foot working in easy natural rhythm.

7. MOST importantly

And of course, most importantly if they don’t make you smile, and want to take them out for a spin then… keep looking :)