With spring finally in full bloom, most of us are probably ready and eager to get back outside in the sun. For some, that includes starting up old running routines and visiting their favorite trail or track again. Having the right pair of sneakers can make or break your experience. Injuries and pain are common, especially if you aren’t paying attention to your footwear. Luckily, we’ve listed out some tips and tricks for buying the perfect running shoes! Use this as a guide for your next shoe-shopping trip. 
- We know it can be difficult choosing a pair of sneakers with how many variations and styles there are these days. The best starting point is to avoid everything other than running shoes. Every day or fashion sneakers may look similar and be more stylish, but there’s a big difference in the makeup. Running shoes are made with special technology, like shock absorption and arch support, to help make your run more comfortable and injury-free.
- Do you wear custom orthotics? Need more gait support? Have a foot condition or recurring injury that influences your shoe purchases? Prefer a certain style or thickness of sock for your run? Keep this in mind when you shop!
- Consider the specifics of your daily run. Where do you like to exercise? Your paved neighborhood streets? The high school track? A grass-covered nature trail? The ground you run on can make a difference in what sneakers you should be getting. Shoe companies now consider this, too, and likely have styles for road, trail, and cross-training sneakers.
- Remember that running shoes don’t last long, especially if you’re a daily runner. On average, sneakers last 450 miles (that’s 4-5 months of everyday use) before the mid and outsoles wear out and it’s time to toss them.
- Try on a few different pairs, sizes, styles, and brands before deciding on your final choice. If your last pair of sneakers from one specific brand gave you shin splints, maybe choose from a different company this time.
At West Hartford Podiatry Associates, Marc Lederman, DPM, and Kurt Rode, DPM, treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions such as ankle sprains, fractures, running injuries, sports injuries, pediatric foot care, bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, and neuromas. We provide the best podiatric solutions to patients of all ages.