No two feet are quite alike. Some people have high arches while others have feet that roll inward or overpronate as they run. When you're hitting the pavement repetitively, running in the wrong shoes can put stress on your joints and leave you prone to injury over time. That's why it's important to have running shoes that provide you with the right sizing, comfort, and support.
The best running shoes are often categorized by the support they provide to a runner, and in-person fittings are the best means to access your foot type, running style, and needs. "You've got to look at a runner's gait to understand what shoe will work with their mechanics," explains Scott Strand of Trak Shak in Birmingham, Alabama. "A neutral runner's ankle stays aligned while running while someone who needs mild to moderate support has a little bit more flexibility and rotation of the ankle." When you provide the correct support, you provide stress relief to the ankle, leg, and knee with every stride. The highest support is available for those with sever overpronation, which is less common. Strand cautioned against overcorrection, as overcuring has adverse effects too.
So, what are the best running shoes for each type of runner? Strand gave us some insight into what he's recommending the most right now. Want more selection and personalized advice? Be sure to stop by Trak Shak in person or online.
