Urbanathlon

All the major running shoes were designed by men and indeed the majority of these were athletes, who could not find a good running shoe or shoe for their sport and so started designing their own. The designers of running shoes have had to take into account the shape of both men’s and women's feet and many give varying widths in their different ranges.

Is your Running shoe right for you?

A life time of dedication, in the pursuit of the ultimate athletic performance enhancing running shoe, has been one of the major contributors, to the "breaking" of world records today. Your running shoes have never been so important. The correct choice of running shoes is very important. One of the advantages of running compared to other sports is that you don't need to buy additional specialist equipment. All you need is a couple of pairs of good quality running shoes that best suit you, and if you are a woman, you may need a sports bra. Whenever possible, go to a specialist running shop. You'll get a better selection, and good advice. Some have a running machine and will let you try the running shoes, before you buy.
 
What type of Running Shoe to buy?

There is no such thing as a "best model". Every runner is different in the way they run, and different running shoes are suitable for different running styles. And it is quite possible that a £40 pair of shoes would suit you better than a £100 pair. We recommend that all beginners should buy their running shoes from a specialist running shoe shop, many of which are to be found in most towns. Some of these have internet sites, which is ideal for those living in out lying areas. Natterjack, Start Fitness and Up and Running have specialist running shoes, and running accessories online.

Every Runner is different

Pronate Foot, Normal, Foot Flat Foot,
When you run, your foot should land on the outer edge and role inwards. Many people "over pronate", that is, they roll their foot inwards too much. Some running shoes are designed to prevent this, these are shoes that promote "stability" or "motion control". There are different degrees of over pronation, and different shoes act in various ways to prevent this. Other runners land their feet flat but there are running shoes designed and available for this also. There is no substitute for trying several different models from different manufacturers to see which running shoe works best for you.

Follow this advice to make sure you buy suitable shoes

◊	Go to a specialist running shop. Don't go to a general sports chain. You need an experienced shop assistant to watch you run in different models to see how they affect your running style.
◊	Go during the week when the full time staff are there - they will usually be more experienced than part-time weekend staff.
◊	Try the shoes. Don't just put them on, but run up and down the street in them. If the shop will not let you run up and down the street, leave the shop.

How long will your Running shoes last?

You should always try to buy two pairs of running shoes and alternate between them. Only run in the shoes, do not play any other sport, or wear them for walking around. Running Shoes can last anything between 300 and 800 miles. Assuming you run 25 miles each week, they should last you about 4 or 5 months. Most runners do not change them often enough!