Selecting the Right Shoes for Wide-footed Runners
You consider running because it can help improve your cardiovascular health. Running also triggers happy hormones, which can make a difference in your emotional and mental wellbeing. Nothing should stop you from running – even having wide feet.
Being born with wide feet is not a bad thing – you just need to make sure that you buy the best running shoes for wide feet. With the right shoes, you mitigate missteps that can lead to potential injuries. Experts recommend two types of shoes for wide feet – stability and motion control.
- Stability shoes: these running shoes are best for runners that have mild to moderate overpronation. Stability shoes often incorporate firm “post” to fortify the arch side of every midsole. You must know that the midsole is an area that is often highly impacted by overpronation.
- Motion-control shoes: these running shoes are ideal for runners that have moderate to severe overpronation. Motion-control shoes often incorporate stiffer heels and stronger arch support. The ultimate goal of these shoes is to restrict improper movement during running.
- Now that you know the kind of running shoes for you, it is time to head to the nearest shoe store. Here are some tips that you should consider when selecting the right running shoes:
- Comfort is your top priority: typically, the most comfortable shoe is probably the best one for you. Comfort should be a priority because it will work with your body in achieving your goals.
- Invest in quality: there are many shoes that offer lesser price. You can consider this but you have to think long-term. Your decision should be based on value or quality, not the price if you want to use it for a long time.
- Know when to replace it: you need to know when is the right time to toss your old pair. Running shoes should cover between 400-600 miles before they wear out. However, if you experience joint pains before its ideal lifespan, it is a sign that they have already worn out.
- Buy at the end of the day: many people just buy running shoes at any time of the day. You need to avoid this mistake because the time can have an impact on your shoe. This is because your feet are the fullest in size at the end of the day. If the running shoes are tight, it can lead to pain and discomfort. If it is too loose, you will have a hard time picking up the pace. Ideally, it should fit snuggly.
- Put your socks on: when you are trying the shoes, make sure that you put your socks on. This is to ensure that you are comfortable and you got the right size or fit.
- Consider the “wiggle room”: always pick shoes that will give your toes “wiggle room”. To ensure this, you should use a thumb’s width at the end of the longest toe to the tip of the shoe.
- Measure feet regularly: shoe size can change from pregnancy, physical activity, and weight gain. It is prudent to always measure it especially if you plan to buy a new pair.