What’s on your feet?

Choosing the right athletic shoes can mean the difference between enjoying your run or workout and finding yourself back on the couch nursing shin splints or foot pain. Since your goal is to minimize your time on the couch, here are a few things to consider when choosing your next pair of running or walking shoes.

• Athletic shoes are not ‘one type fits all’ - in other words, don’t make your shoes multitask! If you walk some days and run other days, buy two pair of shoes - one designed for walking, one designed for running.
• Check your ‘footprint’ by stepping with your wet bare foot, onto a sheet of brown paper. Or check your old shoes to see how and where they are worn most. Then consult an expert.
• Feet change. Measure often.
• Shop at the end of the day. Your feet swell as the day progresses and as you walk around.
• No breaking in. Running or walking shoes should feel comfortable in the store.
• Use the rule of thumb. There should be 3/8 to ½ inch of space between your big toe and end of the shoe when you are standing.
• Understand how the bells and whistles matter to your feet. Spongy things, inflatable tongues, clear inserts, Freon, air soles, etc are only good if they are good for your particular feet. Consult an expert. 
• Don’t overspend or underspend. $15 won’t give you the support you need. On the other side, you’ll overspend for shoes associated with a celebrity.  Don’t get sucked in by marketing.
• Know when to replace them. When they start to lose their support, or you hit 350 miles, it’s time to go shopping.

Be sure to take good care of your feet. You’ll need them to carry you around for the rest of your life.