Buying Road Running Shoes

If you are a runner and you suffer through winter weather, you probably are biting at the bit to start running regularly outdoors.

In comparison to running on an indoor track or a treadmill, running outside can be meditative and relaxing. But with outdoor running comes certain liabilities. You increase the possibility of common injuries including Achilles tendon strain, plantar fasciitis, knee pain from patellofemoral or iliotibial band (ITB) dysfunction, shin splints and low back pain. Injuries can be a result of uneven, rigid surfaces. They can also result from inadequate conditioning or improper footwear.

The Right Running Shoe Prevents Injuries

Many injuries can be prevented through appropriate footwear. Since the foot strikes the ground approximately 3,000 times per mile, proper footwear can make or break a runner's career. There are three basic categories of foot type, each of which have different shoe needs: neutral feet, pronators (feet with a flattened arch), or supinators (feet with a higher arch). There are running shoes specifically designed to accommodate different foot types. Once fitted with the proper shoe, it is vital to replace the shoe every few hundred miles or every three to six months to ensure proper support is maintained.

You also want to find a surface that is forgiving. If you're into running for the long haul then you want to avoid constant running on concrete and asphalt. Although asphalt can be more forgiving. If you are a city runner and are forced to run on asphalt purchase shoes that offer the maximum cushioning.

If you are running on trails look for shoes that are specifically designed for trails. There are numerous models for all degrees of trail running. In general, you will want a shoe that offers extra stability and traction.

I personally run on asphalt roads in order to get to a trail. There for I want the best of both worlds.

Running outdoors is extremely satisfying, but it requires the right shoe for the right terrain.