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How to determine your shoe size
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What to Look For in a Running Shoe (8 simple criteria)
by Michael L. Hauser, Foot Specialist
I have had numerous requests from my jogger patients for some tips on picking a good running shoe. The following are some of the more important things to
consider when picking a running shoe for you.
1) Proper Fit:
- Measurements for shoes should be taken while standing so that you and in the full weight-bearing position.
- The length of the foot should be measured from the heel to the ball of the foot. Overall length (heel to toe) should be a secondary measurement only.
- Be sure that there is a 1/2" space between the longest toe and the end of the toe box of the toe.
- Check shoe width by grasping the shoe width above the the ball of the foot and squeezing the shoe material between your fingers. If wriknles appear, the shoe is too wide.
- The heel should fit snugly, but not too tightly.
2) Sole Construction
- Look for a shoe that has a touch outer sole with a soft layer above it. This will provide both a long life for the shoe and at the same time give good shock absorbing
qualities. Be sure the sole is adequately thick from heel to toe.
3) Sole flexibility
- You should be able to bend the show at the ball of the foot to a 90 degree angle by finger pressure against the front of the shoe.
4) Shank support
- The sole of the shoe should be flush with the ground in the arch area.
5) Heel lift
- Subtract the thickness of the sole at the ball of the foor from the heel thickness. This should equal 1/2" or more.
6) Upper softness
- Pick a material that will stay soft for the life of the shoe. Nylon is not a good choice.
7) Heel counter
- The heel should be rigid and cover the entire heel. It should also be perpendicular to the supporting surface when viewed from the back of the shoe.
8) Shoe weight
- Pick a shoe that is compatible for its purpose -- light for racing and heavier for training.
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