sports medicine newsletter
Runner Bill’s Running Shoe Shopping tips 
and benefits 
-by Bill Lis, Running Coach & Owner of Runner Bill's Sports
Related Article Runner Bill's
Shoe Selection Guide
Tip: Bring your old shoes with you and let the salesperson analyze the wear pattern.
Benefit: The wear pattern helps to identify the type of shoe you need.
Tip: Bring (or wear) the type of socks that you normally wear (or purchase new socks) for trying on new shoes.
Benefit: The thickness of socks people wear varies greatly and can affect the shoe size required for a comfortable fit.
Tip: If you wear orthotics, bring them with you. Discuss any other special needs or injuries that you have with the salesperson.
Benefit: Some shoes are specifically designed for orthotics and others are not. Testing the shoes with the orthotics will ensure proper fit. Also, knowledge of any related injuries or foot problems can help a salesperson determine a proper shoe type for you.
Tip: Dress comfortably and be prepared to test shoes in the store. Try both shoes on (not just one shoe) and walk/run in them.
Benefit: Trying both shoes on, can eliminate an incorrect fitting if your feet are not (most people's are not) exactly the same size. The only way to ensure that shoes fit properly is to actually walk/run in them.
Tip: Keep an open mind and try what the salesperson recommends. Do not purchase based on an advertisement, a magazine article, the shoes' appearance or what you see other people wearing.
Benefit: Everyone has different needs when it comes to shoes and your shoe selection should be based on your specific needs and comfort. This will help to prevent injuries and increase your walking/running enjoyment.
Tip: Remember that it is your ultimate responsibility to decide that the shoes fit well and are comfortable.
Benefit: If you take the time to ensure your fit and comfort you will enjoy exercising more. Only you know how the shoes feel on your feet.
Wall of shoes at Runner Bill's.
Running shoes
- Offers shoe shapes for different foot shapes
- Specifically address overpronation or underpronation
- Designed for forward motion (not lateral)
Typically, running shoes provide more cushion and support than other types of shoes. You can walk in running shoes but you should not run in walking shoes. NOTE: The above information applies to "training" shoes. Racing shoes are all curved and have little or no cushion or support. They are "minimal" shoes for competition only.
Walking Shoes
- Shaped for "normal" foot shapes
- Offers some support for overpronation
- Designed for forward motion (not lateral)
Cross Trainers Basketball, Tennis and Aerobic Shoes
- Typically shaped for "normal" foot shapes,
- Designed for and offer support for lateral movement
- Typically do not address overpronation or underpronation
Bio of Author: Article courtesy of Bill Lis, founder and owner of Runner Bill's Sports, a running specialty store in Midlothian, VA. He has outfitted runners and triathletes for more than 13 years. He is a graduate of VCU and has successfully coached males and females to achieve their goals at distances from 5K to full marathon. Bill supports and sponsors numerous running events each year.