13 Things to Know Before You Buy Running Shoes
Having the right pair of running shoes can make a big impact on your daily runs and workouts. With a pair of well-fitting shoes, you can comfortably cover more distance without worrying about your feet. But with so many options, finding the right pair can feel overwhelming.
At Fleet Feet, weâre committed to finding you the best pair of shoes for your feet. Because everyoneâs feet are unique, finding the right pair will look different for everyone. Hereâs everything you need to know about buying running shoes at Fleet Feet.
1. Your friendâs favorite shoes probably arenât the ones for you
Before you buy that pair that your friend swears by, you should know it may not be a good fit for you. The best shoe for you depends on the shape of your feet and the way you move. It also matters how you plan to use the shoes. Are you walking on pavement, running on trails, racing a relay? Youâll want to choose shoes designed for that activity and surface.
The best way to find running shoes that fit you well is to get fit by an expert at your local running store. At Fleet Feet, our outfitters will help you find shoes with the proper shape and support for your needs. Then itâs up to you to decide what feels the most comfortable.
2. There is no single âbest running shoe"
If there was one, thatâs all we would sell. There may be a few pairs of shoes that will feel good and fit you well. Weâre here to help you find the ones you like the most.
3. There is no charge for the Fleet Feet fit process
We donât charge for the data and expertise our outfitters provide. Yes, the 3D scanner used in our fit id process is pretty cool, but it wonât add to the cost of buying shoes. Fleet Feet also offers a Happy Fit Price Match guarantee, so youâll never pay more than the market price.
We do hope youâll find the shoes you love and purchase them with us, but thereâs no obligation. Your scan will be emailed to you and saved in our system to make shopping easy in the future.
4. You donât have to be a runner to shop at a running store, and running shoes arenât just made for running
This is one of the biggest barriers for people on the hunt for comfortable shoes, whether itâs for work, travel, hiking or general everyday wear. If youâre looking for comfortable shoes to help alleviate pain, ârunning shoesâ might just be exactly what you need. But for many, going into a running store to find them can be intimidating.
Whether youâre an elite runner, an avid walker or you just want some comfortable shoes, weâre here to help you find the right fit. No qualifications needed. And, yes, running shoes are excellent for walking.
5. Your feet arenât as weird as you think they are
If you have calluses, misshapen nails, or something else you're self-conscious about, youâre in good company. We have seen it all. And we clean the scanner in between each customer if youâre worried about that!
At Fleet Feet weâre going to scan (and look at) your feet because itâs crucial for the fit process. But weâre not judging.
6. Your shoes or inserts arenât supposed to âfixâ your feet
Maybe you overpronate, you have flat feet, or a bunion that hurts sometimes. The right shoes or inserts should give you the support you need to feel more comfortable, but they arenât supposed to correct or change the way you walk or run.
7. Itâs normal to wear a larger size in a running shoe than you would in a dress shoe
When you run, your feet swell. You donât want your toes to be squished together or touching the end of your shoe. Youâll need a bit of space between your big toe and the end of the shoe, but your heel shouldnât move around. If your outfitter suggests a larger size, donât panic.
Also, many of us have been wearing the wrong size shoe for most of our lives--and this extends beyond running shoes, too. So, you may truly need a bigger (and maybe even wider) shoe than you think. For running, for walking … for everything.
8. All shoes from one brand arenât the same
Running shoe brands make a wide variety of different models that fit in different ways. Some running shoes are designed for cushioned, everyday wear, while others are more responsive and lightweight. Just because you tried a shoe from one brand that didnât work for you in the past doesnât mean another model from that same brand wonât feel much better.
9. There is NO break in period for shoes
Your shoes should be comfortable right out of the box, and you should not have hot spots or blisters from wearing them for the first few weeks.
Take the shoes for a little jog at the store when you try them on (yes, this is encouraged). If they donât feel good on the first run, theyâre probably not the right choice.
10. Insoles may enhance your fit
Insoles, such as Superfeet ME3D personalized inserts, can help your running shoes fit better. Insoles are designed to stabilize your foot within the shoe and create a more comfortable fit.
Running shoes donât have any arch support, so having an insert will help fill that gap between the top of your arch and the bottom of your shoe.
Insoles come in different shapes and sizes, so ask an outfitter which kind will work for you.
11. Fleet Feet Outfitters just want to help
Fleet Feet Outfitters go through an extensive training process to learn about gear, biomechanics, shoe technology, bra fitting and more. Our ultimate goal is to introduce you to all the products that will help you reach your goals. Although we might introduce you to a lot of options, it's not just to make a sale - it's because we care.
12. Nobodyâs opinion matters as much as yours
Just to say it one more time: Weâre here to give advice, but your comfort is the most important factor in choosing a shoe. The best running shoe for you is the one that feels the best on your feet, regardless of the newest advances in shoe technology.
13. We think youâll love your shoes. But if you donât, youâre not stuck
Fleet Feet has what we call our âHappy Fit Guarantee.â If you donât love how it looks, feels or performs, you can bring your shoes (or any gear) back within 60 days for a refund or exchange. No big deal. Yes, EVEN if you wear your shoes outside.
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