When it comes to buying athletic shoes, one size does not fit all! Not only is this true when it comes to how your shoes fit, but it also depends on the activity you plan to do while you’re wearing the shoes. For example, weight lifting shoes won’t be the best choice for a hike, just like running shoes aren’t the best option for field sports like soccer, rugby, or football.
Planning to attend one of Xtend Fitness’s Bootcamp classes? For something like this, a cross-trainer will work well. During a strength training class, on the other hand, a shoe with a flatter sole for more stability is a good choice.
Choosing Athletic Shoes
This is why it’s common practice to have different styles of athletic shoes for the different sports you take part in. And this is a great place to start when it comes to choosing athletic shoes! For starters, you want to look for a shoe that was specifically built for the activity you’ll wear it for.
Tips for Buying Athletic Shoes
Once you know what kind of shoe you’re looking for, here are some tips for picking the best one for you.
Consider shopping at a specialty store
Specialty shoe stores are your best bet for finding athletic shoes that will be comfortable and built to last. Not to mention, the staff at these stores are experienced with all kinds of shoes so you can benefit from their knowledge.
Try shopping for shoes at the end of the day or after a workout
Your feet can grow up to half a size throughout the day due to swelling caused by increased blood circulation and body temperature. Shopping earlier in the day can increase the chance of purchasing shoes that are too tight and uncomfortable. Additionally, if you have one foot that’s bigger than the other, make sure you test the shoes on both feet.
Relace the athletic shoes
We know it can be a pain, but relacing the shoes before you tie them will help ensure the best fit. You can tighten the laces in the appropriate spot for your feet, ultimately resulting in the best fit.
Test them out
Sitting down to try your athletic shoes on is one thing. But walking or running in them will tell you a lot more about them! Make sure you walk or jog around the store before you set your heart on a particular pair. This will help you identify any potential red flags with the shoe.
Replace them regularly
If you only wear your athletic shoes once a week, they can certainly last you for years. But what about athletes who work out several times a week? In that case, your shoes will need more regular replacement. A good rule of thumb is replacing your shoes every 300-500 miles logged in them, or every 300 hours of exercise.
Finding the appropriate athletic shoes for you can be a game-changer when it comes to your comfort. But at the same time, it can also mean great things for your performance! Be sure to choose a shoe that fits well, is built for your sport, and has the features you’re looking for. If you’re experiencing foot issues or discomfort, be sure to address them right away so you don’t risk an injury that forces you to sit out.
