The selection of commercially available running shoes is a selection of crazy proportions, so it is no wonder that people tend to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of needing to look for new running shoes! Many considerations will affect your final choice of shoes, such as whether you are a long- or medium-distance runner, whether you take it slow or sprint, what your physical build is and where you like to run. Let’s look at some of the things you might want to consider when hunting for the right pair of running shoes.

Where are you running?

The composition of the terrain that you run on is likely to have a big effect on the type of shoes you choose to run in. If you are more of a sidewalk runner, you will need road running shoes to contend with the flat, hard surfaces, and which can safely absorb the impact of the road against your joints.

If you are more of a trail runner, you will benefit from off-road shoes that offer enough grip and traction to deal with even the toughest of terrain, from sand and mud to roots and rocks. Using these shoes on the pavement will, however, backfire, as the rough texture of the paved surface will chew away at the lugs on the soles, compromising your grip and stability over time.

If you are a hybrid runner, meaning that you enjoy doing both types of running, you will do well with a hybrid running shoe. This type of shoe can withstand the damage of road surfaces, and still give you a comparable off-road performance.

How important is the brand?

The brand does play a role, but not in the fashion sense. Fashion should always take a backseat to function when it comes to running shoes, and you should never make your decision based on the colors you like or what the shoe looks like. It should always be about what the shoe can offer you structurally and supportively. Everything Else Is a nice-to-have.

Not all brands manufacture their shoes in the same way, so don’t expect to get the same features across two different brands. The best advice is to visit the store environment. Any of the Asics stores in Australia will be able to provide you with the information you might need to make the right choice. Do this with other brands too, to figure out what the best option is for you.

What are the different types of running shoes?

If you are an overpronator, you will likely benefit from motion control running shoes. These shoes inhibit any excessive roll of the foot, helping you to avoid injury. It also provides additional shock absorbing functionality, to offset the impact created by running. Motion-control shoes are often very stiff, and a little bit heavier, thanks to the additional built-in components, but they are a great option for those whose anatomy requires a bit more support. The Asics stores in AU specialize in diagnosing this, so pay them a visit if you are uncertain.

Cushioned running shoes are a good option if you underpronate, as it gives some extra stability to the foot and prevents it from rolling around too much. The cushioning also breaks the shock of impact, protecting your spine and joints from excessive jolting.

Stability running shoes are a good midway option for those who don’t need specific support, while still bringing stability to the run without restricting movement.

Lightweight running shoes are just that – although they have low corrective properties, they are light to wear, often breathable and airy, but should only be worn by those who do not need additional support.

Trail running shoes are a completely different setup, featuring specialized elements like grip lugs, reinforced midfoot cushioning, moisture-wicking components and stronger uppers that come together for support and structure when running on highly unstable terrain.

If you are a trail runner, the element that will be of greatest importance to you will likely be the level of grip. Most trail running shoes are neutral, but you can adapt them to match your pronation by adding specialized insoles to address over- or underpronation. The point of trail shoes is to give you traction across unstable surfaces, and thanks to the deeper tread on their soles, you can also expect a much higher level of responsive grip on the terrain.

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