Have you ever walked into a running store, stared at all the colourful designs and thought: How do I know which pair to buy? You’re not alone! The truth of the matter is that looking at rows of shoes won’t tell you which ones are right for you. You need to know what to look for.
And how do you do that? Learn about the terrain they’re made for because your gym shoes might not work for hiking and vice versa. There is a wide selection of men's running footwear so pay attention to the terrain they are made for, the cushioning, support and how the shoe fits your foot.
Pick the Right Shoes for Your Runs
Running Shoes for the Gym
When browsing through the selection of men's running footwear, the first thing to consider is their purpose: are they made for the gym, road running, hiking or sports?
For instance, if you’re hitting the gym, you want to look for shoes that give the right support, comfort and stability. They should have a good grip for running on treadmills and gym floors. The shoe should have an overall lightweight design to make running easy.
While cushioning is important for absorbing shock from impact, the outsole also plays a role in how well your shoes perform. For gym shoes, designs with athletic rubber or pure rubber outsole are the best. Rubber outsoles provide excellent grip, stability and better traction on smooth indoor surfaces like the gym floor.
More often than not, people make the same mistake of choosing runners with aggressive treads like those designed for outdoor use thinking they would provide a better grip on the gym floor. But there is no real need for this. As a matter of fact, such treads can actually reduce the stability and traction of a smooth floor.
When it comes to the fit, the shoe should be snug but not too tight. Your shoe should have a little wiggle room around your toes for comfort.
Running Shoes for Hiking
If you prefer hiking or running on trails, regular running shoes simply won't cut it! You need shoes specifically made for rocky and bumpy terrains. Such shoes have grippy outsoles with deep threads that provide a solid grip on dirt, rocks and other uneven surfaces. They are simply built tougher than road running shoes.
And if you don’t have a problem with hiking in any weather, look for mens running shoes with a waterproof lining to keep your feet dry. When it comes to cushioning, pick shoes with high cushioning for maximum protection and shock absorption. Plush compression-moulded EVA foam is a great example of a good cushioning that enhances comfort and support.
Road Running Shoes
For running on pavement, sidewalks or tracks, pick shoes designed for smooth terrains. The shoe should feel lightweight, with responsive midsoles and enough cushioning to absorb impact, keeping your feet comfortable throughout your run. Remember, your running shoes should not get in the way of your running, but rather help push you forward with each step. If you feel like your shoes are holding you back, those are not the right ones for you.
Look for shoes that have breathable mesh uppers to keep your feet cool during your runs since proper airflow reduces sweat buildup and helps your feet feel much more comfortable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Running Shoes
Foot Type and Arch Support
Before you hop on the bandwagon and get carried away by the excitement of the endless running shoe options, know your foot type! Some people have flat feet, others have high or neutral arches. Why does this matter? Because it can help you choose the right arch support to prevent pain and injuries. Not sure if you have flat feet? There is a simple test that you can do at home to help you determine your foot type. Place a piece of blank paper on the floor and step on it with wet feet. The footprints will tell you if you have low, high or neutral arches.
Also, if you have wide feet or simply prefer a little extra room for your toes, check out runners with an original foot shape fit. The original foot shape has a roomier toebox that mimics the natural shape of the foot. It reduces discomfort, as well as the risk of blisters and bunions and encourages proper foot alignment.
Cushioning and Comfort
While cushioning is important to take the pressure off your feet, you don’t want to go overboard with it because too much cushioning can make your shoes feel bulky and a lot heavier. Instead, focus on low cushioning or plush cushioning designed with compression-moulded EVA foam that feels soft, lightweight, yet, supportive. Remember, it’s all about balance!
Breathability and Material
Your runners should keep your feet cool, dry and comfortable. Look for shoes made from breathable materials like those with mesh uppers to allow better airflow. For running outside in wet conditions, soles with a waterproof lining are a solid pick. In general, the shoes should feel lightweight and airy.
Durability and Traction
If you’re mostly running on roads or treadmills, you want shoes with smooth rubber outsoles - they grip smooth surfaces better. For trails or hiking, pick runners with aggressive threads to prevent slipping.