As an athlete or an every day person, buying running shoes is one of the best things you can do for your health. Proper running shoes are critical for a good running or walking experience, and to be able to safely exercise with the right type of support, knowing how to go about buying running shoes is more important than you might think. Your choice in running shoes can really make or break your workout experience, and if you want to get things off to a right start it is important that you choose your running shoes carefully. Chances are, your sales associate is not as knowledgeable as they sound about how to buy running shoes properly.

Shop at a “Running” Shoe Store

The worst thing you can for yourself is try to shop frugally for running shoes. The clearance rack is running shoe suicide, and more often than not you get a pair of running shoes that are malformed for your foot, too heavy or too light, or just plain do not fit right. This can be dangerous and may even potentially cause injury to your feet, legs, hips, or even your back—and all because you choose to save a few dollars by purchasing off the clearance rack.

This is not to say that buying running shoes on a dime is a bad idea. You just have to know what you are looking for and what you need in a running shoe. First of all, you are going to need proper support. Make sure that you try on your running shoes and walk around in them in the store. Many people make the mistake of thinking they know their size so they don’t have to try their shoes on at the store. You need to make sure that your shoes are not only the correct size, but also fit you right as well (this is not the same thing).

Determine Foot Type

You also need to know what type of foot you have. If you have ever had to deal with buying running shoes before, then chances are that you probably know what type of foot you have, and that is one of the most important things. Our feet are all built differently; some people have a lower arch and some people have a higher arch; still others have completely flat feet. All the different types of feet require different types of support in running shoes, so be aware of this when you are buying running shoes.