This is basic information concerning what you should be looking for in running shoes. You will need a good pair of running shoes. Running shoes are made to cushion and support the foot in ways regular sneakers are not. It should be noted that good running shoes should not be used for other sports. They are not made to support the foot for sports, such as basketball, which require lateral motion. I have a personal preference for Brooks running shoes, although many companies make good models.
Read this paragraph carefully! Most of the major shoe companies make good quality running shoes. You have to realize that running shoes are made for this sport only, and cross trainers and other sneakers are not appropriate for running. The major characteristics of running shoes are cushioning, stability, motion control and flexibility. When you look at shoes, make sure they flex easily in the forefoot area, and not in the middle of the shoe. If they do not flex in the forefoot, and rather flex in the middle, you will end up with calf and Achilles tendon injuries. Make sure they have that company's cushioning system (Brooks Hydroflow, Nike Air, Asics Gel, etc.) The cheaper shoes made by each company do not contain the cushioning elements. With regard to stability, if you hold the front of the right shoe steady with your left hand and twist the shoe at the heel towards the arch area or inside of the shoe, it should not flex in that direction too easily or there is not enough support.
The best way to ensure that you get an appropriate shoe and an appropriate fit is to purchase your shoes at a reputable running store (not some place like Sports Authority which charges top dollar and the people have little knowledge about running).
We are recommending one particular store this year: Runners Pace located at 422 Rt. 202/206N, Bedminster, NJ 07921. Phone number 908-781-6842. It is about 25 minutes away down Route 287 in The Hills Shopping Center. Very knowledgeable, great service, and people who support high school track & field. The owner of the store, Ryan Grote, is the distance coach at Gill St. Bernards School.
