5 Tips for buying budget Running Shoes
I started running a good five years ago now. I can’t believe I’ve kept it up. I’m now at a point now where running has become so entrenched in my weekly routine it feels wrong to miss out. I’m still not massively fit, but I drag myself out there, whatever the weather and always feel better for it. I definitely feel mentally fitter! When you start running you quickly learn the value of good running shoes. I’m pretty tight and hate spending money on myself, so finding running shoes that don’t cost the world whilst serving there purpose has become a skill of mine. As you can imagine, over five years you work your way through a lot of women’s running trainers. Here’s my top tips for buying budget running shoes, so like me, you can hold onto your cash but still run like the wind!
Lightweight
I’ve found that the weight of my running shoe really matters. I always choose an outer material that looks like it has some give better allowing it to shape to my feet over time. For me, this means that heavier (and more expensive) materials like leather are out and light weight fabrics are in.
In Soles
Invest in a pair of insoles that can stay with you as your shoes change. I have found this to be an absolute godsend and makes buying new shoes so much easier. I have collapsed arches so the support my shoe offers when I run is crucial. Having the security that my insoles offer me support that is already familiar to my feet means the support from my shoe is secondary.
Stick to a brand
I have found that adidas running shoes work well for my feet. As one of the best know names in sport this means that whenever I find a model of shoe that works for me there are plenty of options to either repeat buy or try a similar model. I know what I’m getting each time I buy. Plus, adidas have an excellent range of footwear made using sustainable materials, which I love!
Consider your surface
If you’re running on road you may want to choose a shoe with more padding or cushioning to soften the blow on impact. If you’re morel likely to be running on dirt tracks or grassy surfaces you may want to look at investing in a trail shoe which will provide better support on uneven surfaces and will be likely to offer protection against wet surfaces etc.
Speak to an expert
Don’t feel disheartened if it takes a bit of trial and error before you find your perfect running shoe. If you’re totally new to the sport it’s worth visiting a running store to get some advice on your sizing, fit and gait (even if you don’t actually buy from the..shhh). The most important thing is to stay focused on what feels right for you. Ignore the marketing. Ignore the trends. Stay focused on what feels right.
