If you run often, you should invest in a decent pair of running shoes. Choosing the proper shoes is more about the particular fit than it is about the brand.
While there is no one-size-fits-all running shoe, there are some that are better than others. This guide will help you select the right sneakers for women, depending on your needs. You might need stability for overpronation, comfort for your first 5k or half-marathon, or traction for trail running.
Keep on reading for our full breakdown of how to select the right running shoes for your daily runs.
Sneakers for Women 101: Understanding the Different Foot Types
Let’s start with the basics. There are three main types of feet. Flat feet, high arches, or neutral feet.
A lack of a pronounced arch characterizes flat feet. When you stand, the arch is the space between the ball of your foot and the heel.
Because flat feet allow for more flexibility, you’ll need shoes that let you regulate your movements. Strong heel support and thick foam for the center of your foot are essential.
On the other hand, high arches are on the other end of the scale.
Your feet will be stiffer if there is ample space between your feet and the floor. You’ll need a flexible sneaker with arch support that cushions your middle foot on each stride’s impact.
If your feet are neutral, your arch is likely to be anywhere between high and flat. Most regular shoes will fit your feet, and you won’t need any extra arch support.
Get the Perfect Fit for Your Running Shoes
When choosing a running shoe, the fit should be the most critical consideration. A running shoe that doesn’t fit properly can not only make your run uncomfortable but may also put you at risk of injury.
First, at the end of the day, try on your shoes. Because your feet expand while you run and throughout the day, putting on your shoes later in the day or evening may give a more accurate fit.
Also, you’ll want to keep a thumb’s width between your toes.
Between the end of your foot and the end of the shoe, there should be around one thumb width to allow foot spread. On downhill runs or if your feet swell, this will prevent your toes from striking the end.
Avoid any pinching or sliding. The shoe should be able to wrap around your foot comfortably. Your foot should be centered on the platform of the shoe, and it should not pinch or feel sloppy.
Select the correct width. Some shoes are designed to fit a narrow or broad foot better, and some are even available in both wide and narrow sizes. Men’s shoe widths are D, while women’s shoe widths are B.
Pick the Right Type of Women’s Sneakers
Running shoes are made to serve a particular function. You should select your running shoes depending on the running you want to perform.
These are your traditional everyday running shoes. They are the most versatile choice. And can keep up with the majority of people’s jogging. The Adidas Ultra Boost is an excellent option if you’re looking for everyday running shoes.
Also, those will last you for a long time.
Then, we have lightweight running shoes. Those are perfect for faster training or races. But, they aren’t as sturdy as daily shoes. In comparison to ordinary shoes, they are often less padded.
Finally, we have the trail running shoe. Those are ideal for running on rough and dirt terrain. The bottom lugs offer greater traction on mud and pebbles. And, the uppers are usually more durable.
Keep Your Budget in Mind
When it comes to running shoes, a more significant price tag generally means more technology and comfort features, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money to have a good run.
In a similar vein, choosing a low-cost pair may indicate that the shoes were not intended for running and may not be able to withstand the demands that running puts on them.
The price of a good pair of running shoes usually ranges from $100 to $250. For running shoes well suited to most runners’ standard requirements, you can anticipate spending between $110 and $150.
Learn the Lingo
The quantity of material between your foot and the ground is referred to as stack height. Stack heights vary from barefoot to maximally cushioned. The majority of running shoes are in the center of the stack height range.
Running with shoes with little cushioning or a low stack height allows people to feel the ground rather than the cushioning. They also value a “more natural” jogging experience, as they define it. Running in shoes with a lot of cushioning or a high stack height provides a luxurious running experience with impact protection.
The Heal-Toe Offset
The difference between the volume of material underneath the heel and the amount of material under the forefoot of a running shoe is referred to as “heel-toe offset” or “heel-toe drop.”
To accommodate a stride in which the heel is the first foot to contact the ground, most running shoes contain extra material beneath the heel.
This aids in the absorption of landing impact. An equal thickness of material beneath the whole foot is seen in running shoes with a reduced heel-toe offset. This encourages a stride in which the front or center of the foot strikes the ground first.
The Pronation Control
Running shoes are divided into two categories: neutral and stability. Neutral running shoes account for approximately 80% of all running shoes. These models provide the most outstanding options and are suitable for the majority of runners.
Stability overpronation correction technology is included in running shoes. Overpronation occurs when the ankle rolls inwards excessively with each step, increasing the risk of running injuries.
Ready to Pick Your Favorite Pair?
If you’re new to the world of running, it can be pretty overwhelming to pick your first pair of running shoes. There are so many of them in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
We hope that our guide has shed some light on how to select the perfect sneakers for women. And, if you’re still trying to shake up your wardrobe, you’ll want to check out our additional style guides. All of those are available in our fashion and lifestyle sections.
Iskra Banović is our seasoned Editor-in-Chief at BlueFashion. She has been steering the website's content and editorial direction since 2013. With a rich background in fashion design, Iskra's expertise spans across fashion, interior design, beauty, lifestyle, travel, and culture.
