Shoe shopping 101
Posted on Mar 11th 2008 9:30AM by Kristen SeymourFiled Under: Fashion and Beauty, Reviews & Products
Some of you probably think you know it all when it comes to shoe shopping. Well, Forbes recently gave out some tips on the best ways to shop for sneakers, and I think you'll be surprised at some of their suggestions.- Find a good retailer. If you're a runner, check out a running store -- they will likely be better able to diagnose your shoe needs than a college kid working at Champs.
- Know your foot (or find someone who does). If you're flatfooted, you'll be likely to overpronate, whereas if you have high arches, you'll probably underpronate. Again, this is where a knowledgeable salesperson will be most helpful.
- Buy shoes made for what you'll do in them, not because they're pink (or because LeBron wears them).
- Don't assume more money = more better. Studies have shown that cheap to moderately priced shoes can actually cause less plantar pressure.
- Measure your foot. As you age or gain weight, your foot can get larger. See if your retailer has an iStep, which can figure out exactly what size you need.
- Wear athletic socks. Seems like a no-brainer, but I know I've gotten to shoe stores before and had to borrow a pair of socks.
- Go at the end of the day. Your feet will be more swollen and you'll be better able to judge how the show will fit.
- Replace your shoes in a timely manner. As soon as you start feeling little aches and pains in knees, hips, or ankles and there's no other good reason for them, it's time for new sneakers. Runners should get a new pair every 300 to 500 miles, but if you feel these nagging aches before then, try new shoes.
