Think any old shoe will do? For ambling around the neighborhood, maybe, but if you're a runner? Think again. Shoes matter. In a recent issue of the London Metro, British gold-medalist runner Darren Campbell told readers that "up to 60 percent of sports injuries, particularly knee, shin and back, are caused by unsuitable footwear." Yikes. So, obviously, it's important to find your "sole mate."

According to the experts at Runners World, the key to finding the right shoe is understanding your feet. Consider this:

• People with normal feet need shoes that offer stability.
• People with flat feet need firm shoes with control features.
• People with high arches need shoes that are cushioned and flexible.

Hmm -- those are some pretty differing requirements. So, I guess this means you can't just go for the shoes that look best? Dang. Learn more about your feet and browse a big plethora of info. over at Runner's World -- your feet (and back, and legs, and cavles ... ) will thank you.