It is hard not to think about running shoes, the one important piece of gear that supports the feet, while one thinks about running. While looking to buy a new pair of shoes, people put a lot of thought and consideration into the brand, the size, the colour, the material, and its utility. Nowadays, there are numerous models specially designed for running available in the market which can make it difficult for first-time buyers. Selecting a good pair of running shoes, like Altra shoes, Adidas Shoes, Nike Air Jordan 1 etc. is pertinent to having a healthy running routine. But running shoes also come with their set of myths and false notions, and one needs to be aware of the amount of truth in them while selecting the best running shoes that suit one’s needs.
1) One perfect or best running shoe exists
One of the first questions that come to mind while looking to buy running shoes is “What is the best running shoe available now?” expecting a name drop with the highest rating on the list. However, it is not that simple. Each running shoe is designed differently for different types of running, people’s feet, gender, and strides. What may be considered a “perfect shoe” might not be perfect for all. Shoes are diverse, and the fact that they worked well for others might not mean the same for the buyer. The rank lists provided by popular magazines only mean that those shoes work well for what they are designed to do. It is upon the user to find out what works for them with the help of shoe guides.
2) There is no difference between men’s and women’s running shoes apart from their colours
Many sporting shoe manufacturers offer various ranges of running shoes specially designed for men and women. But, apart from the obvious colour and size differences, are there any other significant differences between them that affect one’s running? Yes. Female feet are narrower, smaller and more flexible, taking up much less volume when compared to the male ones. Additionally, women and men differ in their body weight, motor control and their gait. All these and more factors are taken into account while designing running shoes for men and women in terms of cushioning, construction and fit. For example, the heel of women’s running shoes has a flexible and lighter midsole when compared to the men’s.
3) Running shoes, especially lighter ones, can help one run faster
This is one of the oldest myths present about shoes. Just wearing shoes does not make a person propel like a jet on the podium. The truth is that good shoes assist a person in their running by protecting their feet from the stresses of the body and the ground. The power and speed of the run come from the build of one’s heart, lungs, muscles and practice. Fast running time depends on one’s running form and body weight too. Lighter shoes may not benefit novice runners who might not possess the required muscle stability. Although a good pair of shoes like Altra shoes make a significant impact, the runner’s condition determines their speed.
4) One prescription for a lifetime
One might think that the running shoes that are fitted by an expert in a speciality store are the only ones that are perfect for them. But the prescription of shoes varies over time based on several factors like genetic conditions, one’s speed, efficiency, stride habits, balance, range of motions, muscular strength and weight. Therefore, as these running characteristics change, so do the best shoes.
