When most people think about running, they think they can just get any pair of sport shoes from their closet and hit the road. However, this is one of the biggest mistakes most people make. Running is an exercise that requires specific types of shoes. Women particularly benefit from wearing the right running shoes. This post will discuss the basics of womens running shoes.
Types of running shoes for women
There isn’t one specific type of shoes that is considered as womens run shoes. Rather, there is a wide variety of options from which women can choose. Below is a list of the standard types of womens running shoes:
- Stability shoes – these are shoes that are designed to offer stability when you are running. They are an ideal choice for women that suffer from overpronation and ones that require ample arch support. They are usually designed with more built top parts and extra overlay to assist in balance maintenance. This design also makes them really durable.
- Minimalist shoes – these running shoes for women are designed with little cushioning. Also, they have a low heel-to-toe drop, which makes them perfect for jogging as they allow for a natural slide. They are very flexible and affordable.
- Motion control shoes – these are shoes built for women with excessive pronation. These are women whose feet slide excessively inward when they land on the ground. They feature firmer heels, denser foam, and greatly-constructed tops. Furthermore, they have an overlay for more functionality.
- Cushioning shoes – as the name suggests, these shoes are designed for proper cushioning. The added cushioning allows your foot to roll inward for better shock absorption. Cushioning shoes have an extraordinarily soft midsole that offer added support.
- Neutral shoes – these running shoes are designed for women with moderate foot mobility. They mostly come with square tops and minimal overlays. Also, most of the time, they have a consistent midsole.
- Barefoot shoes – these running shoes for women are designed with thin bottoms and no heel-to-toe drop. They are light, durable, flexible, and designed to protect your feet against any weather.
How to choose the best running shoes for women
Now that you know the different types of running shoes for women, you have to choose the best one for you. Below are some qualities you have to consider when choosing the best womens running shoes:
- Cushioning – consider a pair that provides ample cushioning depending on your needs and how your feet move when running. Ample cushioning provides good ground-contact stability. They also protect the feet from injuries from contact with the ground. In other words, they act as shock absorbers.
- Weight – the weight of the shoes affects how easily you can raise your feet from the ground and the amount of effort you have to apply. However, it is also worth noting that lighter shoes have less cushioning. This allows them to bounce off the ground and allow for quick splits. If you want a pair for long distance running, then shoes with more cushioning (which are heavier) would be the best choice, and vice versa.
- Heel drop – this is the difference between the cushioning in the forefoot and backfoot. Shoes with a smaller heel drop are more suited for fast running. So, the type of running will determine your choice.
- Shoe length and width – make sure you get a pair of running shoes that allows your toes to move flexibly. Your feet should not feel constrained. It is worth noting that as you run, your feet tend to expand. So, when choosing a pair of running shoes, you have to leave room for expansion and flexibility. Also, make sure that there is enough space between your longest toes and your heel, to allow for comfort and perfect length.
- Composition of the shoes – consider getting a pair of seamless shoes with reinforced stitching and quality fabric for longevity.
- Support – the shoe should offer ample support to prevent injuries like knee soreness, bruising, and other injuries.
Other than the specific characteristics of the shoes, you also have to consider comfort-related elements like the breathability of the shoes. The shoes should help keep your feet dry thanks to elements like open air circulation and breathable materials.
Something else that matters is the support. A good pair of running shoes should offer adequate support and protect your feet from injuries. Also, the material of the shoes is something worth considering. The material affects the comfort, longevity, comfort, and performance of the shoes. The cost of the shoes is also worth looking into.
Get a good pair of running shoes for women
Runners Need is a great place to get a good pair of running shoes for women. Consider the information above when choosing the best pair from the vast collection of choices at Runners Need. Make sure you choose a pair of running shoes that fits your needs as well as your budget. Remember that a good pair of running shoes will protect your feet and give you comfort when running or jogging.