How to Choose a Woman's Running Shoe

If you're an enthusiastic female runner, you know how quickly you can go through a pair of running shoes. That's why it's important to pick a quality pair of shoes that will withstand frequent usage and, most of all, help to prevent a running injury. There is a dizzying array of women's running shoes available these days which makes choosing the right pair a challenge for even the most knowledgeable athlete. Here are some tips for choosing the right women's running shoes:

Understand your arch type.

It's important to understand if you have a high arch or a flat one since this may alter your running shoe selection. One way to determine the status of your arch is to wet one of your feet and step on a dry piece of paper. If you can see the imprint of your entire foot, you have a flat arch. If you can only see the forefoot and heel, your arch is high.

Choose your shoe on the basis of your arch type.

If you have a high arch, your feet are likely to roll outwards as they hit the ground, meaning you should choose a woman's running shoe with cushioned midsoles. If your arch is flat, your foot is more likely to roll inward when you hit the pavement, meaning you'll need a more rigid insole to keep you foot in line when you run.

Buy your shoes from a store that specializes in running shoes.

The advantage to choosing a woman's running shoe from a specialty store is that you can get expert advice on which shoes to select as well as have a chance to test the shoe while in the store. This may not be possible if you go to a discount store. When you test your chosen running shoes, jog around the store until you can determine how the shoe feels on your foot. Try on many pairs of shoes before making your final decision. Don't hesitate to ask the people who help you questions. Many of the salespeople in specialty sports shoe stores are quite knowledgeable in the art of choosing women's running shoes.

Understand how to determine a proper fit.

A running shoe that fits properly should have at least a half inch of room beyond your toes. The shoe should fit snuggly but not so tight that you experience discomfort. It's helpful to wait until later in the day to try on running shoes when your feet are their largest due to swelling. Be sure to take along the same type of socks you use while running to wear while trying on running shoes.

Know when its time to replace your old running shoes.

If you run five days a week, you should aim for replacing your women's running shoes every four to five months. At this point, the cushion support of the shoe starts to break down and you may experience an increased risk of a running injury.

Choosing a women's running shoe that will cushion your foot and protect your foot from and legs from injury is critical to your running success. Don't skimp on your choice of running shoe or you could end up paying dearly for it with a serious overuse injury.