Subscribe RSS Feed[ReviewAZON asin="B0029F2GRE" display="inlinepost"]Are you a larger-framed runner looking for a better pair of shoes? If so, you are hardly alone. But with all the different types of running shoes out there, where should you begin?
The First Step
The first step is the same as for anyone else – do your homework. The more you learn about your particular type of foot motion and your specific needs as a larger runner, the better the shoe will work for you. A site like Cross Country Running Shoes 101 is a good place to help you get started.
Let’s look at some of the shoe features you will want to pay special attention to as a larger runner: support, motion control, and cushioning. If you don’t understand any of those terms, that’s OK. This article is just an introduction, the terms will soon become familiar.
Support Shoes
Support shoes are made for runners who display a type of foot motion called over-pronation. So if you do over-pronate and need a support shoe, then you could benefit by increasing the support by one level. For example, if you show mild over-pronation, then try a moderate support shoe (instead of a mild support shoe).
Motion Control Shoes
Motion control shoes are made for severely over-pronating runners. However, larger runners can also benefit from motion control, especially if training at high mileage (25+ miles per week).
- Moderate motion control – good if you show moderate over-pronation
- Maximum motion control – good if you show severe over-pronation
Cushioning
Cushioning refers to how long the shoe provides efficient shock absoption before breaking down, not how soft and cushy it feels. Cushioning is also related to the size of a runner’s body frame. A larger runner quickly breaks down a lightly-cushioned shoe, causing it to wear out faster, so you will want to look at shoes with moderate or maximum cushioning.
- Moderate cushioning – Good for occasional running
- Maximum cushioning – Good for daily runners or high-mileage runners
The Next Step
Once you have a better idea of what features to look for in a running shoe, then you are ready to visit a good specialty running store. There’s no need to feel anxious or intimidated at the idea of visiting a running store. It doesn’t matter what your size, shape, or speed is. The staff at any store worth your business is likely to truly enjoy helping you find the right shoes.
They should ask you what your goals are and what sort of surfaces you will be running on. They should also help you determine your type of foot motion (pronation), and let you go for a short run in different pairs of shoes. Take your time, and do what feels right to you. After all, you will be logging lots of miles in those shoes!
Tags: exercise, fitness, running, running shoes