How Do You Choose Your Running Shoes?
Do you have the same running shoes for a two-mile run and a twelve-mile run? We believe that different types of running shoes are ideal for different distances. Each training run has a specific purpose. There are a variety of running shoes to help you reach your training goals, and we’re here to help you navigate the differences.
How Many Running Shoes?
What Are the Differences?
- Long Run – Typically anything over five miles but often referring to distances over ten miles.
- Tempo – aka threshold run, where a runner maintains a speed just below race pace. The tempo run is often described as a “comfortably hard” workout. This type of run is best done with a Coach who can determine your tempo pace with you.
- Speedwork – Short distances such as 400 meters and 800 meters at a maintained pace below race pace, with repeated sets. Also best done with a coach. Check out St. Pete Running Company’s Track Program HERE.
Which Running Shoes For Which Workout?
When it comes to selecting running shoes for a type of workout, we highly suggest you start by getting a proper shoe fitting.
You’ll see this piece of advice repeated because it’s THAT important. Every foot and every stride is unique. A proper shoe fitting will set you up for success in selecting the best possible running shoes for you. At St. Pete Running Company, our one-of-a-kind StrideSmart Shoe Fitting is for walkers and runners alike. We take a full body approach to evaluating your stride, your gait, and our shoe experts make recommendations about any areas that could use improvement. This is a free evaluation, so there’s nothing holding you back from this very important step. We also have the top running shoe brands in the country for you to get your feet inside. No appointment needed, so come by today!
Neutral Versus Stability
One important difference between types of running shoes is whether the shoe falls into the neutral category or the stability category. Our fit process allows our shoe experts to identify which type of shoes (neutral or stability) you will need. It’s important not to self-diagnose this aspect because selecting a stability shoe when you need a neutral shoe (and vice versa) can actually lead to injury. Please come in and see the experts first to be evaluated!
Simply put, a neutral gait means a runner or walker’s stride is level with the ground. An overpronating gait means there is an aspect of the stride that is out of alignment, typically at the ankle, and this runner or walker would benefit from a stability shoe.
Selecting Your Running Shoes
The following running shoe examples are given as possible options for a certain type of workout. This is just a starting point. When you come in and have a shoe fitting at St. Pete Running Company, you’ll have the opportunity to try on a variety of running shoe types. Every person has different preferences, so keep in mind that even with these suggestions, the best way to select types of running shoes for specific workouts is to try on the shoes in person and not simply order online without making sure they feel good on your feet.
Where to Buy Running Shoes
If you still have questions about how many types of running shoes you should have, we can help! Call or come into the store where our shoe experts are ready to provide the high-quality customer service you expect from a Top 50 Running Store in America.
