Sole searching season

Running shoes are an essential tool for any passionate runner. Over the past fifty years, shoe design technologies have evolved significantly. We’ve moved from traditional to minimalist, and now see a focus on maximalist shoes.

With confusion in the marketplace, how do you choose the right running shoes for yourself this summer?

Finding a balance of comfort and performance

Increasingly, studies suggest modern shoes, with excessive cushioning and stabilizing features, do not play as crucial a role in injury prevention as previously thought. The best prevention strategies actually focus more on strength training, proper running technique, appropriate progression and frequency of training sessions.

Optimum running technique suggests initial foot contact with the ground at the midfoot or forefoot, as well as short and quick strides to reduce impact force. A lightweight, flexible shoe with moderate cushioning is ideal for promoting this technique and strengthening the muscles of the foot and leg.

However, it is important not to overlook cushioned and stabilizing shoes. They can be helpful for those suffering from tendon or foot injuries, as they provide additional support and shock absorption, which can relieve stress on the injured area.

The type of training also plays a key role in choosing the right shoe. High-intensity sessions—such as intervals—require more cushioning to reduce impact. In contrast, long, low-intensity runs are better suited to lighter shoes that offer less cushioning but more flexibility. While this may seem contradictory, it’s the intensity of the effort, not its duration, that should guide your shoe choice

It’s also crucial to respect a training progression. Whether you’re a beginner, returning from an injury, or restarting your season after a winter away from the sport, start with short sessions alternating between running and walking, gradually increasing your running time at each session.

Pick your pair for the season. See you on the run.