The one question to ask yourself before buying running shoes
If you’re ready to add to cart new joggers, an expert is urging you to ask this crucial question first.
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If your runners are looking more tired than you do after a 10 kilometre jog, it’s probably time to invest in a new pair. But before you add to cart any old variety, The Iconic’s Performance Footwear Buyer Steven Waterhouse says there’s an important question to answer.
“Keep in mind where you are planning to do most of your running. Planning on hitting the pavement? Opt for a classic road shoe. These shoes offer a thicker, spongier sole than other styles to cushion the impact and minimise your risk of injury,” Steven tells news.com.au.
“If trails are more your thing, invest in a pair of quality trail shoes which provide solid ankle support and a deep tread for greater grip.
“If you tend to mix it up and run in different environments, consider a hybrid running shoe with the ideal mix of grip and cushioning.”
To kick off your browsing, here are the best running shoes for women and men.
ROAD RUNNING SHOES
While heading out the door and smashing out a run on the pavement is a simple and straightforward workout, it also has a big impact on your joints. When picking road running shoes, the more cushioning, the better. Choose a supportive pair with added padding that will absorb some of the impact from the concrete you’re gliding over.
WOMEN
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit, on sale at The Iconic, $195.50
Lorna Jane Perform Run Shoe, $99.99
Puma LQDCell Shatter XT NC, $140
Brooks Glycerin 18, $249.99
Nike Zoom Gravity, $130
MEN
Asics GEL-Quantum 180 5, $200
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 20, $229.95
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit A.I.R., $240
TRAIL RUNNING SHOES
While there’s something magical about running through the bush, there’s nothing worse than your shoes failing you when you’re far from civilisation. Choose dependable trail run shoes that provide extra grip (for those loose pebbles and slippery leaves) and with adequate ankle support.
WOMEN
Asics Fuji Trabuco Lyte, $160
Brooks Cascadia 14, $229.99
New Balance Hierro V5, $219.99
Salomon Speedcross 4, $199.99
MEN
Nike Wildhorse 6, $170
Saucony Peregrine Iso, on sale at The Athlete’s Foot, $109.99 (down from $219.99)
Asics Gel Sonoma 5 Gore Tex, $169.99
Hoka One One Speedgoat 4, $269.99
HYBRID SHOES (FOR ROAD AND TRAIL RUNNING)
We get it, you don’t appreciate being placed in the “road runner” or “trail runner” box. Thankfully, hybrid shoes combine the best attributes of both running shoes to give you a supportive run whatever the terrain. With extra cushioning and added grip, a pair of hybrid shoes is a safe bet for all runners.
WOMEN
Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 6, $190
Lorna Jane LJ Elevate Blaze Shoes, $99.99
MEN
Merrell MQM Flex Gore Tex, $179.99
Nike Air Zoom Wio 6, $150
Brooks GTX Ghost 12, on sale at The Athlete’s Foot, $199.99 (down from $259.99)
Puma Hybrid Astro, on sale at The Iconic, $127.50 (down from $170)
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