How to Choose the Best Running Shoes for a Marathon

Step 1

Get to know your body better. It is esssential to know your arch type when shoe shopping. You can find this by wetting your bare foot and stepping on a white piece of paper. Compare your print to an arch type guide. A great site for finding your shoe type is www.roadrunnersports.com and click on the ShoeDog icon next to your gender to walk through the steps. They will ask for your weight and take you through my steps below.

Step 2

Assess the type of training you will be doing. Your weekly mileage and terrain type is going to make an immense impact on your shoe selection. You are going to need extra coushin for pavement or more support for trail running. The amount of mileage weekly will affect again your coushin level needed and you will want shoes specific for your distance. This is important whether you are a 25 mile a week marathon trainer or a pro hitting closer to 100 miles per week.

Step 3

After running through these steps you will find the type of shoe you will need; Stability, Neutral, or Motion Control. Once this is determined you can find your type of shoe in any brand. Please keep in mind all brands carry all types, so try not to base your current decision on past experiences with brands when it was probably an improper fitting that may have caused an ill review.

Step 4

Once you find your type, start to look for the color or style that fits you. Obviously darker colors will show less dirt and wear. Make it fun, and be prepared to splurge a little. Average quality running shoes will cost anywhere from $50-$180. In the long run a little extra money could save you a lot by protecting you from injury and by giving you the finish you're working toward.

Step 5

Preserve your equipment by keeping them dry and using them only for their intended purpose. Running shoes are made for running. Period. The right shoes will carry you 300-500 miles. After that, be smart and replace your equipment promply.