A good, comfortable pair of running shoes is essential for marathon success. Running shoes vary widely in price, and are usually the major investment a marathon runner must make. A marathon runner who logs over 200 miles a month often buys 5 or 6 pairs of running shoes a year.
Instructions
1. Plan to buy the shoes that you will wear in the marathon at least a month ahead of time so that you can break them in and see if they suit you. 75 miles of running, including at least one longer run of 15 miles or more, should be sufficient time to break in a pair of shoes and screen them for problems. Never run a marathon in a new pair of shoes, even if it is the same shoe model and size that has worked for you in the past. The break-in period ensures that a shoe is the right model for you, and it also conforms the shoes to your foot shape, gait and footfall patterns.
2. Learn the basic terms in the universal running shoe glossary and how they apply to you. You will want to know whether you have a high arch, a normal arch, or relatively flat feet. Heavier runners tend to look for shoes whose makers highlight "stability." Pronation is the normal inward roll of the foot as it strikes the ground and lifts off, but runners who pronate too much or too little may prefer certain shoe models designed for those conditions.
3. Review the regular running shoe comparisons in magazines like "Runner's World" and "Running Times" to educate yourself about shoe cushioning, stability, weight, durability, price and other issues before you buy.
4. Visit a running shoe specialty store to buy the best pair of running shoes for you. These stores often employ experienced runners who love to talk about shoes, other gear and running issues in general. At a store like Marathon Sports in the Boston area, the staff will get you onto a treadmill or take you out to the sidewalk to observe your running biomechanics and help you find the best fit. Bring your running socks with you when you go to buy running shoes so that you can simulate the actual fit you will get while running.
5. Use a discount, mail-order or online shoe retailer only if you are replacing a pair of running shoes with the same model. Trying on a new model and running around the block in the shoes is essential.
6. Keep at least 2 pairs of "active" running shoes at all times so that you can alternate shoes every other day. Allowing shoes to dry out and air out prolongs their lives.
7. Unless you are an elite marathoner, avoid using ultra-light "racing" shoes for a marathon. 26.2 miles is a punishing distance for most feet, and you need shoes that provide comfort and support.
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