The best tip for choosing the right shoe for your foot and activity is that it should immediately feel comfortable.  You should never have to “break in” a new pair of shoes!  Our Optimum Stride running therapists always recommend, whether walking or running, to choose a shoe designed for running.  There are many brands of running shoes on the market, and they offer a great variety of fit and support.  With such a large selection, choosing the right shoe can feel intimidating.
Regardless of the brand, all running shoes fit into categories:
Cushioned/neutral
Stability
Motion control
Cushioned/neutral: this is best for the light weight runner or lower mileage runner and walker.  These shoes are lighter and will provide a good amount of shock absorption. If you don’t need a lot of support through your arch to be comfortable or are have trouble with aching in your knees, hips or low back, this might be a good choice!
Stability: this type of shoe is good for the majority of runners and walkers.  It will still offer a good amount of cushion and shock absorption but also provides some mild-moderate support through the arch.  This shoe may “hold up” better to more pounding and increased miles. If you are questioning what category of shoe to choose, this is a safe bet for most people.
Motion Control: this shoe is best for heavier runners that have trouble with shoes breaking down too quickly or need a large amount of support through the arch to be comfortable. Typically, these shoes have less of a “cushioned” feel and are a heavier, more solid shoe.