Cushioning, drop, width, stability: what actually matters when you are buying your first pair, and what you can safely ignore.
Buying your first pair of running shoes should not feel like homework. Start with these four questions.
How does your foot land?
Heel, midfoot or forefoot: most runners land on the heel, and that is fine. Our Gait Lab can show you in slow motion, but the wear pattern on an old pair of shoes is a good clue too.
How much cushioning do you want?
Max cushioning feels plush on long, slow runs. Lighter shoes feel faster but give you less protection. If in doubt, pick the middle.
Does it fit your foot shape?
You want a thumb's width in front of your longest toe, a secure heel and no pressure across the forefoot.
Fit beats features, every time.
Try them in motion
Walk, jog on the spot, take a few strides on our test strip. You should forget the shoe is there within a minute.
