How Important is Your Footwear Choice?

In today’s marketplace, we are in a shoe buyer’s heaven. Everywhere we turn, there’s a shoe store and in almost every magazine, there are ads galore for new shoes and boots. But are all things equal? Here is where I chime in with a big resounding, NO.
     First off, we are faced with the typical mall store, usually a chain shoe store that employs people without any degree of knowledge of how to fit shoes. Many times, they also sell shoes that one would never find elsewhere. For example, New Balance, a great shoe company, sells shoes to theses stores that are not found in running stores and running magazines. They are different, not as well made, yet are perfect for the typical mall shopper.
     Specialty outdoor stores such as running stores, backpacking and camping stores, carry shoes that are well made and well known. This is important since we can find reviews of these shoes online and in sport specific magazines. This allows us to shop with a high degree of knowledge that the shoes we buy are made for our sports and will perform well. These stores also have salespeople who can fit shoes and help you choose between several pair.
     There are running shoes (and this means road shoes and trail shoes), walking shoes cross trainers, and other sport specific shoes. I can walk in running shoes but would not run in walking shoes. I can run and walk in most cross trainers, but would be wise to not use walking and running shoes for a serious game of basketball or other court sport. I can run on trails in most road shoes, although I may sacrifice traction and support. While I can also run on roads in trails shoes, they are often clunky, heavier, and not as flexible.
     My preference is to use shoes for what they are intended for. I have road and trails shoes and I use them for their intended purpose. Your choice in footwear is important. When shopping for shoes, look for those made for your sport. When participating in sports, use shoes designed for that specific sport. Your feet will thank you.