Finding the
Best Running Shoes for Men

While price isn’t always an indication of a product’s quality and functionality, it can be so with running shoes since first-rate materials as well as testing and design processes generally cost more money.  Running shoes outfitted with high-grade foam, efficient cushioning system, durable upper and sole, and reliable traction are more likely to last longer and withstand the impact of running than those that are made with cheap but poor quality materials.

However, expensive materials alone won’t necessarily make for a comfortable pair of running shoes, and this is where design and testing processes come in. Poorly engineered and constructed shoes that didn’t go through proper testing are only bound to fail and disappoint you because the kind and amount of support, stability, protection and comfort that the shoes would be able to give would depend largely on the design and may be determined only by putting them to various types of tests. So while price may be one of your considerations when you go looking for the best running shoes for men, you should also think long-term and weigh the possible gains and losses you’ll make from what you’re willing to invest in and pay for.

While we shouldn’t need any more reminding when it comes to fit, it’s still important to know how to you can properly tell when a pair of running shoes is too large, too small, too narrow or too wide for you. Otherwise, you’ll walk out of the shop thinking you got the fit right and then end up wondering where you got it wrong. So to help keep you from running in annoying pain and discomfort, here are some tips on how to test running shoes for proper fit.

Now, these are quite easy to follow and remember but, sometimes, it’s the simple things that we tend to overlook so it’s good to review and be reminded of them before making a purchase.

• It should be able to give a comfortable fit through your midfoot, and lock in your heel securely so that there’s only little or no slipping at the heel.
• It should have enough wiggle room for your toes. There should be a thumb’s width of space between the front of the shoe and the tip of your longest toe.
• Our feet generally tend to swell when we exercise so there should be a half-centimeter empty space over your big toe to allow for the growth.
• It should be tight enough to keep your foot from wiggling but loose enough to keep the blood circulating freely.

Factor in breathability based on conditions you expect to run in. Running shoes with meshed upper that lets your feet breathe are ideal for running in cold or rainy weather while less breathable shoes may be better for running in summer heat.