Running can be a great way to relieve stress and get in shape. But like with everything else, some of the gear could be pretty expensive, and shoes are no exception.
Most people suggest only utilizing shoes for 300 miles before replacing them. A more expensive set of shoes might not be in the cards for those with a tight budget.
The good thing is that there are many great running shoes out there that are affordable.
To show you’re getting the best bang for your buck, though, you need to know what you should be looking at, period, so we have decided to put together a quick guide that will help you avoid some mistakes and know what to look for when purchasing cheap running shoes.
Key Features To Look Out For In Cheap Running Shoes
Whether you are purchasing an expensive set of quality running shoes or cheap ones, certain factors have to be taken into consideration. Here’s a list of the ones we think are the most important:
Budget
There are a lot of things that more expensive means better. But this isn’t necessarily the case when it comes to running shoes. You may have to search a little longer and be a little more patient, but there are running shoes out there that won’t break the bank. Consider your budget, and then take the time to look for a pair of shoes that offers everything within it.
Arch Support
When it comes to construction, you want to look for a comfortable midsole and a pair of shoes that offer good arch support. The arch support is directly related to how comfortable of a run you have. So please pay attention to the metrics when it comes to this factor. Finding the right one will allow you to get more out of your shoe.
Cushioning
Just because you’re getting a pair of cheap running shoes doesn’t mean you have to be uncomfortable. Taking a look at the cushioning is essential. After all, if you have too much, you could worsen your gait and end up overcorrecting. When you’re looking for cushioning, you want to look for a heel-toe drop no more significant than 6 millimeters.
Toe Box Space
When it comes to buying a pair of running shoes, there is one thing to which you have to pay attention. There should be a thumb width of space between the top of your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Along with this, you also need to consider the toe box. You want it to be big enough for you to have space for your toes to move around easily.
Style
Patience is critical when you’re looking for a high-quality, budget-friendly running shoe. You want to try different styles and different brands. By doing that, you should also be successful in finding the correct width, toe box, and enough support. So take your time and consider where you’re putting your money.
Soles
Before you head out to look for your cheap pair of running shoes, make sure to check the soles of the shoes you currently are using. By doing this, you should be able to see your foot strikes.
Understanding how your foot lands when you’re running will help you in the process of purchasing an affordable pair of running shoes. In fact, you might want to take your running shoes with you so that the associate can help you find a pair of shoes that will offer support in the right places.
A popular type of soles that runners opt for is the EVA material.
Online Reviews
Reviews are opinions, but they are vital when you’re looking to find the highest quality for the least money. By reading up on reviews of the options you’ve chosen, you’ll be able to narrow your selection down.
You’ll be able to know if there are problems with the shoes or if they have sizing issues. Also, people will often discuss durability, as will the company. Checking out reviews can be a helpful way to ensure you’re putting your money into a good investment.
What Not to Do! Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Running Shoes
So now that you know what to look for, let’s talk about two of the biggest mistakes to avoid:
- Not Measuring – Everybody thinks they know what size shoes they wear. But a common mistake for runners is to assume that they do. You should, when you enter a shoe store, immediately get your foot measured so that you’re ensuring you’re getting the correct width and length. Along with this, this will help with arch length two.
- Size – Whether you don’t want to go up a size or you opt to buy too big of a size, this is one of the biggest mistakes people make. The sizing of the shoe is essential. You need to make sure that you have the thumb length between the tip of your longest toe and the end of the shoe. But you also need to make sure that it’s comfortable and fits your foot correctly, meaning that there’s not too much room.
- Getting fitted – If its your first pair of running shoes and you aren’t exactly aware of your foot type and gait you will want to go into a specialized running shoe store as they will be able to see which shoes are suitable for you and make recommendations. It is also a good way to get introduced to the wide range of running shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions On Buying Cheap Running Shoes
The truth is that a more expensive running shoe does not make it a better option. The design and the materials used in it are what matters. The final decision on running shoes being the right one is if they serve their purpose for you.
Good running shoes come in all price ranges. The key to proper shoes is the design, and an excellent running shoe will not only make the runner more comfortable when they’re running but also safer. Finding a good pair of shoes can make quite the difference depending on what type of running you’re doing.
Final Thoughts
We have looked at what you should look at when investing in a pair of cheap running shoes. In the end, the same thing you would look at when you are purchasing an expensive pair is exactly what you should look at when you’re purchasing a cheaper pair.
Finding a pair of shoes that you’re comfortable with that fits your foot well will improve your running experience, and that is what really matters. While you’re here, check out the 21 most frequently asked questions on running shoes to educate further.
Marko Rakic is a trail runner and fitness enthusiast from Sydney, Australia. He is the lead writer for The Ultimate Primate and believes the best way to live a happy life is through constantly challenging yourself.
