Not all Women’s Running Shoes are the same. Which ones are good for me?
Women’s running shoes can be found in very different shapes and models, not only as regards the fashionable aspect, but also and above all as regards the technical characteristics. The question is only one: Which ones are good for me? In short, if I have to buy a pair of women’s running shoes, how can I find out about all the available offers?
The running shoe
When you wake up your feet can be up to half a size smaller than at the end of the day, when they swell in both volume and width. It is best to try on running shoes in the afternoon or evening, to account for the swelling your feet will experience during a long run or race. Since running shoes are mostly made of fabric, they don’t break down over time like a leather hiking boot does. They should be 100% comfortable and wearable effortlessly, and without compromise.
A running shoe fits well when:
– You have about a finger-wide space between the big toe and the front of the shoe.
– The heel and midfoot do not lift, slide or rub.
– The shoe does not squeeze the foot, nor does it create hot spots or pressure points.
– You can comfortably bend your foot without feeling the shoe pinch or squeeze.
Waterproof and breathable fabrics
Waterproof and breathable shoe models are ideal for wet and cold environments, for muddy trails and for running on wet grass or bushes; however they can give the impression of being hot and sweaty when worn in summer. The membrane adds an extra layer to the upper, making waterproof running shoes a little heavier than non-waterproof shoes. To keep them running, it is a good idea to clean regularly your waterproof/breathable shoes so that the pores are not clogged with dust and dirt.
Closures
While you can find running shoes with hook and loop fasteners, most runners prefer the safety and fit of laces. With a classic lacing system you can vary the pressure on the top of the foot, for example by skipping some eyelets. If you have problems with sensitive pressure points or blackened nails, it may be a simple solution to replace the pad. If you find your laces loosen too much on long runs, a shoe that features a quick lacing system might be a good option.
Mild to moderate stability
To stabilize your gait, and to prevent your ankles from protruding or collapsing inward, consider adopting stabilizing shoes: they are designed to limit lateral movement as your foot moves through the step, support and deadlift of each stride.
When to replace your running shoes
Running in worn-out shoes can cause injuries, joint problems, and pain. The surface you run on, your weight, and your running pace will affect how quickly your shoes wear. And even if you don’t run frequently, the EVA padding in the insole and midsole will begin to break down over time, and it will lose its initial softness.
Most manufacturers recommend replacing running shoes after approximately 750-900km. So, if you run 20km every week, that means getting a new pair of running shoes at least once a year. If you’re not in the habit of tracking your mileage, you can look for signs of wear that indicate when it might be time to retire your old running shoes:
– The outsole is worn and the midsole is visible.
– The sole is deformed or has longitudinal grooves.
– You cannot feel the compression of the foam when you press the midsole with your fingers.
– The buttress lining is worn or the buttress has lost its firmness.
– The upper is worn, has holes or is starting to tear.
– You’ve replaced your shoelaces more than twice.
– Shoes give off a bad smell even after washing them.
So is there the best women’s running shoe, the best in the absolute sense? Probably not, every person is different, but with what has just been said we are sure that you will find the best running shoe for you among these 10, at the top of the market in terms of performance and quality/ratio price.