Running is one of the most popular forms of exercise, and for good reason: it’s a great way to get your heart rate up, strengthen your muscles, and clear your head. But if you’re a serious runner, you know that choosing the right footwear can be just as important as choosing the right workout.
Many runners are warned about the perils of cheap running shoes. The oft-repeated justification for a pricey pair of footwear is that running shoes are an investment – and don’t we want to invest in the very best? But when the average price of a pair of running shoes in a specialty running store is $114, that investment can sometimes sting. Do you really get what you pay for? Yes and no, says RunRepeat founder and statistician Jens Jakob Andersen.
The Importance of Specialized Running Shoes
Though all-purpose athletic shoes are often sold at lower price points than shoes designed specifically for running, they’re also not designed to withstand the rigors of running; treads wear down faster, and uppers disintegrate earlier. That alone makes a compelling case for investing in a dedicated running shoe, which usually costs more than their all-purpose counterparts.
“While any shoe can be used for any activity, it’s important to note that running shoes are crafted to function more resiliently than regular sporty kicks,” says Andersen. “The reason why specialty running shoes get more appreciation than regular footwear is that they have the features, the materials, and the construction to go with their price tags.”
The Science of Running Shoe Design
Shoes specific to running have a precise construction, designed to hold the foot, encourage forward motion, and maintain comfort. Andersen notes that running shoe technology is continually evolving, fueled by a distinct body of research that looks to create faster, healthier, and happier runners. All-purpose athletic shoes, on the other hand, haven’t changed much over the years: “General athletic shoes tend to reuse the same materials, the same assets, and the same blueprints. Their manufacturers hardly innovate; in some cases, they even imitate.”
But innovation comes at a cost – the more expensive a running shoe is, the more likely the design is a result of a lot of people doing a lot of research. Still, that doesn’t mean that pricier running shoes are always better. In fact, Andersen’s study of 391 shoe styles from 24 running shoe brands found that the higher the list price of a running shoe, the lower ratings from customers.
Finding the Right Running Shoe
Choosing the right running shoe is a highly individual process that depends on several factors, including your foot shape, gait, and the type of running you do. When shopping for a new pair of running shoes, it’s important to keep these factors in mind and to seek out expert advice from a specialty running store.
While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper, all-purpose athletic shoe, investing in a dedicated running shoe can make a significant difference in your running experience. Not only can they help prevent injuries by providing proper support and cushioning, but they can also enhance your performance by improving your gait and increasing your overall comfort.
It’s also worth noting that investing in a good pair of running shoes can ultimately save you money in the long run. By choosing a shoe that is designed specifically for running and is made of high-quality materials, you can ensure that your shoes will last longer and won’t need to be replaced as frequently.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to invest in a pricey pair of running shoes or to opt for a cheaper, all-purpose athletic shoe comes down to your individual needs and preferences. While specialized running shoes can offer numerous benefits, they may not be necessary for everyone.
If you’re a casual runner who only runs a few times a week, you may be able to get away with a cheaper, all-purpose shoe. But if you’re a serious runner who puts in a lot of miles each week and is concerned about performance and injury prevention, investing in a high-quality pair of running shoes is likely worth the investment.
In conclusion, the old adage “you get what you pay for” certainly applies when it comes to running shoes. While specialized running shoes may be more expensive than all-purpose athletic shoes, they are designed specifically for the demands of running and can offer numerous benefits in terms of performance, comfort, and injury prevention. So, if you’re serious about running, it’s worth investing in a good pair of running shoes that will support and protect your feet as you log those miles.
