by Dr. Phil Maffetone
A recent New York Times article by Lesley Alderman—“For Running Shoes, It’s Fit First and Price Last”—got the attention of many triathletes and runners. It discussed minimalist running shoes, being barefoot, and the use of inexpensive options over high tech expensive footwear. Alderman sited two studies that basically showed what was most important in finding a good shoe: “fit first and price last.”
A good recommendation. Fit—including the comfort of the shoe when you immediately put it on—should be almost perfect. But not while you’re standing there on a carpeted floor since it’s not how you’re putting the shoes to work. Walk or even run on a hard surface. If necessary, go outside of the store and use them. It makes finding the best shoe through the Internet more challenging, as many athletes settle for a not-so-good fit rather than send a pair back.
Here’s how I explain some issues of proper fit:
1. Never assume you’ll take the same size as your previous shoe, even if it’s the same type or model.