Geared up for running?

I used to be a sales representative selling running shoes in a well known sports store where I've gained a lot about picking up the right type of running shoes and learned from demanding costumers. In picking new running shoes there are ways you can learn about your feet. The easiest one is to look at the wear pattern on the souls of your shoes. Knowing something about what type of foot you have before you head to the running shoe store can at least steer you toward a range of models with the specific technology to address your potential problems.

My old running shoes: high end Asics Kayano with DuoMax pronation support. By examining the wear patterns (the places on your shoes worn smooth by repetitive use) of your old shoes, you may get some clues about particular models that will fit you best. From looking at the bottom of your shoe you will be able to figure out your pronation. Pronation in itself is not a bad thing because it helps your feet and legs absorb shock. However, excessive pronation (rolling in too much) can cause increased injury risks. That's called overpronation, and the answer to it is finding a shoe with good motion-control properties. The other more rare state is underpronation, a runner that lands like a ton of bricks and underpronates definitely requires a shoe with plenty of cushioning to absorb the shock.

Most brands today offer a wide range of shoe types, it all depends on the style of shoe and most brands now make several styles. Words like "motion control" or "duomax" can tell you a lot about a shoe and shouldn't be over looked. My new running shoes: high end Asics Nimbus 10 with neutral to light pronation.

My personal choice when it comes to running shoes is Asics. They have more than 50 years of experience in developing running shoes for a wide types of styles and as a sales rep I got very few complaints compared to other well known brands out there. Demanding runners seem to pick this brand as well - calling it the Rolls Royce of running shoes. In the past I've used high end Asics like Asics Cumulus, Asics Kayano and now Asics Nimbus and I still highly recommend them. Remember that running shoes are your most important running gear and should be replaced every year or so to effectively absorb the shocks and prevent injuries.

Dressing up for the right weather conditions: When you go out for your runs, be careful not to overdress. Once you warm up, your extra body heat will make you feel about a couple of degrees warmer. Avoid wearing cotton when running because it holds your sweat and doesn't dry quickly. Synthetic fabrics (such as CoolMax or Sweatpants) wick moisture away from your skin so cooling evaporation can occur. Although the technical fabric running clothes may cost a little more, you'll appreciate the comfort -- especially during long runs. On cold days, you'll lose a reported 40% of your heat from your head, so it's important to keep it covered. You also want to protect your skin from the cold and wind, and also prevent rain to wet your clothes with a wind and waterproof outer layer.