Running is more than just a mode of transportation or a hobby these days – it’s a science.
Gone are the days when serious runners put on Converse All-Stars and knee-high tube socks before heading out for a 5-mile jog.
Nope, it’s all about engineered, high-tech, custom-fit, super-lightweight, shock-absorbing, moisture-wicking materials nowadays.
Who knew running could be so technical?
Well, Sean Gray, for one.
He’s the store manager at Runner’s Alley in Concord, and he knows all about what makes a good running shoe – that’s kind of his job.
“The first thing I’d probably say is there’s not one shoe that’s perfect for everybody,” Gray said.
Dang it, there goes the one-sentence story we were looking for!
“We carry numerous shoes, numerous different companies and makes, because every individual runner is going to have different preferences and different needs for their running shoe, but the key thing that every runner’s going to need is the proper fit,” he said.
The team at Runner’s Alley is there to help make sure you find a shoe that’s the perfect fit for you. When you walk in looking for a running shoe, somebody at the store will conduct a gait analysis, in which they’ll determine whether you’re neutral, bow-legged or knock-kneed. Then, they’ll help find some shoes that best fit your needs. Usually there will be a few different makes and models that will work for you, so you can choose which you like best.
The main feature of a good running shoe is support, Gray said. Different shoes have supports in different places, depending on your gait. If you’re a neutral runner, the support will be basically up the middle. If you’re knock-kneed, you’ll need more support on the inside of your foot, and if you’re bow-legged you’ll need it on the outside.
Across the street and down a little at Joe King’s, similar advice was given by Dre Svensson – who knew plenty but conceded that the store’s running expert was away for the week.
She pointed out some new shoes the store carries, Hoka One One brand. These shoes have maximum support while still being very light. They’re apparently all the rage now.
Both stores carry everything you need to become an elite runner, so go check them out and ask questions!
April 27, 2016
There are lots of new running shoe brands in the market for instant, skora,salomon,scotts & altra. They would be new competitors for Asics and so on. Lets see what they got for us.