How to Pick the Perfect Running Shoes for You

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The decision to be fit and exercise isn't an easy one, but once you do get to the phase where the decision has been made and you're literally gearing up to do the exercise you've chosen for you, it's pretty much smooth sailing from there.

For those who are looking to start walking, jogging, or running for exercise or to train for a marathon, the excitement builds up even more when you're out shopping for running shoes. Sure, the latest styles definitely are an eye-catcher, but there is so much more than just investing in a running shoe.

Invest - that's a main keyword. In fact, Runner's World recommends that you don't skimp out on your running pair because "whatever your new shoes cost, it is likely less than the money and time you’d spend seeing the doctor because you got hurt."

Speaking of injuries, you also have to take this into consideration when purchasing a running shoe. David McQuade of City Sports told the Huffington Post, "If you have a former injury, you do want to err on the side of caution. It's always better to go with a shoe that has a bit more structure and a bit more cushion to it, and slowly work your way into lighter, more flexible styles of shoes."

Mary Arnold of JackRabbit Sports added, "With a new runner -- somebody who's just done their first 5K or they're ramping up to do their first half-marathon -- sometimes we want to go with something that's a little more protective just because they're still figuring out their form and we want to minimize the risk of injury there."

Your safety is your utmost priority in any kind of exercise, that's why it's also imperative that you choose a shoe that feels and fits right as you exercise. According to McQuade, it's important to understand your body's gait and running style as well.

McQuade told the Huffington Post, "Running starts with your feet, so if you're already off alignment in your lower body, each step is another opportunity for you to get injured. Having the right kind of shoe that's properly aligning your foot really sets you off in the right direction for healthy training."

Additionally, you have to make sure that the shoe fits well because let's face it, every person has unique feet and not all shoes are made the same, either. Women's running shoe store See Jane Run owner Lori Shannon told Popsugar that our feet changes size throughout the day, so it's best to get fitted for new running shoes after your run.

"This is an art, not a science. If you don't like how they feel, then they are wrong for you," she said.

McQuade's opinion is similar, as he told the Huffington Post, "The best shoe is the shoe that is specifically tailored to your foot, support- and cushioning-wise. There's not one shoe that's the best shoe. There's the one shoe that's best for each person."