When people go shopping for workout clothes, they mainly focus on the superficial aspects, such as color, brand, fit and style. However, these articles of clothing aren’t just designed to be fashionable - they’re made specifically for the purpose of working out. In the case of shoes, this couldn’t be truer. To prevent injury and other issues it is important that individuals know how to properly purchase the right kind of shoes for their workout.

Believe it or not, wearing the wrong shoes while exercising increases a person’s chances of developing a workout-related injury, which is the last thing you’ll want to deal with. Because of this, it is vital that you shop the right way for the shoes you’ll need for your active lifestyle. The first step is to measure your foot properly. Although most adults know their shoe size, the truth is that over time our feet change in size and shape. According to doctors, if you haven’t had your feet measured in two years, make sure to do it again - even if it ends up being the same size. However, if you find that your shoe size has changed slightly, be sure to take this new information into consideration when purchasing your workout shoes. You never want the shoes to fit too snug, either. Give yourself at least a half inch of “wiggle room” in the front and back, which is beneficial when performing certain exercises or physical activities.

Additionally, it is important to know that throughout the day (mostly in the afternoon) the feet tend to swell naturally so take that into account when trying on your shoes at the store. If you know you plan on exercising in the afternoons, then shop for your shoes during that same time of day so that you’ll know the shoes you are trying on will fit better, compared to trying them on at the store earlier in the day or later on in the evening. Don’t forget to bring your own socks as well, which will give you the most realistic feeling when trying on each pair.

Make sure the workout shoes you buy are designed for the specific activity you plan on performing. For example, do not wear basketball shoes for running errands around town or sport your running shoes while out on a hike. Decide which exercises or workouts you’re going to commit yourself to and purchase the right shoe that is specially designed for that activity. Plan on multitasking in your workout? Then opt for a cross-trainer shoe, which will allow you flexibility for all sorts of physical activities.

Don’t be afraid to ask the salesperson questions, either. Their expertise in the products they carry will be very helpful when it comes to deciding which one to purchase. However, don’t feel the need to buy the most expensive or the cheapest shoes they have. Price should only be one of the determining factors, not the main one. Go for a shoe that is functional, will provide the support your feet need and made of good quality so that it will last. Avoid wearing your workout shoes until they completely fall apart, though. The moment you start feeling less support or find yourself suffering from minor aches and pains in your feet, this is more than likely a sign that it’s time to replace your exercise shoes with new ones.

Each pair of shoes you try on in the store should be kept on for at least 10 minutes. Walk around the store and test them by flexing your feet a few different ways.

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