We've all done it. You walk into a sports store or scroll through an online sale, spot a flashy pair of running shoes and convince yourself that the most expensive option must be the best. A few clicks later, they arrive at your doorstep. A few runs later, your heels hurt, your knees complain, and the shoes end up sitting in the wardrobe.
The truth is, buying running shoes is not as simple as picking the latest launch or the pair everyone is talking about. Sports medicine research suggests that up to 75 per cent of runners experience an injury each year. Poor shoe choice is one of the reasons many people struggle with sore feet, blisters and joint pain.
The good news is that you do not need to be a professional athlete to choose the right pair. A few simple checks can help you avoid expensive mistakes and keep every run far more comfortable.
Mistake 1. Buying the shoe everyone else is wearing
The latest running shoe on social media is not always the right one for your feet. Many runners spend money on carbon-plated race shoes or heavily cushioned models designed for elite athletes. These shoes are built for speed and race day performance, not for relaxed evening jogs or weekend fitness runs.
