Buzz
If you have a treadmill at home or live in a place where you can run freely without too many distractions, you might have considered adding running to your exercise routine during the pandemic. For some, this might mean dusting off their old pair of running shoes, while for others, it could be the first time purchasing a pair. Regardless of your experience level, ensuring a good fit for your shoes is crucial—but how can you get the perfect fit without going to a store?
Choosing the Perfect Shoe Is More of an Art Than a Science
As many experienced runners will tell you, finding the ideal running shoe is more about artistry than it is about hard science. A poorly fitting shoe can lead to various issues. There’s plenty of technical terminology involved—discussions about your gait and arch type—but studies suggest that these details don’t have as significant an impact on your shoe choice as we often think.
The most important factor in choosing a running shoe is whether you can run comfortably in it, something that can only be determined after actually running in the shoes.
For years, I was a loyal fan of Saucony running shoes, even though they were technically the wrong fit for my gait and arch type. Yet, they were the shoes that allowed me to run comfortably. That was until Saucony changed the design of their shoes, and they no longer suited me, pushing me to explore other brands and models.
This isn’t uncommon: many shoe brands frequently alter their models, sometimes subtly, sometimes dramatically. So, even if you find a shoe that works for you, it might not remain the same fit a few years later.
Personally, I judge a shoe's suitability based on how well the bridges and balls of my feet feel supported during a run. If these areas feel too loose, it's likely that I’ll experience pain in the wrong places after a long run. For others, the right shoe depends on their individual biomechanics, which is difficult to predict.
Considering the many factors at play, is it possible to find the right running shoe while still respecting social distancing guidelines?
Schedule a virtual fitting appointment
Running stores are beginning to offer virtual appointments, which is a great way to support local businesses. Many of these appointments take place via Zoom, giving you a chance to discuss your shoe needs face-to-face. The experts you meet may have knowledge about when a brand updates its design or may be able to recommend a shoe based on your specific needs, such as flat feet or high arches. Fleet Feet, with locations across the country, has a website outlining what to expect during a virtual fitting, which includes an assessment of your walk and a conversation about shoes that have worked for you in the past.
If you're unsure about your shoe size, Hoka One One offers guidance on measuring your feet. They suggest taking a long walk beforehand, as your feet expand after walking, and you'll want to measure them when they're in their swollen state. They also provide tips for determining the width of your feet, which can be particularly helpful if your feet are wider or narrower than average and you're not sure which size would work best for you.
Have an old pair of running shoes handy, if possible
If you have a pair of running shoes that have worked well in the past, it's a good idea to keep them nearby. Since finding the perfect shoe can be difficult, knowing what has worked for you before can provide valuable insight into what might work now. If the shoe has been redesigned, you can at least use it as a reference point to find a comparable model.
If it’s been some time since you last ran—or if you’re a total beginner—now’s the perfect moment to ask about shoes that provide the best overall fit, and to mention if you have wider or narrower feet. It’s also helpful to share your specific fitness goals, as they can influence which shoes are most suitable for you.
Inquire about their exchange policy
In the days before physical distancing, you could try on running shoes in-store and even go for a brief run to assess their comfort before making a purchase.
Now, due to physical distancing measures, you won’t be able to try on shoes until after you’ve bought them. No matter how many questions you ask or how well you guess, you won’t know if the shoes fit properly until you try them on. Therefore, be sure to ask about the store’s exchange policy before making your purchase.
If you buy a pair of shoes and find the fit is completely wrong once you try them on, what are your options? Can you exchange them for another pair? If so, what’s the time frame for exchanges? Will you be responsible for return shipping? This is an excellent reason to shop locally, as exchanges will typically be easier—just make sure to ask about contactless delivery and exchange options.
Once you have your shoes, it’s time to start running—whether on a treadmill, in your own backyard, or in a place where you can maintain a safe distance from others. Just remember: when in doubt, always choose the safer option.
