Like not being able to judge a good book by its cover, athletic shoes are very similar. While you want them to look good from the outside, it also pays to look at the finer points of shoes to make sure you get the best possible fit (literally!).
Shoe stores present a massive range of choice even before you walk through the doors. The trick is to try to cut out some of that noise and focus in on what you really need. To make sure you get the right pair for you, there are a few things to look for as you go about your search.
First Impressions Count – But Are Not the End Game
We all want to look good in shoes. But there is no point in having the flashiest pair of shoes on the market if they will make your feet or ankles hurt. After all, in that case, you feet will look cool, but you won’t!
So when you walk into AU Nike stores, keep your focus and remember you are buying not just for looks, but the substance of your shoes.
How Do You Use Your Shoes?
First, think about what you are going to do with your shoes. The general rule with a good pair of shoes is that you should forget you are wearing them because they are so comfortable.
Whether you are a runner, dancer, walker, hiker or generalist, your shoes need to be fit for purpose. Make sure you get a square peg for a square hole. In other words, even the very best running shoes will be useless for 20 mile hikes through tough conditions. Conversely, you would not want to run a 100 meter sprint in hiking boots!
Although these examples are exaggerated, think carefully about what you expect from your shoes and how they will support your feet.
If you are not sure, think about a typical week or month in your life, and the activities you do during that time. This will help you determine the most suitable shoes to fit your lifestyle. If you run more than you walk, you will want to go for shoes with the greatest support and cushioning. If you are more of a walker, you can opt for leather exterior and a firm sole.
Cool Down!
Most modern shoes are cool looking – especially those in Australian Nike stores. This means you cannot go too wrong with the outside, since most designs of shoe look stylish and fashionable.
Focus instead on the detail of the design – the sole, material, padding, and support. Contrary to popular opinion, running shoes do not necessarily make good ‘all round’ shoes for general use.
Since Nike shoes are specifically designed for running, they can actually be somewhat lacking in ankle support, depth of sole and fit around the ankle. This is especially important if you plan to wear your shoes for a job in which you spend long periods of time on your feet. The wrong type of shoes could give you blisters, abrasions or even chronic skeletal or muscular damage.
Making Your Choice
Ultimately, the choice is yours. This article has given you some pointers on what to look for – and what to avoid when considering your new shoes.
When thinking about your shoe material, leather is generally a good bet. Although it can cost a few extra dollars compared to cheaper alternatives, it is durable, suitable for most weather conditions, and does not risk making your feet too hot. You can also be assured of getting a good lifespan out of leather shoes, meaning you can potentially save money from replacing them too regularly.
One trick some shoe manufactures have adopted is to combine leather with other, less expensive materials. This creates the combination of value for money along with retaining some of the benefits of pure leather shoes. Nike stores in Au have all kinds of options, so you are sure to find something to suit you.
The main thing to remember when choosing new athletic shoes is to think as much about what is on the inside as on the outside. In all likelihood you will be able to find something stylish as well as practical anyway, so do not compromise on what you really need your shoes for.
