I’m actually proud of the fact that I’m in need of new shoes.

Not just any shoe. Not the sparkly. Not the boot. Not the flop.

The shoe of a running variety.

I bought new shoes back in December. I’m 90% sure they weren’t the right fit for me. I’m picky about shoes. I don’t like mine being super loose, but I also don’t like them super tight. I’m like Goldilocks in that fashion. I like my Running Shoes jjjuuussttt right.

So I’m on the hunt for new running shoes.

What to consider?

The brand for one. Which ones last longer? Which ones can endure inside AND outside activities. Which are easily cleaned?

The toightness. (Lol, hubby. lol) Are they super snug on my feet? Squeeze them? Not tight? Do they offer support?

Oh the support!

I’m flat footed so I need some arch support. Otherwise my dogs are barking.

What’s a gal to do to find some decent shoes?

You have to think about the length. Something I’ve noticed as I’ve been losing weight is that my shoe size is changing. They’re not getting shorter, just skinnier. I didn’t even know you could lose weight in your feet. So the length has nothing to do with that, but it’s something to look at. Remember that the more you’re on your feet, running or stairs, the more your feet are going to sweat and swell. Remember when you were a kid? Mom had you stand up with those new shoes on and pushed on the toes and told you to wiggle your toes? Yup, wiggle your piggies. Do they wiggle without rubbing the ends? That’s a good length. Cramped toes are not fun. That can lead to a lot of other foot issues which could lead to injury.

As much of a aesthetics species as we are, don’t always go based on how the shoe looks. Get it for how it’s going to help your feet. Keep them secure and not hurting.

Another big one, that even I’m guilty of, is assuming your shoe size. Have your feet measured. When you go into the store have an associate measure you for a properly fitted shoe. Don’t think that because you fit into a size 10 flip flop that a size 10 sneaker is going to fit. Or if you are losing weight and wore a wide shoe 6 months ago that the wide is still going to be what you need now. Get your feet fitted!

Remember that injuries happen. Most are preventable. Getting the right shoes help prevent things such as blisters, sore feet because of bad shoes (no matter what your feet are going to be sore if you’re working out), or even worse injuries.

On that note….I want some blue running shoes. I love the color blue.