You have to put some thought and research into it if you are going to get the perfect running shoe. While you can definitely go into a store and pull from the “rack,” I recommend doing research. You need the right shoe for your body and your specific running style.

To find the right shoe, you need to:

• Understand “pronation”.  It’s the rolling of the foot from heel to toe. You want to make sure you are hitting the ground correctly with your foot when you’re running and testing a running shoe.

• Determine your foot type. Most running shoe stores have equipment to help you do this.

• Select a gait type. You have to figure out and understand how your body works.

• Go to the experts. Find a specialty running shoe store online or in your area.

• Make sure that the running shoe fits you properly. If you get the wrong shoe in the wrong size, you’ll never want to run again! And you will have wasted good money to boot.

What advice do you have for someone trying to find the perfect running shoe? Share your suggestions in the comments below.