Running can be a very rewarding experience, and a healthy one. If you are new to the exercise, there are things you should do first, including advice from your doctor. The other thing you will need is a good pair of shoes. When you get to the store, you'll no doubt see hundreds of options. Don't worry, here are a few things you can do to pick the right one.

Picking the wrong shoes can make the difference between a wonderful enjoyable hobby, or a painful brutal experience. There are many factors to consider when picking a good running shoe, but a lot of them are common sense, and a lot of them apply to running shoes in general.

The first thing you want to do when you pick a pair of running shoes, is choose a pair from a brand that is reputable. It's rather easy to see who is the best...they are largely displayed in the stores. You are probably already aware of some of the brands. Unless you become an avid runner, you don't need to worry about the specialty brands. Some of the brands that are very well regarded out there are many Nike, Addidas, Asics, and New Balance. There are many other shoe brands out there but this is just a quick list of a few. In all of these brands that are widely available, you can find great prices to fit your budget. Many times, if you buy from an outlet or you buy last season's models you can get a great pair for half off but still work just as well as the brand-new pair from the new season.

Do not get hung up on shoe size. And no, it's not just the women who can get hung up on size! There are men in the same boat. The shoe size is merely a guide to start with. Depending on the maker of the shoes, there are numbers sizing maybe a little bit different. The most important part is the perfect fit, not that you can brag that you can squeeze your feet into a predetermined size. Start with your normal shoe size and try on the shoes. If the shoes are too tight, get a smaller size. If they're to big to get a smaller size. We it is in the shoes, the shoes should fit snugly but not feel like it's completely constricting of the circulation in your foot. While there should be no play in the shoes, or excessive movements, the shoes should feel like it is encased around your foot like a glove but not squeezing your foot. At the front of the shoes if there's a half an inch of extra row that's okay.

Pick up the shoes, it should feel light. The heavier the shoes the more tired you are going to get. Feel the heel of the shoe. It should be stiff to support your ankles. Also, a nice style is one that has more mesh than leather. The reason for this is that the mesh breathes more and can wick away alot of the persperation from your foot, helping to keep it cool.

If you are going to do only road or concrete style running, make sure you purchase a pair of shoes that is designed just for running. If you are going to do some hiking, treadmill running, or other types of workouts with the same shoe, consider a cross trainer or a trail runner. While style is important, the more critial thing is the fit of the shoe. If you can't find something that fits well in a particular style, get something else.

The lasting to consider is to make sure you actually take the sox are going to use when you try on shoes. The thickness of the sox can change how a shoe fits.