If you’ve finally convinced yourself to get your lazy arse off of the couch and go for a jog, nothing will send you back to said couch quicker than an injury. You need the proper footwear — the best walking shoes for men, for example, aren’t equipped with the proper functions to use as a running shoe. And you also need to warm-up properly. Another issue? Your foot health. From flat feet to gross blisters to hammer toe (::shudder::), here are some common feet issues and the best running shoes and accessories to use to combat what ails you …
Flat Feet
Flat feet can cause great pain. This condition occurs as the arches fall and provide less support for the body. Running with this ailment is difficult, so it is essential to purchase shoes with extra support, especially in the arches. Stability-control sneakers like the Ravenna 7 from Brooks ($50 and up @ Amazon.com) offer cushioning so that a runner can maintain a solid gait, and insoles like SmartSole Insoles ($20 @ Amazon.com) can help alleviate plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and joint pain.
Blisters
Blisters are sacs filled with fluid that result from rubbing inside a shoe. Shoes that do not fit properly often cause this problem. To prevent the issue, it is important to choose footwear that fits comfortably and has a wide width. For further prevention, padded insoles or OTC orthotics can be placed in the shoes to lower friction. You can also choose better socks, such as the Balega Blister Resist Running Socks ($14 @ Amazon.com).
Hammer Toe
A hammer toe occurs when one toe curls up from being squished in a tight shoe. This middle joint bends and rubs against the shoe, which causes discomfort. Without treatment, the toe will weaken. To ease the problem, a person should choose a sneaker with a wide toe box and wear a splint. Try this: Profoot Toe Straight Hammertoe Wrap ($7 @ Amazon.com).
