Running isn’t easy, but it shouldn’t be downright painful. If foot or leg pain is holding you back from conquering your favorite running path, the problem might lie with your shoes. Running shoes should be comfortable and supportive even on a long, hard run. You should always take the time to measure your feet and find a pair that suits you perfectly. How do you know if you have the right fit? As you test your new running shoes, keep an eye out for these signs your running shoes don’t fit properly.

You Can’t Wiggle Your Toes

When you try on a new pair of running shoes, the first thing you should do is try to wiggle your toes. The front of the shoes should have enough room for your toes to move around comfortably.

In fact, there should be about a thumbs’ width of space between the front of your toes and the front of the shoe. Your feet swell as you run and exercise. The extra space in the front of the shoe acts as a buffer to keep your toes comfortable through a long run.

You Have To Loosen the Laces To Take Your Shoe Off

If your shoe fits right, you’ll be able to take it off by simply untying the laces and sliding your foot out. If you have to spend time completely loosening the laces, the shoe is too small. Go a size up for a shoe that fits more comfortably. While you want shoes that are snug and secure, a pair that’s too small can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort as you run.

Pain in Your Arches

Have you ever felt your arches ache after a long run? This is one of the surest signs your running shoes don’t fit properly. The problem might be an improperly aligned flex point, which means the shoe doesn’t bend with the natural arch of your foot. You can use a Brannock Device to measure the flex point of your foot, then compare it to the flex point of the shoe by bending the sole and seeing if it flexes along the same line as your foot.

Finding the perfect pair of shoes doesn’t have to be a pain. Find only the highest quality brands when you shop women’s running shoes at Mountain High Outfitters. Expert designs and durable materials make each shoe in our collection a reliable choice mile after mile.