Update: This sneaker buying guide has been updated as part of our2021 SELF Certified Sneaker Awards.
you might see all of this years award winnershere.
Your foot is just like your fingerprint; its unique to you.
Images courtesy of Nike, Asics, Ryka, Brooks, and Adidas/Lisa Moses
Thats one reason we made this guide to buying sneakers.
So while shoe shopping is personal and your favorites may be different from someone elses (including ours!
), our SELF Certified Sneaker Awards are an excellent place to find a shoe that works for you.
you’ve got the option to find all our 2021 Sneaker Award winnershere.
Read on for more about what our experts say to look for when buying a shoe.
A well-fitting shoe should feel secure around your heel, without slippage.
For cycling shoes, your shoes should fit snugly but with adequate toe space.
You should not feel any pressure points when performing your activity.
When evaluating shoes, we took all of this into consideration.
Is the shoe cushioned or more firm (responsive)?
Does the arch of the shoe feel supportive or obtrusive?
Do you feel like youre fighting the shoe to find a comfortable rhythm?
Buying the right shoes for you will be worth every penny.
Did you develop any blisters, hot spots, or bruised toes during or after running?
Did you experience any other pains, like shin splints or knee pain?
We take all of this into consideration when evaluating sneakers.
Its really hard to know whats going to work for you with no frame of reference, he says.
Even one shoe can give you a frame of reference on where to move from there.
If youve started dealing with an injury, look at the age of your shoe, Burns says.
Shoes have a finite life, and they wear out unfortunately quite quickly.
Trail shoes are wildly different.
Theres an enormous spectrum of them, and it varies enormously today, Burns explains.
The most important thing when choosing one is understanding the types of trails youll be running on.
Are the trails in your neighborhood sandy and rocky?
What level of ankle support does it provide?
The grip a hiking shoe offers is important, especially when youre climbing up a gravelly trail.
When evaluating hiking shoes, we noted whether the sole provides adequate traction and gripping ability.
When evaluating shoes for weight lifting, note the following: Is the shoe thick-soled or thin?
Does it have a minimal heel?
When evaluating weight-lifting shoes, note the following: Is the shoe comfortable?
Does it feel heavy or light?
Do you feel in touch with the ground when you perform weight lifting or other exercise moves?
Neutral shoes are those that dont have those motion-control features.
See all our 2021 winnershere.
