If you’re facing difficulties wearing your running shoes on a daily basis, maybe you’re wearing the wrong pair of shoes. So, what are the symptoms of wearing wrong running shoes? And what happens when you wear the wrong running shoes? Also, how can you pick the perfect pair of running shoes?
You’ll notice certain symptoms when wearing the wrong pair. Not only that you’ll develop various issues and even injury when your feet are in the unsupportive shoes. There are plenty of shoe brands and designs on the market. So, it is easy to pick a wrong pair that is not made for you! Additionally, wearing the wrong pair of running shoes can harm you in the long run.
So, let’s find out what are the symptoms you may find or develop when you wear unsupportive footwear.
What Are the Symptoms of Wearing the Wrong Running Shoe?
So, there are some certain signs which define that you’re wearing the wrong pair of running shoes when going for a jog. You may find the following difficulties-
You face difficulties running:
When you run, you cannot do it in a normal way. Your feet hurt with every step you take. The heels inflame and you can give the steps properly. The muscles under the feet become achey and it becomes difficult for you to run further. And even walking seems not easy. It is called plantar fasciitis. Generally it happens when the tissues that connect the heel bone and toes are swollen or inflamed. This is a sign that you are wearing the wrong running shoes.
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You get blisters and hard skin in your feet on a continuous basis:
It is common that new shoes might give you blisters. But if you get them on a continuous basis, it’s a concerning matter. Also, when the skin on your feet gets hardened, meaning when it develops callus, hard skin, it may be caused by the continuous friction from the shoes or the shoes are too tight for your feet. Whatever might be the reason, this is a sign of wrong shoes you’re putting on.
Old running shoes:
Running shoes loose cushing as they get older. Experts say, you need to change your running shoes every 4 to 6 months if you run 20 miles per week. That’s about 300 to 500 miles of running. The old shoes get creases and barely have any cushion to support you when you run. Also the soles get flattened. Old shoes are not suitable for running.
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Hammer Toes:
Hammer toe is the deformity of the middle, third, or fourth toe of your feet. However this could happen from the family history, it can also happen from wearing tight shoes and can cause you painful toes.
No room for the toes:
There’s a common misbelief among the runners that narrower shoes are better for running. When you put on your running shoes, it may seem like there is a little or no room inside it for your toes. It requires a little room for your toes to wobble when running. Otherwise, the toenail gets bruised. And sometimes you’ll notice blackening of the toenail. These symptoms are called jogger’s toe. This is a clear sign that you need to change your shoes.
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Clear change in your running or walking pattern:
If you notice a vivid change in your running or walking pattern after wearing the running shoes that is not normal and comfortable, it indicates the shoes are not compatible with your feet.
Neuroma:
Neuroma is caused by wearing the wrong pair of shoes. It affects the nerve tissue and you may feel numb if it is not treated soon.
The shoes don’t have ventilation:
When you wear the shoes for a long walk or take a long run, it becomes sweaty inside and lasts for a long time. It can happen for two reasons- either the shoes are too tight or they don’t have an airing system. It feels awkward to wear sweaty shoes. And running in them is even worse. You better change the shoes.
Bunions:
This is a bone deformation of the foretoe caused by a tight pair of shoes.
Developing Tendonitis:
Tendon is the connective tissue that connects the muscles and bones in the body. Tendonitis develop when the tendon gets inflamed or injured by any reason. It can cause joint pain and stiffness in the muscle. It also affects the movement of the affected tendon. You may develop tendonitis in your ankle, feet, and achilles tendon. This happens mostly when your running shoes let the feet slide to the inside when you take a step. This is a very common sign for you to change the shoes if you don’t want long term injuries.
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Burning foot:
It’s the feeling of burnt toes you may find when you wear shoes with narrower toe heads.
Attribute to Look for in a Pair of Running Shoes
So, you need to find the following characteristics in a good pair of running shoes:
Enhanced Cushion and Responsiveness:
A good pair of running shoes must have excellent cushioning to absorb the impact. The sole should have a responsive cushion to support the feet arch and overpronation.
Lightweight:
Heavy shoes are to be avoided. Runners are always looking for a light pair of running shoes that’ll support them for a long marathon.
Flexibility:
You should be able to take the steps flexibly without getting any sore feet or abnormal walking posture. If you have stiff feet, choose a pair that is flexible. And if you have flexible feet, pick a stiffer pair. But consider your comfortableness before going for a too tight or too flexible shoe. Both ways it may cause harm to your feet.
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Why Should You Wear the Right Pair of Shoes?
It is a very crucial question. And it is important to wear the perfect fit for your feet for the following reasons-
- To avoid pain and blisters in the feet.
- To avoid deformation of the feet.
- To retain the foot shape in its original form.
- To avoid developing serious injuries in the feet.
- To get rid of walking abnormalities.
How Do You Find the Right Pair of Shoe?
You’ll find a huge collection of running shoes on the market. New designs and models keep coming every season. However, neither all of them are made for every type of feet nor do they all fit the feet.
The right pair of shoes plays a significant role when it comes to a healthy running habit. Hence, finding a pair that suits your feet best is really crucial. So, what do you need to look for when finding the right pair of shoes for your feet? Here’s what we’ve found!
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- Try out the new pairs of shoes at the end of the day or after a workout. In these times the feet are in their full size, that is they are fully expanded. Therefore, it becomes easy for you to find a more accurate fit.
- Trying the shoes with sporty socks may do the trick as well.
- Always leave some space, about a thumb wide between the shoe tip and the index toe which is also known as the big toe. If the shoe seems tight for the fact, choose a shoe that leaves at least an inch of space between them.
- Running shoes vary depending on the types of runners. The runners who cover under 20 miles a week are considered low-mileage runners. Medium-mileage runners run between 20 to 40 miles per week. And the high-mileage runners cover more than 40 miles per week. Consider this factor when choosing the right type of running shoe. Depending on your fitness level you need to choose your shoes.
- If your feet tend to roll inwards while giving a step, which is called pronation, pick the stability running shoes. These shoes are designed to control overpronation and provide support to the feet.
- If you have any type of injury in the feet, consider the factor when choosing the shoes. Pick a pair that is comfortable, well-cushioned, supportive, and gives you balance while walking.
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- A new pair of shoes is not considered good for a race. New shoes generally develop blisters on your feet. If you want to wear the new pair to the race, you should reconsider your thought. You should have to wear the shoes at least a 100 miles before you can run in them for the race. Because by that time, your feet will get used to them and won’t face any critical issues.
- Check on the material of the shoe. If the material is durable and comfortable, and is compatible with your feet, you should pick it.
- Pick a pair with the perfect width. Your shoe must not slide from your feet or pinch them. It should comfortably wrap around your feet. You have the option to choose from a wider or narrower pair, whichever suits you best.
FAQ:
Can bad running shoes cause injury?
Wearing a pair of wrong running shoes can cause many health difficulties including- knee, hip, and back pain, achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, shin splints etc.
Can the wrong running shoes cause plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a pain on the bottom of the feet, around the heel, and ankle. A person can develop plantar fasciitis from excessive running, jump landing on hard floor, and wearing shoes with insufficient footgear.
How do shoes affect your feet, legs and joints?
Shoes have an enormous effect on your legs, feet, muscles, and joints. Hence wearing wrong shoes can affect your body badly. It can result into increased body pain, arthritis, joint pain, muscle stiffness, ankle and knee pain, deformation of the feet and many more.
Conclusion
Yes, it is difficult to pick the right shoe for running. Therefore, we’ve provided the guideline to check on the factors you need to consider before buying a pair. We hope this helps you in the future to find the right pair. Also, if you face problems wearing a certain pair, do not continue running in them. Rather, change them as soon as you can. Because it may lead you to develop permanent damage to your feet.
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