Whether you are a seasoned pro or looking to start a couch to 5k – there’s only one bit of kit that can make the difference to your running.
That is, of course, what you put on your feet. It can feel like there’s almost too much choice out there when it comes to running shoes – and it’s easy to become overwhelmed.
There is a shoe available for every foot – and every kind of run. Picking the right pair will have you running on air.
Everybody is different and every body is different and the right pair of running shoes can make you feel more like Mo Farrah, no matter what running level you are at.
Ask the running shoe experts
Chivers Sports is the place to turn to for all your running shoe needs.
The family-run firm in Carlisle was founded in 1945 by Colin Chivers and was taken over this year by city businessman Paul Wasilkowski.
Chivers already has a reputation for expert knowledge and first-class customer service, Paul plans to build on the firm’s legacy and be at the forefront of Cumbria’s growing running and fitness scene.
The staff have a combined 100 years-plus of experience between them and can advise how to get the best out of your running.
The store stocks four major brands – with more in the pipeline:
- Brooks
- Hoka
- On Cloud
- Saucony
It is, in fact, the only stockist in Cumbria for the popular On Cloud brand.
Each brand has myriad styles and designs – so your perfect running shoe exists.
Here is their guide to choosing the right running shoe for you.
What surface are you running on?
If you are training on pavements, then road shoes are your perfect fit.
Lightweight race shoes are for runners who want a responsive shoe. They are perfect for racing and are light and flexible.
Prefer muddy routes and the countryside? Then you should be looking at trail shoes, which offer more support and better grip.
The brands offered by Chivers also have a walking range, for hikers looking for something lighter than a traditional walking boot.
What distance are you running?
Consider if you are looking for running shoes for a regular 5k parkrun or training for a marathon. You may need a slightly different style depending on what you are planning to run or train for – more cushioned for a longer distance or more flexible for shorter runs.
The Chivers team are on hand to make sure you choose the right style for the distance you plan to run.
Get a gait analysis appointment
Paul and his team cannot stress how important gait analysis is.
Thanks to the team’s decades of experience, they can analyse your running style and how much you pronate – the extent to which your foot naturally rolls inwards when you run and where your foot strikes the ground when you are running.
This is essential to finding that right fit for you – without an analysis, you could be cramming your most precious running equipment into the wrong shoe.
What is gait analysis?
The gait analysis is an assessment of how your body moves either by walking or running.
Chivers’ team guides you through the process.
If you have your current running shoes to hand this always helps as the team can tell a lot from the soles of the shoe, so bring them along.
Stuart Goodman, of Chivers, said: “Firstly we want to see you walk in your socks – how’s your balance? What part of your foot strikes the floor first? Heel or toe?
“We like to you jog in the store for your body position, knees and ankle movement and look of for any underlying injury or condition.
“Are you wearing the right sized shoe for running?
“We’ll provide you with a selection of shoes which we think best fit your running style – from there you can make your own choice based on brand, colour and most importantly, budget.”
To avoid disappointment appointments can be made for Saturdays, otherwise walk-ins are always welcome for gait analysis.
Running socks
Socks can make a big difference to your running. Always wear the socks you intend to use with your running shoes when you go for your gait analysis.
You will want technical fabrics when choosing socks, as these help to wick the sweat away from your feet and avoid chafing.
Running socks are often also designed without seams and with extra padding to prevent blisters.
Chivers also stocks a range of running socks, including Hilly, Stance and More Mile, which can make your run more comfortable.
Running clothes and accessories
And don’t forget the difference the right running clothes can make.
You’ll feel most comfortable in lightweight, sweat-wicking clothing in summer. For most people, that means shorts and T-shirts or vests – but you may like to wear longer tights on your run if that makes you feel more comfortable. If you do choose long tights over shorts, opt for a very lightweight pair that feel like a second skin.
Avoid cotton and heavy fabrics. Sweat-wicking material is best as it’ll keep you dry and comfortable. It’ll help you stay warmer when it’s cold outside and cooler when it’s warm out.
Chivers has a range of clothing available for every type of run, plus every accessory a runner may need – like Vaga hats and Goodr sunglasses.
Please call in to view our new running shoe wall and get a gait analysis at Chivers
