FitSugar

Fit Tip: Stock Up on Your Fave Sneaks

FitSugar — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 10:00:26 -0700

Finding the perfect exercise shoe is a tough challenge. Even though there are a couple brands I've had luck with, I always end up spending at least an hour trying on every type of sneaker made by every brand in the store, just to make sure I've found the best fit. Sometimes I even end up having to go to more than one store! Who has time for that every time you have to buy new sneaks, which for me is about every three months?

So I've started stocking up on a pair I really love. I'll buy sneakers I think are perfect, try it out for a couple of weeks, and if my feet are still happy, I go back to the store and buy one or two more pairs of the exact same sneaker. That way a new pair I know I already love is waiting for me when it's time to ditch my old pair. If you don't like buying the same pair because they look the same, companies usually make the same sneaker in a couple different colors. If you can't find them at the store, order them online, which can save you dough and a trip to the store. You can also create a sale alert notice for the shoes on ShopStyle. You might have to wait a while, but you'll save some dough too.

Fit Tip: Buy New Sneaks in the Afternoon

FitSugar — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 14:30:00 -0700

So you've been running a bunch and just realized you've clocked almost 350 miles. It's about time to pick up a new pair of sneaks. When you go shopping, it's important to think about the state of your feet. They'll swell slightly as you go about your day, from standing and moving, so avoid buying new sneakers in the early morning when your feet are their smallest. Instead, buy your new kicks in the afternoon, when your feet have had a chance to fill out. That way you'll ensure the best fit, and won't have to worry about your new shoes feeling tight.

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Where to Buy Sneakers Online: RoadRunner Sports

FitSugar — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 11:00:00 -0700

I have given you all many tips on how and why to buy good running shoes. Take care of your feet and they will take care of you. It seem like the good deals are often online, but when it comes to sneakers finding the right fit through the Internet can seem risky, but not with RoadRunner Sports.

They guarantee a perfect fit! Seriously. Here's how they explain their policy:

And now, with our unrivaled PERFECT FIT GUARANTEE, you can hit the road in your new running shoes. If they're not just right for you, simply exchange them within 60 days, no questions asked.

How cool is that?

They also have Fit Experts available for consultation via email or telephone (which seems charmingly "old school"). You can even sort the shoes by foot type and most shoe descriptions are accompanied by helpful reviews and rankings.

RoadRunner Sports sells other gear too: hydration systems, clothing, watches, scales, and heart rate monitors. If you prefer to shop at a retail store they have "brick and mortar" operations, mostly out west, so check their site for store locations.

Things to Think About When Buying Athletic Shoes

FitSugar — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 14:30:00 -0700

So you need to buy a new pair of sneakers for running, or maybe for soccer. Regardless of what activity you need the shoes for, here are some things to think about for choosing the best pair of sneakers:

Wear the appropriate shoes for the appropriate activity. If you're going to be running, it's not in your best interests to wear tennis sneakers. Even if the tennis shoe is cuter.
Get your foot measured. Our shoe sizes change over time, so make sure to have your foot measured from time to time.
Due to normal swelling in your feet throughout the day, shop for your shoes in the afternoon.
Leave the idea that you need to break a shoe in at home. If your athletic shoe does not feel comfortable in the store, don't buy it.
Shop around. There are lots of shoes to choose from and the first one you try may not always be the best even if it feels OK.
Take your own socks, the ones that you would wear with those shoes on your own.
Unfortunately, when it comes to athletic shoes you pay for what you get. So don't be afraid to pay a little extra for a nice pair of shoes.

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Running Tip: If You Love Your Sneakers, Buy a Second Pair

FitSugar — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:00:00 -0700

Finding the perfect pair of sneakers is no easy task. If you're like me, you have to try on a bazillion running shoes to find the pair that fits you like Cinderella's glass slipper.

So when you unearth those unbelievably made-for-you sneaks, just buy a second pair. That way you can run in the first pair, and when it's time to give them a rest, you'll have another perfect pair waiting for you. This is especially helpful if you're training for a big race. If you feel weird about having two of the exact same looking pairs, then buy the sneakers you love in two different colors, like these Nike Air Zoom Vomero+2 shoes. They'll seem new and different to your eyes, but your feet won't notice the difference.

Gear Review: Kuru Shoes

FitSugar — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:30:00 -0700

It's important to be kind to your feet. If you don't treat them right then you can end up with foot, knee, or back pain. One way you can take care of your tootsies is with supportive footwear. You buy sturdy and cushioned sneakers for running, so why not treat your feet to the same love when you're not at the gym? I've just discovered Kuru shoes, the only footwear with ergonomic midsoles. Their philosophy is that your foot isn't flat, so why should your shoe be? The inside is curved, mirroring the shape of your heel, and when you walk, the supportive feeling is like nothing I've ever experienced.

To hear more about these shoes, find out how much a pair costs, and see some more pics read more.

My husband and I both have a pair of the Chicanes ($90), and instantly noticed the difference the first moment we slipped them on. These shoes are lightweight, water resistant, and have a rugged sole, so they were perfect for hiking and walking the hills around the city (that's why they're a little dirty in the photos). The best way to describe how they feel is comfortable yet supportive, and it was amazing that both our feet felt great after walking the trails for a couple hours. These shoes look less sporty than other trail shoes I've had, so that's also a plus. They come in many styles to fit your taste, and the price is pretty reasonable for a shoe that feels molded to your foot. If you have issues with foot pain or finding the right shoe, definitely check out Kuru shoes.

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Looking for more advice on fitness gear? Then check out the Good Gear/Bad Gear group.

What's Most Important When Buying New Sneaks?

FitSugar — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 03:47:38 -0700

I recently went shopping for new sneakers. Fit was definitely my number one priority when I picked up a pair of these New Balance 769. While running on the treadmill in the store, these sneaks offered stability and cushioning and were lightweight - exactly what I was looking for.

I know you probably take a few things into consideration when buying new sneaks, but what's the most important?

Fit Tip: Don't Wait to Buy New Sneaks

FitSugar — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 10:30:44 -0700

Finding the perfect pair of sneakers can be just as hard as finding the perfect bathing suit. It can take visits to several stores to try on dozens of different styles until you find the correct fit.

So don't wait to buy new sneakers until your current pair begins falling apart, or you start to feel pain in your knees, shins, or lower back. Buy a new pair before it's time to retire the old ones, and not only will you avoid the stress of rushing to find the perfect pair, but you'll also have time to gradually break them in by alternating between wearing your old and new pair.

Fittingly Green: Brooks Making Eco-Friendly Sneaks

FitSugar — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:22:34 -0700

If you choose to run outside on a trail or sidewalk instead of using an electricity-driven treadmill, you're already doing your part to help the environment. You can do more though, with the help of Brooks. The brand has developed a new racing sneaker called the Green Silence.

This red and yellow shoe may channel Ronald McDonald, but it is actually totally green. The heel cups are made with recycled CDs, and the laces, lining, and stitching are made with discarded plastic water bottles. The outer soles are made from recycled rubber, and the midsole is 100 percent biodegradable. All the soy-based dyes used are non-toxic, and the adhesives are water-based. The collar around the opening of the sneaker is stuffed with foam from old couches. The packaging is also made from 100 percent post-consumer materials. These lightweight sneaks are scheduled to hit stores in February 2010, and will retail for $100, because being green doesn't come cheap.

Tell me, would you buy these eco-friendly sneakers from Brooks?

To see more pics click the images below.

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You Asked: Are Blisters Unavoidable For Running Newbies?

FitSugar — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 09:00:00 -0700

Dear Fit,
I just started running and was all fired up to get into it this Summer, but painful blisters have quickly extinguished my excitement. A close friend and runner said it comes with the territory since I'm new to running. Are blisters something I have to put up with or is there something I can do to prevent them?
- Blister Sister

First of all, I think it is great that you have been bitten by the running bug. It's the perfect way to work your heart and tone your legs and booty. It stinks that blisters have dampened your enthusiasm, and no, just because you're new to running, that doesn't mean you have to put up with sore tootsies. To learn how to prevent blisters when running, read more.

Many factors can affect your feet and cause painful blisters, such as:

New sneakers: It can take several weeks to break in a new pair of kicks, so start off slow. Wear your sneaks to do errands or around the house when you're not running. This will speed up the time it takes for your shoes to mold to your feet. Do short runs at first and gradually increase the duration of your workouts as your sneakers feel more comfortable.
Poorly fitting sneaks: If your sneakers are too big, they'll shift as you run and rub against your skin, which will lead to blisters. Your sneakers should fit snugly, not too loose and not too tight. There should be about a half inch between your longest toe and the tip of your shoe.
Wrong shoes for the activity: If you know you'll be running on the sidewalk in your neighborhood, don't buy a pair of trail runners.
Your socks: When feet get sweaty, the moisture is sure to cause blisters. So wear a pair of wicking socks when you run to draw moisture away from your skin. I also find thicker socks make my feet more blister-prone, so choose a thin pair instead.
Wet feet: Avoid running in puddles, and if you like to pour water over your head on a hot day, try leaning over so it doesn't drip into your shoes. If your feet are naturally sweaty, try sprinkling talcum or foot powder on your bare feet before putting on your wicking socks, or spray antiperspirant on your bare feet (I have runner friends who swear by this).
Doing too much, too soon: Running long distances when you first start running can be hard on your feet. So stick with runs that are 30 minutes or less. Gradually increase the length of your workouts so your feet can get used to the new demands you're putting on them.
Sensitive feet:If you find that you've tried all this and a certain part of your foot continues to get blisters, protect that area by taping it with sports tape or apply moleskin padding.

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