Women's Athletic Shoe Buying Guide

Buying a pair of women's athletic shoes can be overwhelming at first, given the range of choices that seems to increase with every season. The ideal athletic shoe is designed to serve the needs of the individual player in her particular sport. It should fit comfortably, providing the necessary support without bruising the toes or creating friction and blisters. There should also be adequate cushioning, if needed, for shock absorption. Other construction features are meant to optimize performance for different body types, player types, and terrains.

One of the most important steps in choosing a pair of athletic shoes is determining one's foot type. Differently shaped feet have different tendencies, and different risks when subjected to high-impact activity. In certain sports, shoe design can help prevent injury for particular foot types. The different foot types are discussed in the following sections.

Next, buyers should consider the needs of their sport, and look at available models in athletic shoe stores or online at manufacturers' websites. Reading customer and professional reviews of shoes may also be helpful.

Women's athletic shoes can be purchased in sporting goods stores, athletic shoe stores, through Internet merchants, or at online auctions like eBay. Informed shoppers will find it helpful to do some research before buying, so that they can find an athletic shoe that best meets their needs. The right athletic shoe is an investment in one's enjoyment and performance of any sport.

Foot Type
The first step when purchasing any athletic shoe is determining one's foot type. This will help in the selection process, since different foot types have different cushioning and support needs. There are three basic foot types: flat, high-arched, and neutral.

Determining Foot Type
Foot type can be determined in different ways. Specialty athletic shoe stores often offer foot-type analysis, but people can also assess their foot type themselves by analyzing the shape their bare foot makes in sand, or a wet footprint on a piece of paper.

If the footprint shows no arch whatsoever, but rather complete, continuous contact between the entire bottom of the foot and the ground, these are flat feet.

If there is a pronounced arch between the heel and ball of the foot, with a thin outer edge at mid-sole, these are high-arched feet. Some high-arched footprints even have a gap between the ball and the heel.

If the footprint shows a small arch, with an outer edge no wider than an inch, this is a neutral foot type.

In addition, examining the wear on the soles of one's current athletic shoes may give an idea of whether one overpronates or supinates. Wear on the outside of the heels usually indicates supination, while wear on the inside of the heel is a sign of overpronation.

General Guidelines and Tips
Although shoes for different athletics differ in terms of features, design, and performance, some general guidelines can be applied to all women's athletic shoes.

Fit
Feet can be asymmetrical, and most people have one foot that is larger than the other. Shoes should fit so that, while standing, there is a thumb's width between the shoe's end and the longest toe on the longer foot. Sizes should be bought for the larger foot.

Trying the Shoe On
Feet tend to swell during the day, so shopping at that time helps ensure a proper fit. Shoes should also be tried on while wearing the socks that will be worn with the shoes.

Shoes Should Match Foot Type and Athlete
Analyzing foot type before buying athletic shoes helps buyers find a shoe that helps them perform their best, featuring the right combination of support and flexibility. In addition, the shoe should match the athlete. Some shoes are intended for certain types of players or runners, according to factors like position, style, or playing conditions.

Buying Women's Running Shoes
Women's running shoes should match not only their foot type, but also the kind runner they are. The level of support and shock absorption are the main criteria when assessing what kind of running shoe is best.