Running Shoe Review: Why I Wear Asics Gels

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By Don Simkovich

Why Asics Gel Works for Me

For the past four years, I’ve been running with the Asics Gel shoes exclusively after a consultation at my local running store.

I hate to admit that I run with extra pounds, but that’s the truth. Ever since my junior year in high school, I’ve had occasional pain in my left knee including a concern about the meniscus. The Asics Gel model I use has provided the cushioning and support my knee has needed. As long as I don’t let my shoes wear down too badly, I can put in up to several miles at a time and not notice discomfort.

While I use the Asics Gel, it’s important to choose a running shoe that provides the cushioning, stability, and strength needed to carry a runner on their training regimen. First check how you walk or run to determine the type of shoe for the best fit.

Check Your Arch by Stepping in Water

Step in a pan of shallow water and then on paper to see your type of arch.
Step in a pan of shallow water and then on paper to see your type of arch.

Choosing a Running Shoe

This is the first step. Pun intended!

Visit the web site of any brand running shoe to find a guide for how you land when walking or running. According to the New Balance web site, only 4 in 10 adults wear properly fitting shoes.

Determine if your foot has a flat arch, normal arch or high arch.

On both the Asics site and the New Balance site, the guide recommends pouring a small amount of water into a pan. Then wet the sole of your foot and then step onto a piece of paper. The mark made can be compared to the marks on the online diagram to determine the type of arch. There is also a pronation graph accompanying each shoe. In simple terms, pronation is a rolling of the foot either mid-way or at the rear of the foot.

Visit a Running Store

Visit a store where the sales team are runners. This may not be possible in many towns. Or else ask at the local store if the person helping you is also a runner. If so, they can advise you on the best type of shoe and fit.

Serious runners should not shop based on price alone. Your running shoes are performing a service in cradling your foot and moving with your natural gait.

For working in the yard, I do recommend buying a much less expensive pair of shoes to keep your running shoes for the purpose of – hitting the road, cushioning your stride and providing maximum protection and help on your runs.

Comments

Gypsy Willow profile image

Gypsy Willow Level 5 Commenter 2 years ago

These are my favorite shoes too. They are very comfortable for hiking in the mountains on uneven ground.

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