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The Best Footwear to Smash a Marathon

New Jersey offers many exciting marathon opportunities for running enthusiasts. Today we’re going to discuss several important factors to consider when choosing footwear.

1. Don’t Run a Marathon in a Pair of New Shoes

Like all good marathon runners will tell you, steady wins the race. Turning up on marathon day wearing a pair of brand-spankin’ new sneakers is probably not the best idea, and you’re just asking for trouble. New shoes can rub against your feet and cause blisters, and this will seriously slow you down once you pass the first few miles.

Instead, “break in” your new footwear a good few weeks before the big day. Try several pairs of shoes and see which ones feel the best. Sure, you want footwear for performance, but you should never compromise on comfort.

2. Invest in a Good Pair of Running Socks

Running socks can insulate your feet in cold conditions —marathon runners in the northeastern U.S. can experience temperamental weather, even in the summer months — and absorb sweat in warmer weather. Good socks can also prevent your feet from chafing and blistering as you progress around the marathon track.

3. Buy Two Pairs of the Same Shoe

You will likely spend weeks and weeks training for your marathon, so it’s a good idea to purchase another pair of your favorite shoes and save these for the big day. This way, you will have already familiarized yourself with your type of footwear but will have a box-fresh pair that will make marathon running so much more enjoyable.

4. Look for Shoes With Good Heel Conditioning

Shoes with a midsole made from high-quality material will minimize the impact of a heel strike — or “stomping” — which occurs when running long distances.

“Besides using a variety of cushioning material, some shoes feature a softer “’crash pad’ area on the outer edge of the foot or a rounded outer heel to smooth the landing,” says Runner’s World.

5. Don’t Assume Your Size

When it comes to marathon shoes, size matters. You might think you’re a size 11, but you could be a 10, 10.5, 11.5 or 12 depending on the type and manufacturer of the shoe. Make sure you get your feet measured properly and then go from there. Choosing the wrong-sized shoe can be disastrous, and it could even cost you precious running time on marathon day.

6. Invest in Gait Analysis

Gait, what? Gait analysis. It’s the study of how your body moves, which will influence the type of footwear you will wear for your marathon. Some footwear stores offer basic gait analysis for free, and it can be a great way to find the perfect shoes.

Alternatively, you can stop by our podiatry office in Clifton, NJ for a more in-depth advanced gait analysis performed using a 3D scanner. We are able to capture your feet in over 150 images per second – over 20 times faster than the human eye. This revolutionary technology allows Dr. Petkov to pinpoint any abnormalities in the way you walk or run.

7. Visit a Podiatrist

A podiatrist is a healthcare professional who is trained treat conditions associated with your feet and lower limbs such as Athlete’s Foot, stress fractures or heel pain. Visiting a foot doctor before your race can help alleviate any symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. You will be able to learn more about your feet — find out if you have wide or flat feet, for example — so you can choose the right footwear.

The road to marathon day can be a long one, but follow the tips above and find the perfect footwear that will match your style, budget, and performance goals.

Looking for a top Clifton podiatrist who can help you win the race? Call or text our podiatry center in Clifton, New Jersey at 973-315-5555 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Petkov today.