Buying by Brand or Fit

If you are a serious walker or runner, you are probably buying new shoes every four to five months—depending on your miles. I’d bet you have your favorite shoes and when you need new shoes, you tend to stay with that brand—even with the same shoe. The question is, “Is that wise?”
     Relying on a brand, on a particular shoe that has given you no problems, is a pretty good choice. If the shoes fit well and you are generally blister free, if they feel comfortable, and if they offer good support, stick with those shoes.
     If, however, you have been experiencing blisters, especially more than normal, and they don’t feel right in the toes, forefoot, arch or heels, you would be wise to look at another shoe.
     Generally, you are Ok trying another shoe from the same brand. But, if the shoe is not comfortable or doesn’t feel right, try another brand. Use one of the shoe buying guides from Runner’s World, Running Times, Trail Runner, Backpacker, Outside, Ultrarunning, etc. Read lots of reviews and then read a few more. Do Google searches.
     Then visit your local running, walking, or hiking store. Talk to the sales people. Avoid the chain stores in malls and the discount stores.
     Put on a few pairs and give them the walking or running test. Spend some time in them. When you buy a pair, wear the around the house for a while to be sure they are the right shoes for your feet. After all, you want your feet to be happy.