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The Best Running Shoes for Kids
What To Look for
Look for cushioned insoles, arch support, ankle support, flexibility and breathability for children's running shoes. Runner
's World Magazine recommends the Adidas ClimaCool Cushion for children for a well cushioned and flexible shoe. Runner's World also recommends the Asics Gel-Nimbus 9 GS for older children.
Kid's running shoes should have the same support features as adult shoes. Children need arch support, heel cushion and shock absorbency in their running shoes. It is often difficult to find these features in shoes for children in toddler or baby sizes. Once a child is involved in track or running on a regular basis she needs a quality shoe to keep her feet healthy. Sturdy, ankle support shoes are also beneficial to prevent turned ankles and other foot and leg problems.
Common Pitfalls
The biggest pitfall that parents fall into when purchasing children's running shoes is to skimp on the price because children will soon outgrow the shoes. Quality children's shoes are as expensive as adult shoes, but if you purchase a cheap alternative, then you are risking the current and future health of your child. Try to purchase the highest quality of shoe that your budget can afford to provide the best comfort and stability for your child as she runs and participates in an active lifestyle. Always choose shoes that fit comfortably around the toe and snug around the ankle for maximum benefit.
Where to Buy
Quality children's shoes can be difficult to find. Low-budget retail stores may not stock quality brands for children. The best place to find children's running shoes is at shoe stores and athletic or sporting supply stores. Kid's Foot Locker is one quality retailer that offers many brands of children's running shoes. They offer foot sizing and can recommend the best brands for different sporting activities and race lengths. Dicks and Academy also offers many top brands for children's running shoes with competitive prices.
Cost
Expect to pay between $30 and $80 for a high-quality kid's running shoe. This cost varies with the brand and size of the shoe. Larger sizes cost more than smaller sizes in most cases. The Adidas ClimaCool Cushion shoe for children costs around $55. The Asics Gel-Nimbus 9 GS shoe costs about $60. Any shoes that cost less than $30 probably do not have the support that a child needs for running and intensive sports.
References:
Kids Running: Shoe Requirements
Runner's World: Kids Running Shoes
Good Housekeeping Best Kids School Sneakers
How to Choose The Right Track Running Shoes
by JBTodd
Break Studios Contributing Editor
Knowing how to choose the right track running shoes can make a difference in your performance on the track. If you are a sprinter, you want track shoes with spikes to help you grip the track during each stride. If you are a distance runner, you have the option of using shoes with spikes or more conventional running shoes that have rubber soles. Once you know the type of shoe you want, check with different stores to try and find the right track running shoes for the best price.
1. Go to a running store to choose the right track running shoes. Ask one of the store’s clerks to measure your foot. Try on a variety of different shoes that are designed for the distance you want to run. Ask the clerk if any specific brands are on sale, and see if the shoes are comfortable to wear on the track.
2. Make sure the right track running shoes support your feet. For example, if you have a high arch, you may need different track shoes than the ones you like the most. The store should carry running shoes that fit your feet properly, but if they do not, you can ask the clerk if they can place a special order for the right track running shoes.
3. If you are buying track shoes with spikes, check the size of the spikes. Spikes that are too long will stick in the rubberized surface of the track more than smaller spikes, which can slow down your time. If the spikes are longer than what you need, ask the store clerk if the shoes come with a smaller spike size.
4. If you are buying track shoes with rubber soles, look at the treads. To choose the right track running shoes for distance running, you want a sole that has the right kind of tread. Try the track shoes on, and see if the treads meet your requirements. Make sure the shoes cushion your foot properly, and then finalize your purchase once you are satisfied with the fit.
Links to online retailer:
http://www.fitnesssports.com/trackspikesKids.html
