Sports shops: a guide to buying trainers

Pick a trainer that fits the job
Different sporting activities make different demands on your feet.

Wearing the right trainers for your chosen activity can not only protect you from injury but can also improve your performance.

A sports shop can help you buy a pair of trainers designed specifically for the sport or activity you intend to do.

Don't let looks deceive
Don't be sidetracked by the latest gimmicks and designer detail: trainers are practical shoes so let the sports shop know what you need them for.

If you run or jog
If you jog, tell the sports shop how often you run and on what surface(s), for example grass, road or towpath. The sports shop salesperson may also want to know your weight to help them select the best shoe.

You may want to take your old pair of trainers into the sports shop so they can see your wear pattern.

Look for a lightweight trainer in the sports shop, with a thick sole and good cushioning to absorb impact. A narrow-fitting heel will keep your foot stable, and a wide-fitting front will allow your foot to spread.

If you play racquet sports
Playing tennis, badminton or squash means a lot of side-to-side motion.

For racquet sports, sports shops sell trainers with a strong, durable upper that are firm and supportive along the length and have good shock absorption in both the heel and the forefront. The sports shop selection should also have good traction grip, a sole that isn't too high and a firm heel cup.

If you do aerobics
For high-impact aerobics, sports shops sell trainers with a lightweight upper, flexible sole, good heel grip and good all-round support.

Ask in the sports shops for trainers with good shock absorption in the heel and forefoot, and good underfoot cushioning to lessen the impact of jumping and landing—the force sent through you each time your foot hits the ground is equivalent to at least three times your body weight!

If you do a variety of sports
If you want one pair of trainers that you can use for all your exercise activities, sports shops offer a range of crosstrainers.

The sports shop can advise you on the best crosstrainer to meet your requirements. However, if you're going to run for more than 15 minutes then the sports shop is almost certain to recommend specialist running trainers.