Oddly, the midsole cushioning is often where the running shoes’ power comes from. It may seem like an innocuous component, but this is the part of the shoe that will be responsible for supporting your foot through the stresses of long-distance running in particular. The midsole will also constantly adapt to the angles at which you run, the surface and the response your feet have to the terrain. The ideal midsole should be firm enough to offer adequate support while you run, and this, combined with a well-ventilated upper and soles with good grip, is essentially the recipe for a good pair of running shoes.

Many shoe manufacturers are now offering a “barefoot shoe” as part of their running portfolio. These shoes are a lot thinner, with a glove-like, minimalist sole. They offer a small amount of protection but do allow the foot to move within its natural range of motion. While these shoes have amassed a huge following in recent years, for purposes of the article, let’s assume shoes refer to traditional running shoes, like the kind you would find in Australian Asics stores. As a rule, these shoes should fit you well, straight out of the box, and if they are not well-fitted and comfortable, there is no guarantee that they will take on this quality later on. Assume that what you buy is what you get, and buy the right size straight off the bat. thewebscience