The perfect shoe for you

The shoes you wear during exercise are important and effect the biomechanics of your feet up to your shoulders. When you go into any athletic shoe store, you will notice the shoes are categorized into different activities: running, cross-trainers, basketball, soccer, shopping ;) just kidding.

Let's pretend you're at an athletic shoe store. You need a new pair of kicks for a specific activity. Look for your activity throughout the selection and start trying on - comfort is very important. At some places, like New Balance and Luke's Locker, employees "fit your foot"; they analyze your biomechanics while watching you walk and determine whether your arch is neutral, flat or high; whether you over pronate or supinate; are pigeon toed or have knock-knees.

So, get to shopping for the perfect shoe for your desired activity.

• RUNNING SHOES

-typically designed for ankle flexion

-neutral foot-strikers: you want a shoe that doesn't detract from how you run naturally; motion controlled shoes are not recommended.

-over-pronators: shoe must provide enough support that keeps your foot from rolling inward

-supinators: you need a soft and flexible shoe that rolls easily in order to protect your feet

• CROSS-TRAINERS

-used for aerobic dance or step classes, lifting weights or participating in other activities

-designed for forward and back and side to side movements

• TRAIL SHOES

-used for runners who run off road

-typically weather and water resistant

• BASKETBALL

-must be durable yet breathable

-lots of cushioning for load distribution (you'll need it if you're doing millions of jump shots)

-mid-foot, heel and high ankle support

As for my shoppers, you're best bet would be a:

• WALKING SHOE

-should be lighter and more flexible at the ball of the foot, thinner midsole and strong arch support

-as a walker, you push off with your heel and a low, angled heel helps stability maintenance