OBERSON BUYING GUIDE
How to choose your road running shoes
Cushioning, support, drop and fit: the essential criteria for choosing your road running shoes.
IN BRIEF
How to choose your road running shoes
To choose your road running shoes, first determine the level of cushioning based on your type of runs, then choose the type of support (neutral or stability). Then refine your choice with the drop and fit. In practice, cushioning and support influence the running sensation, while the drop and fit optimize comfort and adapt to your foot strike type.
Road shoes
Road running shoes are designed for running on hard surfaces such as asphalt roads and pavements. They typically feature effective cushioning, lightweight construction, and breathable materials to promote a smooth and comfortable stride.
What level of cushioning should you choose for your road running shoes?
| Amortization | Perfect for | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| Minimal | Speed sessions, Intervals | Responsive, direct ground contact |
| Moderate | Daily outings | Balanced |
| Maximum | Long-distance, recovery runs | Soft, protective |
To choose your road cushioning: opt for minimal cushioning for speed, moderate for versatile use, and maximal for comfort over long distances.
Understanding the different levels of cushioning
Minimal cushioning
Minimal cushioning provides a more direct ground feel and a more responsive ride. It is particularly suitable for runners who prioritize speed sessions and seek a closer-to-the-road feel. This type of cushioning promotes an active and precise stride on hard surfaces.
Moderate cushioning
Moderate cushioning offers a balance between comfort and efficiency. It is suitable for runners seeking a versatile option for most of their road training, whether for daily runs or sessions with various objectives. This is often the simplest choice for regular asphalt running.
Maximum cushioning
Maximum cushioning prioritizes greater shock absorption, which can help limit fatigue on long road runs. It is particularly suitable for runners who prioritize comfort and protection, especially during long distances or recovery sessions. On the other hand, it may offer a slightly less dynamic and less stable feel.
Should you choose a neutral or stability road running shoe?
To choose between a neutral or stability model: opt for a neutral shoe in most cases, and go for a stability model if you need increased support to better guide foot movement.
Neutral shoes
Neutral shoes allow the foot to move naturally with each stride, without specific correction. They are suitable for most runners. If you do not need specific support, this type of model is the most suitable.
Stability shoes
Stability shoes are designed to provide extra support for feet that tend to roll inward (overpronation). They incorporate design elements—such as firmer foam or structured side walls—to better guide the foot and limit excessive movement. This type of shoe may be recommended if you need more structure.
What drop should you choose for your road running shoes?
To choose the drop: opt for a low drop for more direct contact with the ground, moderate for good balance, or high for more comfort at heel strike.
The drop is the difference in height between the heel and the forefoot of a running shoe. It influences the feel underfoot and how the foot makes contact with the ground.
Low drop (0 to 4 mm)
A low drop promotes a midfoot or forefoot strike and provides a closer-to-the-ground feel. It is suitable for runners who want more direct contact and a more natural stride on the road.
Moderate drop (5 to 8 mm)
A moderate drop offers a good balance between fluidity and ground contact. It adapts to a wide variety of strides.
High drop (8 to 12 mm)
A high drop promotes a heel strike and a forward roll. It is suitable for runners who want more comfort under the heel.
If you change the drop, plan for a gradual adaptation period to allow your body time to adjust. Ultimately, there is no single combination of cushioning, support, and drop that suits all runners. Comfort remains your best guide: the right shoe is the one that feels natural from the first strides.
How to find the right fit for your road running shoes?
To find the right fit: prioritize a firm hold at the heel and midfoot, while leaving enough room in the forefoot for your toes to move freely.
The right pair should feel comfortable as soon as you put it on. Look for good heel support, a precise midfoot fit, and enough room in the forefoot to allow your toes to move naturally (this space is important, as feet tend to swell during running). Each brand designs its shoes on a different last, which can lead to significant variations in fit. Some models offer a wider design, adapted to the natural shape of the foot, while others focus more on support. Several models are also available in wide versions for runners with wider feet.
Here are some tips for trying on road running shoes:
Make sure there's about a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Try on both shoes and choose the pair that fits your larger foot.
Bring the socks or orthotics you usually wear for running for a more precise fit.
Try on shoes at the end of the day, when your feet are at their largest.
FAQ — Road Running Shoes
Find here the answers to the most frequently asked questions about choosing road running shoes.
Do women need women's road running shoes?
No. The most important factor remains the fit. Women's running shoes are often designed with a slightly different last to account for certain anatomical differences. They generally have a narrower heel and midfoot, as well as a more spacious forefoot. Women's models sometimes offer other features, such as increased cushioning or better arch support. That said, many women also find unisex or men's models very comfortable, especially when they need a wider shoe or one with more volume.
Can I wear road running shoes for walking or everyday use?
Yes, but it's best to save them for running. While running shoes are comfortable enough for walking or everyday use, this compresses the cushioning faster and can shorten their lifespan. If you run regularly, keeping your shoes for training helps preserve their performance. That said, when they become a little too worn for running, you can extend their use by wearing them for your walks or daily outings.
What is the difference between road running shoes and trail running shoes?
Road running shoes are designed for hard surfaces, while trail models are adapted for uneven terrain. Road running shoes generally prioritize cushioning, lightweight construction, and good breathability. Trail running shoes feature deeper lugs for better traction, more robust uppers, and increased protection to help you navigate rugged terrain, strewn with roots and rocks.
Can running shoes be used on trails?
Yes, on simple, less technical trails. Road running shoes can be suitable for rolling courses with few roots, rocks, or mud.
However, they offer less grip and protection than trail running shoes, and their sole and upper wear out more quickly on uneven surfaces. For frequent use or on more technical trails, trail running shoes remain the most suitable choice.
Do I need different running shoes for different types of runs?
Yes, depending on your budget and training. For road running, many runners use a single versatile pair for most of their runs, but a second pair can improve comfort and performance. Lighter, more responsive shoes are often preferred for speed sessions and competitions, while models with more cushioning are better suited for long runs or recovery days.
If you occasionally run on trails, trail running shoes offer better grip and increased protection.
How to know when to replace your running shoes?
Most running shoes need to be replaced after about 500 to 800 kilometers, but certain signs can indicate it's time for a new pair: a loss of cushioning, a feeling of stiffness, or visible wear on the sole.
If your shoes become less comfortable or offer less support than they initially did, it's generally best to replace them to maintain good protection and avoid discomfort.
Road running shoes at Oberson
Find the right shoe
At Oberson, you will find road running shoes for all types of runners, from those who simply want to move daily to more experienced competitors. If you need advice, our specialists are available in-store and online to guide you toward the ideal shoe and fit.
