What to Look for When Buying Sneakers

Age-old advice recommends never buying a book based on its cover. The same goes for the best sneakers. At least initially, look beyond the color and design because the features such as support and fit can influence your comfort and protect against injury. Shopping for sneakers can be stressful, but we've gathered all the things that you might want to consider when finding the perfect pair for your needs.

Price

You can expect to spend between $75 and $200 on a high-quality pair of sneakers. Less expensive shoes, like Asics’ Gel-Excite 9, are a low-risk investment for new or casual runners. But they may not have enough stability or support for runners with flat feet or plantar fasciitis. More expensive shoes, like Hoka’s Bondi 8, tend to have features that target specific conditions like these. However, for people with neutral arches who only walk or run occasionally, a pricier shoe’s over-the-top support features may feel uncomfortable.

Consider your individual budget and find sneakers within your price range. There are plenty of options that are high quality and affordable.

Fit

Finding the right fit can be difficult, but it’s a crucial step in purchasing sneakers that you’ll love wearing. We spoke with podiatrist Saylee Tulpule, DPM to get expert advice on finding the perfect fit.

Tulpule recommends getting fitted by an expert in person first. Then, once you’ve found sneakers that feel comfortable, it’s easy to order replacement pairs later online. She says athletic shoes should always be a half or a full size up from your regular (or dress) shoe size. To make sure you have enough room in the toe box, check that there’s a half-thumb distance between the front of the shoe and the tip of your longest toe, adds Tulpule. These guidelines should help you find a sneaker that feels as good as it looks.

Note that the term 'fit' is subtly different than 'size.' Fit infers the personal comfort of a shoe, whereas size is the standardized measurement of a shoe. Note that different brands may have slight variations in size, so it's always important to try shoes on, consult with a knowledgeable shoe salesperson, and read up on the brand's sizing chart or reviews.

Materials

Walking and running sneakers have three main parts: the upper, the midsole, and the outsole. A shoe’s upper should be breathable, to help air circulate and prevent sweat or odors from building up. Most uppers on our list are made from lightweight mesh or knit fabric, and some contain recycled materials. Midsoles need to be thick and well-cushioned, without feeling too heavy or bulky. They’re usually made from layers of soft foam or gel, sometimes with air pockets in between. Midsoles can range in thickness from less than 0.5 inches all the way up to 1.5 inches, like in New Balance’s Fresh Foam X More v4. And most outsoles are made from durable rubber that provides good traction on a variety of surfaces, from treadmill belts to rocky trails. 

Support

Over- or underpronation, flat feet, plantar fasciitis, high arches, and wide or narrow feet can all determine what kind of support you need in a sneaker. Having the right kind of support doesn’t just change how comfortable a shoe is—it also affects your ankles, your knees, and your stride. For instance, overpronators need motion control shoes to help stop their feet from rolling inward. When assessing how supportive a sneaker is, look for these key features:

• Arch support: Does the sneaker have extra support underneath the arch, or supports built into the sides of the shoe?
• Collar: Is there extra padding around the shoe’s collar, to protect your ankles?
• Heel cushioning: Does the heel have cushioning both underneath your foot and around your Achilles tendon, for better stability?
• Drop: How big is the shoe’s drop (i.e. the difference between the height of the front of the shoe and the back of the shoes)? Does it feel comfortable to wear, or does it place too much pressure on your feet and knees?

It’s also important to replace your sneakers regularly to make sure they continue to support your feet for many miles to come. Tulpule suggests investing in a new pair every 300 to 400 miles for avid, long-distance runners, or between every six months and one year for walkers and casual runners. 

Comfort

It doesn’t matter how stylish or supportive your sneakers are—if they aren’t comfortable, you won’t want to wear them. Look for shoes with thick, plush padding and a breathable upper that will keep your feet cool and dry. Certain sneakers, like New Balance’s 990v5, even have removable insoles, so you can add your own if there’s a pair you already own and like. 

It’s also worth noting that the best sneakers don’t need to be broken in. If they aren’t comfortable the first time you try them on, they might be the wrong size. Or, they may have support in an area where your feet just don’t need it. Either way, aim for a pair that feels soft and springy the moment you slip them on.

Choosing sneakers that are comfortable is key, as it reduces the risk of injuries and discomfort.

Purpose

The sneaker industry is a $72 billion business, and there are different types of sneakers to fit a variety of purposes. There are everyday sneakers, fashion sneakers, walking shoes, running shoes, trail running shoes, gym shoes, you name it. Consider your intended use of the sneaker, and then refine the products you look at based on that. For example, you would want to invest in a different sneaker for playing tennis or pickleball versus marathon training.

Durability

It's important to consider the overall construction and durability of your shoe. This relates back to the point about purpose, but a trail running shoe will likely be more durable than a super light track shoe due to its intended purpose. If you're looking for a super durable shoe, check out the toe box and heel to ensure they are reinforced, as well as the outsoles to double-check they will provide good traction.

Style

While the design and color of a shoe should not be the primary focus, these days, there are lots of options when it comes to sneakers. Once you find a shoe that checks all the boxes in terms of fit and function, consider your personal style preferences and find a color or design that makes you feel confident. For instance, do you prefer the convenience of slip-on sneakers? After all, you have to feel good in the shoe.