Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or jog leisurely, the type of shoes and socks you wear matter. While certain brands may have a well-known reputation in the world of sports and athletics, it’s often important to look beyond the brand name and identify your specific needs first before investing in a pair of kicks. Additionally, the type of compression running socks you pair with running shoes can make a difference. Here are some qualities you should look for to set yourself up for a prime running experience.

Put Comfort and Fit First  

Finding the right shoe for your step is crucial to optimizing your run. Whether you are looking for a shoe for longer distance training, one for leisure, or moderate jogs, put comfort and fit first in your search priorities for the perfect running shoes and compression running socks. Some people prefer more cushioning all around the shoe while others want a lighter, more breathable shoe—figure out which quality is more important for you and go from there.  

Next, since every individual’s foot is shaped slightly differently, the shape of a shoe and its arch support should conform to your particular foot. This might mean that the hottest kicks on the market may not necessarily be the right fit for your feet—and that is totally okay. At the end of the day, you’re going to be the one who will directly experience the impact the shoe has on your feet, knees and rest of your body.  

When trying on a shoe to gauge its comfort-level, be sure to wear the compression socks you plan on pairing them with. For example, if you prefer over-the-calf compression running socks, running shoes that have a higher ankle collar can be an ideal pairing since the compression sock would protect against any unwanted friction between the back of your ankle and the shoe. Or, if you prefer to stay light all around, try compression running socks that have an ultra-lightweight design but still provide the compression benefits to boost your step.  

Seek Top-Quality Support  

The right running shoe should not only be comfortable but also extra supportive. Since running imposes a higher impact on your lower limbs and joints, the type of shoe you wear should be able to take the added pressure and weight your body endures. Put on a pair of the compression running socks of your liking and the pair of running shoes you think will be the right fit. If you’re in a store, test them out. Running specialty stores often have treadmills for you to try their gear on to ensure that they are the right fit and provide enough support for the actual movements you make during your run.  

Look for a supportive shoe that gives you a little spring in your step and doesn’t feel heavy each time you lift your feet. Also take notice of how your knees feel as you run with the shoes and compression running socks. Last, make sure that the shoes aren’t negatively impacting your posture and how you hold up your body during a run. To note, compression running socks can give you added support by applying slight compression around your joints and lower limbs and guide them to move in the line of motion they were intended to follow.

Match Your Compression Running Socks and Shoes to Your Purpose

Once you’ve found the right comfort, fit and support you need on your run, you can now think about what kind of running and training you’ll be doing in your gear. If you are training for longer distance running, look for a pair of shoes that are made with top-quality, durable material so that they don’t get worn down from extensive use. At the same time, you’ll want to invest in a pair of compression running socks made for marathon running. These socks have a slightly higher compression level to adequately provide constant circulation to tired and overworked legs and feet.  

If you’re looking to run at a more leisure pace or rate, either less miles a day or less frequently, you may want compression socks that have a lower compression level or perhaps are only ankle-high. This lower level of compression can match the more leisure purpose you need them for, while still providing you with a steady amount of comfort to your feet.   

The terrain in which you run or train in also can influence your shoe and compression running sock choice. For outdoor trails that may have more uneven surfaces, look for running shoes that give you more stability and guard against surprise shifts in the feet and ankles. If you run in less than ideal weather and climate, compression running socks that are over-the-knee can provide an added layer of protection against debris that may cause nicks to your legs and at the same time keep your limbs warm with its special circulation-boosting design.  

Experience a Better Run with the Right Shoes and Compression Running Socks  

At PRO Compression, we care about your running experience, no matter what level and type of running you participate in. With this guide to finding the right running shoe for your specific needs as well as suggested ways to properly take advantage of compression running socks, you can get on the right path to a better overall running experience.  

Remember to focus on fit, comfort, support and matching your gear to your purpose and all the other aspects of training and exercise will fall into place. Start your journey to a better run by shopping our great selection of compression running socks that fit the needs of all types of runners.