“What’s the best running shoe?”
It’s one of the most searched questions on the internet and one of the most common questions I hear at Reno Running Company. The truth is, there isn’t a single “best” running shoe. Instead, there’s a best for you option, and finding it is all about the process.
At Reno Running Company, we guide every runner through that process. It comes down to two fundamentals:
- Comfort – the most important factor by far.
- Balance – a little more complex, but just as critical for long-term success.
Let’s walk through what that experience looks like.
Step One: The Conversation
We start by talking about you—your goals, how you plan to use the shoe, and any past or current injuries. Your history and current goals shape where we go next.
Step Two: Measuring Your Foot
Yes, we still use the old-school Brannock device, the same metal tool from more than 100 years ago. Why? Because most people are actually in the wrong size shoe, and if the size isn’t right, comfort is nearly impossible to achieve.
Step Three: Gait Analysis
Once we know your size, we’ll put you in a neutral running shoe and record a short treadmill walk or jog. In about 30 seconds, we get valuable video showing how your foot moves.
This is where balance comes in. We look for how your stride and foot mechanics interact with the shoe; whether your foot stays centered or tends to roll or slide.
Step Four: Trying Shoes That Fit You
From there, we’ll bring out around five pairs of shoes, chosen based on your goals and what we saw in your gait. You’ll test them not just for comfort, but for the overall experience they provide:
- Do you prefer a pillowy-soft, highly cushioned feel?
- Something firmer and more responsive?
- Or maybe a mix—soft but springy?
As you move in each pair, we watch for subtle signs of balance. Does your foot slide off the platform? Is the shoe too narrow or too wide? Or does it disappear on your feet, fitting so seamlessly you barely notice it?
Finding Your Best Running Shoe
That’s the moment we’re aiming for—the shoe that feels natural, supports your stride, and fits your goals. Because the “best” running shoe isn’t determined by a list online – it’s the one that works best for you.
And that’s what we love helping runners discover every day at Reno Running Company.