If you plan on starting a robust fitness regimen as part of your active lifestyle, then you need a great pair of running shoes. They're vital to jogging and running, but those are far from the only exercises where you might need them. Walking, hiking, cycling, treadmills, jumping rope, and exercise bikes are all activities where you might want running shoes.

Running shoes serve many functions. The most obvious one should be protecting your feet from external elements or surfaces. Shoes guard your feet against cuts, bruises, scratches, and abrasions. This means you can move safely and with more speed. On top of that, running shoes should also support your fitness as much as the health of your feet. Being able to move with the right strides lets you cover more ground when walking or running. Proper leg movement also helps you strengthen your lower body and tone up your muscles.

Signs of a Great Running Shoe

There's no specific running shoe that's perfect for everyone. You need to look for the one right for you, but there are certain factors you can look for that tell you that you've found the one: Since running shoes are primarily there to prevent repetitive motion injuries, how they fit is more important than any other factor. Consider these features of good-fitting running shoes:

• Try them on later in the day when your feet have had time to swell.
• Find the right width. Standard widths are R for ladies and D for gentlemen.
• Look for shoes free of sliding or pinching.
• There should be room for your thumb in front of each toe and the shoe's end.

Every running shoe has a specific purpose based on the kind of running you intend to do.

• Everyday running shoes are versatile and the most durable.
• Lightweight running shoes are not as durable and have less cushioning.
• Trail running shoes get better grip on rocky trails or dirt terrain.

You can find running shoes for under $50. However, they may not be very good, they may not last long, or both. High-caliber running shoes run from $100 up to $250. Having said that, it's possible to overspend for more than you need. If you want to strike a balance between good fit, durability, and price, plan on spending $110 to $150.

The Industry Leading Brands

The running shoe industry has many reputable brands you can choose from, but it can also get overwhelming fast. Some of the most popular and best producing (in alphabetical order) include: 

1. Altra: Roomy shoe shapes and stellar performance have earned this young brand many fans, and their success centers around its patented FootShape toe box for natural landings and push offs.
2. ASICS: ASICS running shoes take advantage of modern technology. Many of their shoes actually get more comfortable the longer you wear them for a premium running experience.
3. Brooks: Based in Seattle, this brand only cares about running to the exclusion of all other sports. Every runner can find a pair of Brooks that fits their training.
4. HOKA: The cushioning in their running shoes earned them many fans among long-distance runners and anyone who has to stand or walk a lot.
5. Karhu: Karhu started outfitting Olympians and novice runners alike over a century ago. Their modern shoes use lab testing to minimize vertical oscillation to help runners maintain forward momentum.
6. New Balance: An iconic name in athletic equipment for many decades, this brand doesn't disappoint with their running shoes. Their versatile styles are just as good for running errands as they are training for triathlons. They also are one of the few brands that ensure shoes are available in wide sizes. 
7. Nike: The 'swoosh' logo is recognized around the world. Nike's product line includes notable offerings for everyone from amateurs to elite athletes.
8. Saucony: This brand has a century of history under its belt, and they still know what they're doing. Whether you need something light as a feather, cushioned stability, or spikes for rough terrain, you can find your next running shoe with their tag.