Running shoes are the most important piece of kit for any runner, and knowing how your feet work is crucial for finding the right trainers to keep you running injury free, whatever your running training distance. The Ultimate Guide to Buying Running Socks Not all socks are the same, and when it comes to running socks, a good pair of technical ones will make all the difference. Keeping your feet dry and comfortable will not only reduce your risk of blisters but keep you running confidently. Here's how to choose the best running socks for you. How to Choose the Right Shoe for You With so many to choose from buying running shoes can be a daunting task but we're here to make it easy. Just follow our handy guide to find out what questions you need to be asking, and what it all means. Take a Run on the Wild Side: A Beginner's Guide to Trail Running Mountain Leader Simon James tells you everything you need to know before hitting the trails Located within a ten metre sprint from the monster mall’s massive fast food joints, this efficient store in Westfield offers a wide range of running apparel and trainers as well as gait analysis via treadmill video recording.

You can also get customised insoles, sports bra fitting and free access to online fitness support service Full Potential. A popular free-of-charge running group meets at the store on Tuesdays and Sundays, a rare example of community spirit and dedicated customer service coming together in a giant shopping centre. Unit 1027 Westfield, Level 14 Groundfloor, E20 1ES Run and Become is a well-established running shop that offers specialist brands like Saucony, Zoot and Mizuno alongside bigger brands like Adidas and Nike. They also do a ‘natural’ gait analysis, which provides feedback on your foot strike (that’s how your foot lands) and the way your whole body moves. You’ll then have the opportunity to try on different shoes and give them a test drive on the store’s mini running track. Or if you’re just browsing, head downstairs for a workshop or physio services for runners. 4 Eccleston St, SW1W 9LN Catering for skiers, tennis players, trekkers and runners alike, this busy Fulham shop uses sophisticated technology to create bespoke insoles (if you have £119.95 to spare).

First, you’ll need to book in for a thorough assessment (£40) where your feet and running style will be scrutinised – you’ll even be provided with footscans and bespoke exercises. If you’re simply on the hunt for new running shoes, book in for a free ‘light’ service where your gait is measured. Staff are knowledgable and super-helpful. Brands include Asics, Adidas, Brooks, Saucony and Mizuno. 867-869 Fulham Rd, SW6 5HP Based in the City, The Running Works proudly considers itself the largest independent running shop in London, which means you can find all manner of shoes and kit, from both known and left-field brands including Nike, Saucony and OMM. Free gait analyses are also available or you can get advice from staff members who double-up as competitive athletes (so they know what they’re talking about). 28-30 Houndsditch, EC3A 7DB There are at least six Nike stores across London, but at Oxford Circus or Covent Garden, you can find a dedicated section for runners looking for a gait analysis, a customised pair of trainers – courtesy of the NikeiD service – or a full range of clothing and sneakers.

Oxford Circus also hosts the NRC running club – a free weekly series of sessions aimed at everyone from first-timers to marathoners. 14-15 Neal Street, London, WC2H 9LY Serious runners leg it to the Asics flagship store, where beyond the sizeable collection of running shoes and apparel, you can also get a 3D scan of your feet and a gait analysis to make sure you pick the right ones. vans mens sale ukAnd if you want to put that new footgear to work, Asics hosts two free weekly running sessions at their branches for beginners and intermediate runners.best shoes for running for knees 527 Oxford St, W1C 2QLcheap soccer shoes 2013 This friendly independent prides itself on great customer service and offers a fine range of running gear. nike weather shoes price

Enthusiasts of the barefoot running trend, here you will find a good selection of ultra-lightweight running shoes. As with all top running shops, London City Runner offers a gait analysis to help you find your ideal running shoes. Trainer brands include Asics, Brooks, VIVOBAREFOOT and Mizuno.best basketball nike shoes 2015 10 Ludgate Broadway, EC4V 6DUtennis shoe brand that starts with s If you’re flirting with the idea of barefoot running, the stylish VIVOBAREFOOT flagship store in Covent Garden will help you find your feet – and of course, a new pair of minimalistic running kicks. Staff are knowledgeable, and the shop’s also got a clinic which offers personal and group training to master the barefoot technique (for a fee), or you can opt for a one-to-one session with a running coach.

64 Neal Street, WC2H 9PQ With branches throughout London, staff at this popular chain help you find the trainers to suit your specific running requirements, taking into account what terrain you are running on and obsessing over important details like how the thickness of socks will affect the fit of your running shoe. As with other running specialists, you are filmed while running on a treadmill and the footage is played back to you (in freeze-frame if necessary) to accurately assess your foot plant, stride and running pattern. A good range of running clobber is available, alongside accessories like watches and heart monitors. 3 Proctor Street, London, WC1V 6DW This JD Sports and Nike collab is a one-stop, glossy shop for cool kids looking to hit the streets running in style. Crosstown’s flashy shoes are arranged according to ‘rides’, with options including casual, stable or barefoot – and you can check these out on display, via the in-store touch screens or a visual wall displaying a mixture of brand and user-generated images from Instagram.