Choose the Right Shoe, Sport

The proper equipment is important no matter what sport or fitness activity you participate in. That goes for athletic shoes, as well. The shoes you wear should be designed for your activity, whether jogging or a pickup game of basketball.

Here's what the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) says to look for when you go shopping for athletic shoes.

Be sure to check with your health care provider before beginning a fitness program.

• Running/jogging. These shoes should offer excellent cushioning and shock absorption, as well as good stability at the heel.

• Walking. Your walking shoes should be lightweight, but with good cushioning in both the heel and ball of the foot. The sole should be slightly rounded so you can easily shift your weight from heel to toes.

• Aerobics. Shoes for an aerobics program should be lightweight, with extra cushioning under the ball of the foot.

• Tennis. Shoes for playing tennis and other racquet sports don't need quite as much cushioning as those for running and aerobics, but they should have good stability on the inside and outside of the foot. That's because racquet sports involve side to side movements. Look for a shoe with flexibility in the ball of the foot.

• Basketball. These shoes should have thick, stiff soles for good stability. A shoe with a high top can help prevent a sprained ankle when landing from a jump.

Tips for a good fit

The AOFAS offers these ideas for getting a well-fitting shoe:

• Shop for shoes at the end of the day or after a workout, when your feet are at their biggest.

• Wear the socks you usually wear with your athletic shoes.

• There should be at least the width of your thumb between the end of your longest toe and the toe of the shoe.