Merrell Lace-up Women's Shoes

Where do you plan to run?

• Road or track: Lighter shoes for speed, more cushioned shoes for distance
• Gravel paths: Hybrid shoes, designed for both road and trail

Cushion comes down to "feel" vs. "float"

• Minimal and barefoot cushioning: little to no padding, more groundfeel
• Moderate cushioning: more traditional ride
• Maximum cushioning: softest, bounciest ride

What kind of support do you need?
Depending on your gait, you may need a stability shoe. But most runners will fare well with a neutral shoe.

Make sure the shoe fits.
No breaking in periods, period! Your shoe should fit well from the get go.