How to Find Your Solemate

Finding your solemate can end up becoming the marathon you’re supposed to be training for. That’s where we come in. At Complete Runner, we specialise in finding the ideal running shoes for you. The perfect shoe is about fit, comfort, durability and performance.

So: where to start?

It can be tempting to rush into things when searching for your solemate – and the same goes for finding the right running shoe. You might need to set aside aesthetics and focus on what truly meets your needs. There’s a perfect shoe for every runner, whether you’re tackling high, medium, or low mileage, running on roads, trails or tracks. Whether you require a wider toe box, a neutral fit, a specific heel-to-toe drop, better energy return, or support to control your foot roll, we have the right running shoe for you.

If you’re still a beginner and find the buzzwords and technical jargon overwhelming – stick with us! This article is designed to help runners at any experience level.

Before you buy running shoes, let’s check your gait

Running gait is the way your leg moves during each step when you run. Understanding your gait helps analyze your running form. If your gait is off, it can lower performance and increase your risk of injury. Since everyone’s gait is unique, the right shoes for one person might not work for another. To find your perfect fit, try a simple wet foot test to analyze your gait.

What’s a wet test?

The wet foot test is an easy way to understand your foot type and gait, making it a great starting point in finding your solemate. However, for the most accurate assessment, we recommend visiting us in-store.

For the wet test, you’ll need a shallow pan of water, towel and a flat surface. Alternatively, you can do this right after a shower or bath. The key is, you guessed it, having wet feet.

Simply wet your foot and step onto the towel, applying your full weight. Stand normally for a few seconds, then step off. The goal is to leave a clear, wet footprint. Your footprint will fall into one of three categories:

Overpronator: your foot rolls in too much as you walk or run. Our experts recommend support shoes with stability features that help prevent overpronation.

Neutral: footprint with a noticeable curve inward, but not overly pronounced. Our experts recommend neutral shoes as you’ll want moderate support and cushioning.

Supinator: the opposite of overpronation, your foot rolls outwards when you walk or run. Our experts recommend neutral shoes as you’ll want moderate support and cushioning.

Where are you running?

Picking the right shoe for your type of run is crucial. We offer road, trail, fell, spikes (for track and/or cross country) & racing shoes to suit different needs. Before diving into the details, ask yourself: “Where will I be running?”

We know times are tough and buying multiple shoes might not always be an option, so if you’re after a single pair we’d recommend choosing shoes for the terrain you’ll be running on most often. However, it’s important to be cautious. For example, if you buy some trail shoes and start using them frequently on roads, the lugs and grip will wear down much faster.

Road Running Shoes

Neutral Running Shoes

If you’re mostly running on pavements and tarmac and have a neutral or supinating foot, you’ll want a neutral running shoe. These are the most common type of trainer, designed with extra cushioning and shock absorption to protect your joints from hard surfaces. They’re super comfortable and help reduce the risk of injury, making them perfect for city or town runs.

Support Running Shoes

Support running shoes are great for anyone who overpronates (when your foot rolls in too much as you run). They’re like neutral running shoes but with extra stability to keep your foot aligned and stop overpronation. This helps you run more comfortably and reduces the risk of injuries.

Trail Running Shoes

If you’re heading out on grass, fields, or muddy trails, trail running shoes are for you. They’re built differently from road shoes, giving you way better grip and traction on uneven ground like rocks, roots, or puddles. With tough outsoles, deeper tread, and added ankle support, these shoes help you stay steady and comfortable, no matter what the trail throws your way.

Fell Running Shoes

Fell running shoes are made for the wildest, steepest, and muddiest terrain. They’re lightweight and designed with aggressive tread patterns to give you unbeatable grip on slippery grass, loose rocks, and steep hills. Unlike trail or road shoes, they focus on grip and flexibility over cushioning, so you can move confidently across tough, unpredictable landscapes. If you’re tackling fells, these shoes are your best friend.

Spike Shoes

Spike running shoes are perfect for athletes who need maximum grip and speed on the track, grass, or cross-country courses. With metal spikes in the outsole, these shoes help you dig into the surface for powerful traction and explosive starts. They’re lightweight and built for performance, making them ideal for sprints, distance runs, or even jumping events. If you’re looking to boost your speed and stability, spike shoes are a game-changer. Metal inserts are offered in 6mm (track), or 9, 12, 15mm for the varying conditions of cross country.

Racing shoes

Racing shoes are all about speed and performance. Designed to be lightweight and streamlined, they help you move faster by reducing weight and enhancing energy return. Whether you’re running a 5K, a marathon, or anything in between, these shoes are built to maximize efficiency. With less cushioning than everyday trainers, they’re perfect for race day when every second counts.

Does brand matter?

The short answer is yes—but maybe not for the reasons you think. Running shoes should prioritise function over fashion. Trends don’t matter when it comes to running; it’s all about finding your solemate—a shoe that helps you perform at your best. We always recommend trying on running shoes before you buy, and we’re more than happy to help you with that in-store.