Need some new running shoes? Want to replace your scuffed up sneakers? Need to be more physically active and need the footwear to inspire you?

Easier said than done. With store aisles full of hundreds of different brands and models of sneakers, it can be downright tough for teens to figure out which kind to buy and too tempting to buy the latest teen fad.

Check out the tips below for some guidance on buying the best athletic shoes. 

Teens: Get the right fit for growing feet

First off, have your feet measured at a shoe store. And keep in mind that athletic shoes often run larger than regular shoes. Also:

• Walk around the store for a few minutes to make sure the shoes are comfortable.
• Don’t buy shoes in the morning; feet swell up to half a size by the end of the day or after exercising.
• Bring your own sports socks or orthotics to the shoe store. If you’re barefoot or have thin socks, you won’t be able to tell if the shoes fit.
• Make sure there’s enough room for your toes to wiggle—about a thumb’s width between your big toe and the end of the shoe.
• If one foot is larger than the other, buy shoes that fit the larger foot.

Know your foot shape

Do you have wide feet or narrow feet? High arches, or flat feet? Are you pigeon-toed, or knock-kneed? Salespeople at good shoe stores should be able to give you guidance about these issues—and fit you with shoes that help correct for them.

Wear sports-specific shoes

Choose athletic footwear based to match your chosen physical activity. Wearing the wrong kind of shoe can sideline you with injuries like knee pain, shin splints, or tendonitis. Here’s what to look for for different sports: