HOW DO you PICK a pair of sport shoes?

Gym shoes, sport shoes, sneakers — whatever you call them, proper-fitting athletic shoes can enhance performance and prevent injuries. Follow these fitting tips from foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeons when purchasing your next pair.

Purchase shoes from a specialty store, if possible. The staff will provide valuable input on the type of shoe needed for your sport as well as help with proper fitting.

Try on athletic shoes after a workout or run and at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. Fit your shoe to your largest foot.

Wear the same type of sock that you would wear for that sport.

Re-lace the shoes. You should begin at the farthest eyelets and apply even pressure as you create a crisscross lacing pattern to the top of the shoe.

Check the fit. When the shoe is on your foot, you should be able to freely wiggle your toes. Make sure you can fit at least one thumb between your longest toe and the end of the shoe's toe box. The shoes should be comfortable as soon as you try them on. Don't plan on them fitting better after "breaking them in."

Walk or run a few steps in the shoes and make sure they are comfortable.

Check the heel. There should be a firm grip of the shoe to your heel and your heel should not slip as you walk or run.

Consider a sport-specific shoe. This may be necessary if you participate in a sport three or more times a week.

Change shoes regularly. After 300-500 miles of running or 300 hours of exercise, the cushioning material in a shoe is usually worn down and it's time to replace the shoes.