As winter approaches it is time for runners to put in their bulk training with an increase in mileage with a view towards their spring racing. During this time it is a good idea to review your foorwear needs for the season.

As weather changes, so do the requirements in your footwear. When the temperature gets colder you may want to consider changing your shoes. The EVA (Ethyl Vinyl Acetate) and PU (Polyurethane) in your shoes will become harder in the colder weather as the air in the plastic becomes compressed and therefore there is less shcok attenuation. As the midsole becomes harder so does the shoe's ability to flex easily. This means that it will be harder for you to toe-off during running, which may cause some discomfort in the ball of your foot.

Running in wet weather will expediate the breakdown of the shoe as water will create an unhealthy environment for both the foot and the shoe.

There is a higher incidence of fungal infections (athlete's foot) during this period as fungus likes the dark damp areas in your shoes. It is a good idea to have a second pair of shoes on the ''go'', to allow the first pair to dry while you wear the second pair for your next run. Some trail shoes are water resistant (not waterproof) and some will have Gore-Tex TM which is both breathable and waterproof. These will help keep your feet dry and warm. If your shoes don't have these properties and you want to keep your feet dry during the winter try putting your feet in plastic grocery bags before you put your shoes on. This will keep your feet dry and warm during those long winter runs.

Traction during winter running can always be a problem. With rain, sleet, and snow covering the sidewalks and streets, the treads on your shoes become very important in injury prevention. One slip and all your training could be for naught. Make sure the tread on your running shoes is still good and safe to use. This should become a daily ritual.

You may want to consider changing to a trail shoe as the tread is usually deeper. In really slippery weather, having ''studs'' for your shoes can be the difference between running and not. Such devices as ''Yaktrax'' can make running on ice safer, however, whenever possible you should avoid running on icy surfaces. If you have the availability of a treadmill, then in really poor weather, use it instead. Another option is to cross train in a swimming pool. Have a great ''winter'' of running!