Running Shoes

SamLD88

When I say barefoot, I mean barefoot. Not minimalist, although I do have Vibrams. No shoes is just easier. No socks, no sweaty feet. You have eyes, so you don't need to be afraid of glass (just don't jump on it and you'll be fine!).

I agree that you do need to start slow with barefoot running, but to put it in perspective, I'm doing ~ 6 mi a week right now mixed run/walk barefoot and I started 3 weeks ago running, and probably 2 months ago barefooting in the evenings (walking).

I'm not a NEW barefoot runner; I stopped a while back because of some personal issues (stopped everything really, and started cramming my face with food). I just can't go back to shoes. Don't get me wrong, I play soccer and wear cleats, and I work in a lab and wear shoes, but there's just something that feels so amazing about you and your feet on the earth.

But yes, if you're going for shoes at all, get fitted. They might still cause problems later. If they do, remember barefooting

RunnersLament

Hi! I am doing a program to train for a half marathon. The program highly suggests getting fitted for good running shoes from a specific store. I looked on the store's website and was shocked how expensive the shoes are. This will be the first thing I have trained for - running wise - so I want to have what I need to succeed, but I'm also wondering if this is just a great marketing ploy for the store. Do any runners out there have any suggestions or rules of thumb when it comes to buying footwear?

Yes get fitted. Everyones feet are different. Some people pronate, some people supinate and some people are neutral. Having the wrong type of shoe for your feet can lead to injury.

Shoes also wear out...the recommended wear on a shoe is about 500 miles plus or minus (depends on the shoe, the person, their weight, their running environment (gravel/snow/ice/concrete etc). Also remember that just because a shoe looks new, doesn't mean you haven't worn out the support on the shoe. They do take a beating slamming into the pavement a few thousand times per mile.

Yes, quality shoes are more expensive. But once you know what you need... you can order them for less online.

If you spend money on anything for running, your shoes are probably the single most important piece of equipment you can buy. There are a few ways you can save money... your shoes should not be one of them.

ka97

Yes, you should absolutely get fitted from a proper running store. Most are owned and operated by runners, and their goal is to get you into the right pair of shoes for you. Sure, you could go to one of the big box stores and buy a bottom of the line pair of shoes for a lot less, but in the end it is not worth it if you end up with injuries down the road. In running there are two things that are worth the investment in money - good shoes, and good socks - don't skimp. Now, you do not have to use the store recommended by the half marathon people. You could research into other stores in your area. But honestly, if the store is recommended by other runners, it is likely a good bet. As for the expense, yes good running shoes can be expensive, but again it's worth it if it keeps you from unnecessary pain or injury. A good store will spend a decent amount of time with you analyzing your gait, making recommendations, watching you try out multiple pairs of shoes. You could cost compare online, but I know that the two places I use charge no more than if I were to buy the shoes directly from the manufacturer's website. And I get 10% off as a return customer. And if I am not happy after running in the shoes they recommend, they take them back, no questions asked.

Ethically speaking, I have to say that if you spend time getting analyzed and fitted at the store and they recommend a shoe that you like, buy it from them. The store is providing a free service, which can sometimes take as long as thirty minutes. I just think it is wrong to take advantage of the service, and then buy the shoe elsewhere. Now, after the first pair......one you know exactly what shoe you wear, check on amazon for future replacements. In fact, as soon as the new model of my current shoe comes out, I check out amazon for deals on my shoe that is now considered a discontinued model.

scorpio516

there is a lot of marketing that goes on with shoes naturally, so yea some brands are more hype than others..as far as expensive...they arent all that much more than the top brands of any other shoes these days.

+1

But, unlike basketball, you can't find $275 running shoes very easily...
Nike Lebrons Elite are $275! Foot Locker sells 67 Nike basketball shoes that cost over $150.
As for soccer, D.I.ck's sells at least 48 cleats that MSPR for $199.99 or more

Asics makes a $200 running shoe. Nike a $180 running shoe. Maybe they'd be $250 if they were Lebron or Messi running shoes

GillianMcK

Go to a running shop to be properly fitted for trainers that are a match for your gait, it doesn't necessarily have to be a specific shop, there will likely be at least a couple you can go to.
Once you've bought your first pair, you can go online for the next pair (remember and get new shoes every 400-600 miles, which will build up quite quickly during training, I'm a new pair every 6mnths)!!

monicagellarbing

You should consider barefoot running. Not only is it cheaper, but it teaches your body proper form so that you don't get hurt halfway through training. Barefoot runners don't get plantar fasciitis. Check out this and many other resources (google BF running!) to get started:

http://zenhabits.net/barefoot-running/

Also, there's a "Society for Barefoot Living" on facebook and possible a barefoot runner's group in your town.

Interesting alternative! I'll look into this. Thank you all for the suggestions - really helpful.

Be careful with this -- barefoot running is really popular but if not done properly, can lead to injuries because your feet cant handle the training plus the adjustment. Are you mid way through half marathon training? Just starting out? Your feet need time to adjust to minimal or barefoot shoes.

Running doesn't cost a lot, so if you can invest in proper shoes, it will make a big difference

bidimus

You should consider barefoot running. Not only is it cheaper, but it teaches your body proper form so that you don't get hurt halfway through training. Barefoot runners don't get plantar fasciitis, or shin splints, or any of the diseases shoes are supposed to prevent or heal. Check out this and many other resources (google BF running!) to get started:

http://zenhabits.net/barefoot-running/

Also, there's a "Society for Barefoot Living" on facebook and possible a barefoot runner's group in your town.

Don't forget about the Barefoot Running Society. http://www.thebarefootrunners.org/

Another similar option is running in Huaraches which are much cheaper than conventional running shoes. You can even make your own if you're feeling creative.

bidimus

Been barefoot running about three of the four years I've been running now. Before that, the first year was spent figuring out what I was doing and going from injury to injury. The majority of which were resolved with the barefoot/natural running form. There is also a convenience that goes with barefoot running which feels freeing. I got very used to that and don't think I'll ever change now.

I have huaraches for when I need them as they're the next best thing to barefoot for me. The "shoe" is a tool and it's important to have the right tool for the job.

If you go with conventional running shoes be sure to get fitted like everyone else is saying. Keep in mind though that as a new runner, you're still evolving the nuances of your running technique. It is this that the running store that will be looking at though when they make their recommendations. As a result, it may not be the best fit bio-mechanically and may even encourage bad form as you compensate for the corrections the shoe is trying to make. One solution to this I've heard is start with a neutral shoe until you're a more experienced runner.

Another solution would be to learn barefoot running along with shod running. Using barefoot running as a training and strengthening tool could be very beneficial. I've heard this is not uncommon among sprinters. (don't know if that's true though)

I had a runner I was helping with some ankle problems. He didn't mind the barefoot running but preferred shoes. After working together on it a bit he incorporated periodic barefoot short runs to build strength along with a shoe that promoted mid-foot strikes. Now he's running 4-5 mile sessions regularly when before he struggled with 2-3.

splashtree2

Hi! I am doing a program to train for a half marathon. The program highly suggests getting fitted for good running shoes from a specific store. I looked on the store's website and was shocked how expensive the shoes are. This will be the first thing I have trained for - running wise - so I want to have what I need to succeed, but I'm also wondering if this is just a great marketing ploy for the store. Do any runners out there have any suggestions or rules of thumb when it comes to buying footwear?

ASICS OFF TRAIL, GREAT SHOES!!!

erinjruns

Not to be completely silly, but barefoot running only works in some parts of the country. I only know of one runner in Dallas that runs barefoot at races and even he owns a pair of shoes because, in his words, "If it's hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement, I'm putting on a pair of running shoes." Sadly, that's about four solid months in Texas.

SergeantNarwhal

Not to be completely silly, but barefoot running only works in some parts of the country. I only know of one runner in Dallas that runs barefoot at races and even he owns a pair of shoes because, in his words, "If it's hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement, I'm putting on a pair of running shoes." Sadly, that's about four solid months in Texas.

Oh haha! This is actually a really great thing to consider as I live in Texas.

Thank you - everyone for your input! VERY helpful. I will set aside the money to do it up proper.

Runningmischka

Get one size larger than you normally wear. Even though I got "fitted" at a running store they failed to catch this. I didn't know this until I started researching why my toe nails were all black and falling off.

That is the first time I have ever heard that and I think it is is absurd.

Maybe you always wore shoes a size too small in your lifetime.

No, this is actually a legit concern for marathoners and ultras as some find their feet expand overtime due to the excessive pounding mileage on them. Half-marathoners not so much though, wouldn't worry about it.

Most definitely not absurd. I run long distance, and used to lose 2-3 toenails every 6 months or so, until someone recommended getting a size bigger shoes. My pumps are 7.5-8, my long run brooks are 9, and my feet are blister free with a beautifully pedicured natural toenails :bigsmile:

bidimus

Not to be completely silly, but barefoot running only works in some parts of the country. I only know of one runner in Dallas that runs barefoot at races and even he owns a pair of shoes because, in his words, "If it's hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement, I'm putting on a pair of running shoes." Sadly, that's about four solid months in Texas.

Fair point. That's why some barefoot runners will opt for huaraches when the terrain becomes unfriendly. Just enough separation from the road to protect you but flexible enough that you can still "feel" the ground.

tcamp02

You absolutely need to go to a reputable running store and get fitted for shoes. They should watch you run and if you've been running, take your old shoes so they can look at the wear on them. This is the most important investment you can make if you want to be a runner. The wrong shoes can lead to all kinds of problems and injuries.

brandiuntz

As already said, get your gait checked so you know what kind of shoe you need (pronate, neutral, supinate). After that, try different brands and models for your gait. You can get less expensive models, the key is buying for your gait first. When you find what works, remember the brand & model, and look for cheaper pricing.

I happen to run in what is considered "cheap" running shoes...$45 Saucony's. That specific model works perfectly on my feet and lasts me anywhere from 300-500 miles. There's definitely some trial and error to it. Agreed about checking a running store's return policy if a shoe doesn't work out once you leave the store.

__Di__

Get one size larger than you normally wear. Even though I got "fitted" at a running store they failed to catch this. I didn't know this until I started researching why my toe nails were all black and falling off.

That is the first time I have ever heard that and I think it is is absurd.

Maybe you always wore shoes a size too small in your lifetime.

It is far from absurd, my running shoes are one size larger than my normal shoes and no, my normal shoes are not too small.

It depends on the runner and how much their feet may swell during a run - especially a long run. Imagine running, say a half marathon, when suddenly halfway through the race, your feet have swollen and suddenly your toes are now knocking against the ends of your shoes with each step - bruising, blisters and missing toenails will be the inevitable result. Even worse, imagine the same thing happening six miles into a marathon! Bloody painful and that is putting it lightly.

Scrunched up toes in shoes that are not large enough during running will also contribute to shin splints - another Godforsaken torture that could be avoided with correct fitting shoes.

OP definitely get fitted, don't ruin your running chances before you have hardly had a chance to get going with it all.

RunnersLament

Not to be completely silly, but barefoot running only works in some parts of the country. I only know of one runner in Dallas that runs barefoot at races and even he owns a pair of shoes because, in his words, "If it's hot enough to fry an egg on the pavement, I'm putting on a pair of running shoes." Sadly, that's about four solid months in Texas.

Totally agree with this... I run in the opposite extreme. Temperatures here can hit -40 in the winter not including windchill.

Barefoot doesn't work when your toes have frozen and turned black. :laugh:

Barefooting is not for everyone, but if you can incorporate some shorter barefoot runs into your routine it can be quite helpful. Short barefoot runs can strengthen the intrinsic muscles of the feet and lower legs and make you a better runner. While I am not likely to run a 5K or 10K barefoot, I do try to add 1-2 KM's into my regiment on a routine basis whether on the treadmill or outside.

momma2azoo

Get one size larger than you normally wear. Even though I got "fitted" at a running store they failed to catch this. I didn't know this until I started researching why my toe nails were all black and falling off.

That is the first time I have ever heard that and I think it is is absurd.

Maybe you always wore shoes a size too small in your lifetime.

My shoes are one size bigger than my foot measured. My foot measured exactly a 7, so I feel this makes sense, especially given how hot my area gets in the summer. Things are going to swell.

It's pretty standard practice to go up 1/2 to 1 full shoes size in running shoes. It gives your foot room to expand as it swells when running. If you haven't had this suggested to you, you've been buying shoes at the wrong place. As has been mentioned, some shoes have a bigger toe box. Even that may not be enough though if your feet are prone to activity induced swelling. As with all things, it takes a little experimenting some times to find exactly what works. I go up 1/2 a size.

I'd also like to point out that it's pretty inconsiderate to go into a store, utilize an employee's time and training to get fitted for a shoe, then leave and buy that shoe online. If everyone did that our local running stores would shut down and we'd loose the many resources they provide. Don't be a cheap jerk. Get fitted, buy a pair of shoes from the local guys. After that, you can order online. If you're buying the newest model shoes, the online savings are marginal anyway.