5k (or more) runners/shoe question

SabrinaJL

My first 5k is in a month. 6 months ago, I went to a running store and got a good pair of running shoes. I only wear them for running and only do about 20-25 miles a week. I purchased a new pair already, but haven't started using them yet. Should I start breaking the new pair in or should the 6 month old ones (well 7 at 5k time) still be good for it?

theginnyray

Less about the months, more about the mileage.
I change shoes every 500 or so miles, so try to add up how many miles you do (weekly/monthly average) and go from there.
*Edit*
Don't wear new shoes to your race, either wear your old ones (which are probly still fine), or break in the new ones now.

Sugarchef

I'd wait until after your race. That's my plan. I don't want to take a chance on something happening to my feet before then. But maybe I'm just superstitious!

Deathwithab

do a few practice runs in the old shoes if they are comfy then stick with them for the race, if not then start breaking in the new ones

xxthoroughbred

If you're not having problems now from shoe wear, I'd stick with the old ones. I usually get a little achy the first couple of times I wear new shoes until my muscles get used to them.

fteale

I just got some new ones, when my old were a year old. I started noticing I was getting knee pain when I ran which people on here suggested could mean my shoes were wearing out. Unless you have noticed a difference you should be fine in 7 month old shoes.

arc918

It isn't really about the age of the shoes, it is about the miles. I can get amount 400 - 450 miles from my shoes (YMMV).

I run out of two pairs at once (rotate every run). I have it worked out so a new pair comes in while the other pair is ~ 200 miles. That way I always have a newer pair I can race in.

Based on your mileage, I'd get that new pair started right now.

SabrinaJL

Thanks for the tips everyone! I think I'll start breaking them in now and then try both pairs out a couple days before the 5k and see which ones feel better.

DonPendergraft

I think everyone has pretty much already answered your question. I would just point out that I've found that it's virtually unnecessary to "break in" a pair of shoes now. They aren't patent leather! However, you still wouldn't dare try a new shoe the day of a race. Not because they aren't broken in, but that you may find that particular model sucks. Perhaps they make your feet hot, or hurt or blistered, or whatever. Do keep a journal with your mileage. I go by two methods: mileage and feel. Generally when I get up around 500 miles or so, my legs feel more dead than usual. I don't recover between runs as well. Or my knees start bothering me. Time for new shoes! Then all is well again. So you can't be a slave to your mileage, but it's a good metric. Good luck!

yeroc39

I would still go through a break in period because not all shoes, eventhough its the same brand and model, are the same. There can be differences between shoes....I used to work for a popular running brand.

I know its more of a one time hit to your pocketbook, but the best thing to do when you start training if you are months out, is buy 2 pairs at the same time. Break them in together. The reality is over a years time, you will still invest the same amount of money, but have less times you need to break them in. But I know that isn't always possible.

DonPendergraft

Marshall Ulrich when he ran 3K miles across America put on at least one new pair a day. He cycled through dozens of new pairs. No break-in needed. As with all things, your mileage may vary. )