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5k (or more) runners/shoe question

SabrinaJL
SabrinaJL Posts: 1,579 Member
edited October 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
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?

Replies

  • theginnyray
    theginnyray Posts: 208 Member
    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
    Sugarchef Posts: 319 Member
    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! :wink:
  • Deathwithab
    Deathwithab Posts: 462 Member
    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
    xxthoroughbred Posts: 346 Member
    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
    fteale Posts: 5,310 Member
    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
    arc918 Posts: 2,037 Member
    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
    SabrinaJL Posts: 1,579 Member
    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
    DonPendergraft Posts: 520 Member
    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
    yeroc39 Posts: 55
    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
    DonPendergraft Posts: 520 Member
    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. :o)
This discussion has been closed.