Need new workout shoes...any suggestions?

I have a pair of Nike Shocks that I workout in, but within the past week (I just started back working out...again) I have gotten a blister on my left foot and it really hurts. So...I'm thinking I need new shoes. But where do I start? Does anyone have any shoes that they particularly love that you would suggest for me??

Replies

  • Testosterone
    Testosterone Posts: 236 Member
    nike shox are the worst shoes there are. asics flat gels or vibram five fingers are the best workout shoes. you want minimal padding on the shoe. padded shoes mess up your stride and your body mechanics.
  • sz8soon
    sz8soon Posts: 816 Member
    Most important thing to remember when buying workout/running shoes---- FUNCTION over fashion!!! Don't buy these shoes just becuase they are cute- make sure you are buying the most appropriate shoe for you! There are a million different styles and fits- take the time to find the right one for you.

    Second thing most people don't think of- buy your work out shoes at least 1/2 size bigger than a normal street shoe. People tend to wear thicker socks anyway when in tennis shoes, add that to the foot swelling that takes place during a normal workout or at the end of the day and end up with shoes that will give you a multitude of problems, blisters, foot pain, bunions, etc.
  • aminahzjohnson
    aminahzjohnson Posts: 30 Member
    nike shox are the worst shoes there are. asics flat gels or vibram five fingers are the best workout shoes. you want minimal padding on the shoe. padded shoes mess up your stride and your body mechanics.

    Okay, thanks!
  • aminahzjohnson
    aminahzjohnson Posts: 30 Member
    Most important thing to remember when buying workout/running shoes---- FUNCTION over fashion!!! Don't buy these shoes just becuase they are cute- make sure you are buying the most appropriate shoe for you! There are a million different styles and fits- take the time to find the right one for you.

    Second thing most people don't think of- buy your work out shoes at least 1/2 size bigger than a normal street shoe. People tend to wear thicker socks anyway when in tennis shoes, add that to the foot swelling that takes place during a normal workout or at the end of the day and end up with shoes that will give you a multitude of problems, blisters, foot pain, bunions, etc.

    Okay, thanks for the input!
  • tara7302011
    tara7302011 Posts: 89 Member
    I love my sketcher tone ups!!
  • sjohnny
    sjohnny Posts: 56,142 Member
    What kind of workout?
  • bprague
    bprague Posts: 564 Member
    mmm, I love my vibrams. Just a suggestion- don't jump to a minimalist shoe all at once if you are seduced by the idea. You can get some nasty injuries from your body being used to a shoe with an inch + heel.

    I'd stay away from the so-called toning shoes. There is really no research in support of their claims to firm up your tushy and legs. Anyway, you're working out so don't you want to feel balanced and comfortable?

    I have some cheap new balance shoes without a heel lift that i use at the gym, but for running, I go bare or use the vibrams.

    Just a thought: if you are getting blisters, it might be more to do with your socks. Try moisture-wicking materials (not cotton). These should prevent blisters.
  • brandyk77
    brandyk77 Posts: 605 Member
    what exactly are you doing for your workout?

    I like my nike frees for lifting (non impact stuff). I have fitted running specific shoes.

    Nike shox are over priced and underperforming shoes for sure.
  • I got Reebok Real Flex shoes last year for running and I love them! They didn't even need time to get broken in, they were comfortable from day one....no blisters!
  • if you want a minimal support shoe but don't think the 5 finger vibrams are for you- the New Balance Minimus has the same technology but in a show shape. I bought a pair and LOVE them. I wear them everywhere now. everyone else is right too :)
  • MostlyWater
    MostlyWater Posts: 4,294 Member
    If you take exercise classes, you need cross trainers, as they support both front to back motion and back to front motion. Running shoes are only for front to back motion. And you can't wear them forever, either. You need to replace them every few months.

    I buy on shoebuy.com or zappos.
  • tageekly
    tageekly Posts: 3,755 Member
    Definitely check your socks - I got the moisture-wicking socks and am much more comfortable than when I was wearing cotton.

    Somewhat off-topic but not really since it might help the OP too:
    I need new cross trainers too - where is the best place to get fitted for them? I don't think a running store is appropriate because I don't use them for running... and I'm not sure the stores in the mall have employees that are educated in the best shoes for each person and/or activity.
  • chrystee
    chrystee Posts: 295 Member

    I'd stay away from the so-called toning shoes. There is really no research in support of their claims to firm up your tushy and legs. Anyway, you're working out so don't you want to feel balanced and comfortable?

    Also, just saw an article that said not to "workout" in toning shoes.. A lot of ankle/foot injuries.
  • RunHardBeStrong
    RunHardBeStrong Posts: 33,069 Member
    I love my Saucony's for lifting/cross training and Under Armour running shoes for running. The UA's have minimal but just enough cushion to allow a natural foot strike and also makes them super lightweight!
  • aminahzjohnson
    aminahzjohnson Posts: 30 Member
    What kind of workout?

    Walking and Running
  • aminahzjohnson
    aminahzjohnson Posts: 30 Member
    I love my Saucony's for lifting/cross training and Under Armour running shoes for running. The UA's have minimal but just enough cushion to allow a natural foot strike and also makes them super lightweight!

    Thanks!
  • aminahzjohnson
    aminahzjohnson Posts: 30 Member
    Definitely check your socks - I got the moisture-wicking socks and am much more comfortable than when I was wearing cotton.

    Great Idea!


    Somewhat off-topic but not really since it might help the OP too:
    I need new cross trainers too - where is the best place to get fitted for them? I don't think a running store is appropriate because I don't use them for running... and I'm not sure the stores in the mall have employees that are educated in the best shoes for each person and/or activity.

    I plan to go to Foot Action
  • babyblues31
    babyblues31 Posts: 72 Member
    I am a runner and Asics are the only ones for me personally. I have tried several others and I would not wear anything else now! I have low arches and a pronation. I wear the 2160. Not the flashiest looking shoes but function over fashion definitely!!!
  • Tanya_IP
    Tanya_IP Posts: 62 Member
    i loooooove my kswiss tubes
  • Meaganandcheese
    Meaganandcheese Posts: 525 Member
    I would go to a running store and have your foot fitted. They can recommend the best option for your arch/support etc.

    I like Aisics for running and Nike Frees for cross-training, fwiw, but you might need something else.
  • britexmom
    britexmom Posts: 145
    you will be better to go to a small independant sports shop to get fitted for shoes rather than an national chain in the mall.
  • _canuckrunner_
    _canuckrunner_ Posts: 364 Member
    The reality is that everyone's feet are different. Would agree with others and go to an independent sports/running store and get properly fit once in your life. Then you know and can make future purchases on-line or in large chain stores. Its definitely worth it!