The right running shoes?

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13

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  • lloydenson
    lloydenson Posts: 12
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    I went to the shop with a view to purchasing a pair of shoes. the fact is that they did not provide me with a pair that was suitable. do you really think I should of bought a pair of shoes that I was not happy with just because the sales assistant had spent some time with me?? I don't think so!

    if you spend half an hour looking at a house or a car would you feel obliged to buy that too?

    I'm just curious what type of store you went to?
    it was a high street running shop. I looked them up on the internet. don't get me wrong I am not saying they selected the wrong shoe type. it was just that the models that they brought out for me to try on, I either did not like the style of them or they were too expensive. I was slightly disappointed because I had gone to a running shoe specialists and it seemed that they had limited stock when it come to shoe selection, they only gave me a choice of 5 shoes in total.
  • 2moonNback
    2moonNback Posts: 61 Member
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    My advice is, yes do go to a specialist running shoe shop but don't feel obliged to buy from them!!!

    I see this a little differently.

    Proper gait analysis takes time and expertise. If you have taken advantage of that service then expect to pay for it.

    Many running shops are now starting to charge for gait analysis because people do exactly what you do, get the free advice and go buy them on ebay or wherever cheaper.

    What will happen over time is that all running shops will start charging for gait analysis. Also many small local running shops are closing down because they can no longer compete with large online retailers. The running community will be worse off for the loss of expertise.

    Once you know what shoe you need by all means buy it wherever it suits, but once you've taken up staff time for their knowledge and expertise, at least have the courtesy to give them the trade.

    I totally agree! I am new to running, I was running in my el cheapo Nike's and having some serious calf pain in my left calf. This weekend I went for the first time to the running store for the gait analysis, and bless the young lady who helped me try on all of the shoes and run in them (a couple of them several times). I left the store with the an amazing pair of shoes. Yes they are very expensive but they are worth every penny. The level of customer service I received was beyond amazing, she showed me stretches I hadn't thought of and her patience while I found the shoes that were right for me makes it worth going and spending that kind of money. I would highly recommend it. I ran for the first time in my new shoes last night and my calf didn't bother me a bit!
  • marywilsoncline
    marywilsoncline Posts: 301 Member
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    I recommend New Balance running shoes. I was running in Nike brand until I bought my New Balance designed specifically for running. My feet and legs love 'em :love:
  • soymilkcoffee
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    I agree with all the above about going to a specialized running store.
    For me, I love my Vibram Five Finger shoes. :) I feel like I can run forever in them!!
  • ChristinaBarnhouse
    ChristinaBarnhouse Posts: 274 Member
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    It's funny you posted this because just last night I bought new running shoes. I started running almost a year ago and have always worn Nike's because they felt OK and I could always find a pair I liked on sale for under $50 or so. A few months ago I have gotten more serious about running and have started doing 5K's and I love it! I like to read Runner's World magazine and other blogs on running and read the same thing over and over... The most important thing you need when running is a good pair of running shoes. So I decided to look into getting a better pair.

    I went to a store called Active Runner where they specialize in analyzing your foot type and helping you select the shoe that is right for you. I found out that I have excessive supination, also called underpronation, and the shoe I was wearing was not the right fit for me. He had me try on several pair and I ran on the store's treadmill until I found my perfect match. I was amazed at what a difference the shoes made. I purchased the Muzino Wave Rider 15 for $119.00. I never thought I would spend that much for shoes, but it's definitely worth it!

    I suggest going to a store that specializes in running shoes and get your foot properly measured and take your time. Only you can find the shoe that's right for you. Yes, it may be a little pricy, but if you're serious about running, it will definitely be well worth it! Best of luck!! :)
  • MFPBrandy
    MFPBrandy Posts: 564 Member
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    I second this -- when I live somewhere near a pro running store (and don't worry about not being a pro; they don't care), I'll go in and have them do their thing. Be prepared to run in front of them, and to have them handle your feet. Then they'll suggest a few different kinds of shoes, and have you go run in them a bit. Ultimately it comes down to what feels best.
    If I'm not near one of those stores, and the shoe I currently have is no longer available (happens all too frequently), I'll usually end up with Asics, because they're cushiony, and have several models with arch support and wide toe beds (without being a wide foot). That's what works for me.

    *edit* Oh, and one more thing -- I hate running. I do it for work (or did, before my back injury). The people at the stores I've been to have all been runners first, salespeople second -- they're not out to sell you the highest-priced shoe they can, so be up-front about any price limitations.
  • reggie2run
    reggie2run Posts: 477 Member
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    I would recommend that you go into a specialist running store and get your feet maesure and your gait analysed. Then try on some shoes. I like Asics; I have a neutral gait.

    Exactly, except I wear Soucony running sneakers....always have....right now I have the Omni 9s.
    But looking at the Glide 5s...been told they are very similiar.
  • spartangirl79
    spartangirl79 Posts: 277 Member
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    I went to the shop with a view to purchasing a pair of shoes. the fact is that they did not provide me with a pair that was suitable. do you really think I should of bought a pair of shoes that I was not happy with just because the sales assistant had spent some time with me?? I don't think so!

    if you spend half an hour looking at a house or a car would you feel obliged to buy that too?

    I'm just curious what type of store you went to?
    it was a high street running shop. I looked them up on the internet. don't get me wrong I am not saying they selected the wrong shoe type. it was just that the models that they brought out for me to try on, I either did not like the style of them or they were too expensive. I was slightly disappointed because I had gone to a running shoe specialists and it seemed that they had limited stock when it come to shoe selection, they only gave me a choice of 5 shoes in total.

    Well... I'd rather have feet and knees that didn't hurt than the most beautiful shoes I've ever seen. And you really do get what you pay for in terms of running shoes. If you go buy some crap at Kohl's, just because it's Asics or New Balance doesn't mean it's quality. They have lower end models and that's what you'll get there for BOGO or $45. Harsh reality.
  • TheDudette
    TheDudette Posts: 174
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    I went to the shop with a view to purchasing a pair of shoes. the fact is that they did not provide me with a pair that was suitable. do you really think I should of bought a pair of shoes that I was not happy with just because the sales assistant had spent some time with me?? I don't think so!

    if you spend half an hour looking at a house or a car would you feel obliged to buy that too?

    I'm just curious what type of store you went to?
    it was a high street running shop. I looked them up on the internet. don't get me wrong I am not saying they selected the wrong shoe type. it was just that the models that they brought out for me to try on, I either did not like the style of them or they were too expensive. I was slightly disappointed because I had gone to a running shoe specialists and it seemed that they had limited stock when it come to shoe selection, they only gave me a choice of 5 shoes in total.

    Well... I'd rather have feet and knees that didn't hurt than the most beautiful shoes I've ever seen. And you really do get what you pay for in terms of running shoes. If you go buy some crap at Kohl's, just because it's Asics or New Balance doesn't mean it's quality. They have lower end models and that's what you'll get there for BOGO or $45. Harsh reality.

    True that girl! Well said.

    If you want a pair of sneakers for fashion than why were you getting fitted? If you want to run properly without pain, who the hell cares what your shoe looks like? Sounds like someone went for the wrong reasons. These places don't expect people to come in to get a "cool new pair of kicks" they are open for people who are serious about their well-being while improving their athletic ability. With all do respect, please don't knock the store. They had a pair of shoes that was right for you, you just didn't like the way they looked, which is not their problem.

    FYI my sneakers are not pretty and I would never wear them other than when I am exercising, but they feel amazing and make me run better so I don't give a hoot.
  • Dangerdede22
    Dangerdede22 Posts: 33 Member
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    My wife and I were recently in a sporting store to get a pair of running shoes. She was told the best running shoes out there were a brand named, Brooks. I'm not really all that knowledgeable about shoes, but they looked like they would have alot of support.

    And "support" is NOT what you want if you're a neutral runner.

    Way to just jump on someone, sorry the world is not as knowledgeable as you when it comes to running shoes.. Thought we were here to help each other....
  • lloydenson
    lloydenson Posts: 12
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    I went to the shop with a view to purchasing a pair of shoes. the fact is that they did not provide me with a pair that was suitable. do you really think I should of bought a pair of shoes that I was not happy with just because the sales assistant had spent some time with me?? I don't think so!

    if you spend half an hour looking at a house or a car would you feel obliged to buy that too?

    I'm just curious what type of store you went to?
    it was a high street running shop. I looked them up on the internet. don't get me wrong I am not saying they selected the wrong shoe type. it was just that the models that they brought out for me to try on, I either did not like the style of them or they were too expensive. I was slightly disappointed because I had gone to a running shoe specialists and it seemed that they had limited stock when it come to shoe selection, they only gave me a choice of 5 shoes in total.

    Well... I'd rather have feet and knees that didn't hurt than the most beautiful shoes I've ever seen. And you really do get what you pay for in terms of running shoes. If you go buy some crap at Kohl's, just because it's Asics or New Balance doesn't mean it's quality. They have lower end models and that's what you'll get there for BOGO or $45. Harsh reality.

    True that girl! Well said.

    If you want a pair of sneakers for fashion than why were you getting fitted? If you want to run properly without pain, who the hell cares what your shoe looks like? Sounds like someone went for the wrong reasons. These places don't expect people to come in to get a "cool new pair of kicks" they are open for people who are serious about their well-being while improving their athletic ability. With all do respect, please don't knock the store. They had a pair of shoes that was right for you, you just didn't like the way they looked, which is not their problem.

    FYI my sneakers are not pretty and I would never wear them other than when I am exercising, but they feel amazing and make me run better so I don't give a hoot.

    I merely stated that they did not offer me a product I was interested in buying so I went elsewhere!! TheDudette, you say the only people that should go to these shops are "people who are serious about their well-being while improving their athletic ability" well I stated to the shopkeeper that I only wanted a pair for going the gym and doing 5k runs. it’s not like I said I wanted Pro shoes. maybe at that point he should of stopped me and said. this shop is not suitable for you. but they didn't. they proceed to try and sell me trainers that I was not interested in.
    I did not go to the shop just to get flashy trainers as I already have out of gym shoes! the reason I didn't like the style was because I felt I would of stood out wearing them in the gym that I go to, not because I wanted to make a fashion statement.

    Because a sales person spent 1/2 an hour with me, I don’t think should feel obliged to buy a pair of trainers that I don’t like, are over my budget and would make me feel uncomfortable if I wore them in the gym. I mean, as if anyone in there right mind would do that?? Not at any point of the consolation did they tell me that I had to buy from them. So, I reserved the right to shop elsewhere and that’s what I did for a fraction of the price.
  • SandraFernanda
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  • robinhardysmall
    robinhardysmall Posts: 246 Member
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    The best athletic shoes I ever bought was from a small athletic store here in my town that focuses on runners- I will never ever ever go to a big name store again to buy shoes~ get someone to look at your gait, running & walking..look at your current shoes how you wear them~ that all plays into it...
  • PandaHerber
    PandaHerber Posts: 43 Member
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    Def get checked on to know how you run. Be careful of some stores because some people don't seem as knowledgeable as others. So ask around. With that said, don't be afraid to try out a few kinds. I've recently changed to a minimalist shoe (Brooks) in their pure line and I love them. While technically based on how I was running, they said I needed a more supportive shoe, I actually found that going to the lighter minimalist shoe, my stride completely changed and I hurt less. I'm training for my first half marathon now and I switch out between the pure flow and the pure connect. Both are only $90. Don't forget good socks. I found that was key to getting everything to work well together. I also trail run and love my saloman XTs but I hear the brooks pure grit is good too for that!
    Good luck and glad to have another runner!
  • ashlinmarie
    ashlinmarie Posts: 1,263 Member
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    I went to the shop with a view to purchasing a pair of shoes. the fact is that they did not provide me with a pair that was suitable. do you really think I should of bought a pair of shoes that I was not happy with just because the sales assistant had spent some time with me?? I don't think so!

    if you spend half an hour looking at a house or a car would you feel obliged to buy that too?

    I'm just curious what type of store you went to?
    it was a high street running shop. I looked them up on the internet. don't get me wrong I am not saying they selected the wrong shoe type. it was just that the models that they brought out for me to try on, I either did not like the style of them or they were too expensive. I was slightly disappointed because I had gone to a running shoe specialists and it seemed that they had limited stock when it come to shoe selection, they only gave me a choice of 5 shoes in total.

    Well... I'd rather have feet and knees that didn't hurt than the most beautiful shoes I've ever seen. And you really do get what you pay for in terms of running shoes. If you go buy some crap at Kohl's, just because it's Asics or New Balance doesn't mean it's quality. They have lower end models and that's what you'll get there for BOGO or $45. Harsh reality.

    True that girl! Well said.

    If you want a pair of sneakers for fashion than why were you getting fitted? If you want to run properly without pain, who the hell cares what your shoe looks like? Sounds like someone went for the wrong reasons. These places don't expect people to come in to get a "cool new pair of kicks" they are open for people who are serious about their well-being while improving their athletic ability. With all do respect, please don't knock the store. They had a pair of shoes that was right for you, you just didn't like the way they looked, which is not their problem.

    FYI my sneakers are not pretty and I would never wear them other than when I am exercising, but they feel amazing and make me run better so I don't give a hoot.

    I merely stated that they did not offer me a product I was interested in buying so I went elsewhere!! TheDudette, you say the only people that should go to these shops are "people who are serious about their well-being while improving their athletic ability" well I stated to the shopkeeper that I only wanted a pair for going the gym and doing 5k runs. it’s not like I said I wanted Pro shoes. maybe at that point he should of stopped me and said. this shop is not suitable for you. but they didn't. they proceed to try and sell me trainers that I was not interested in.
    I did not go to the shop just to get flashy trainers as I already have out of gym shoes! the reason I didn't like the style was because I felt I would of stood out wearing them in the gym that I go to, not because I wanted to make a fashion statement.

    Because a sales person spent 1/2 an hour with me, I don’t think should feel obliged to buy a pair of trainers that I don’t like, are over my budget and would make me feel uncomfortable if I wore them in the gym. I mean, as if anyone in there right mind would do that?? Not at any point of the consolation did they tell me that I had to buy from them. So, I reserved the right to shop elsewhere and that’s what I did for a fraction of the price.

    Did you let them know you were on a budget? I went to a local running shoe store and told them I couldn't spend more than $150. I knew I'd probably have to pay more because I'm flat footed and needed support in my ankles. He only brought out shoes in my budget and asked me to try on one of different pairs so I could get a feel for what I liked. I ended up paying 113 with tax and it was so worth it. They are ugly shoes and they don't match anything, but I love them and it was definitely worth the 113$ rather than risking injuring my knee or ankle and paying hundreds if not thousands.
  • Brengild
    Brengild Posts: 127
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    I agree proper analysis is best. I found out the hard way(injury) that I over-pronate and needed a shoe for that , and I need a wider toe box(lost a toe nail, which I found out isnt uncommon!). I now know to buy a stability shoe from Saucony. Thats how I found out MY best shoe. I dont recommend doing it that way!
  • lloydenson
    lloydenson Posts: 12
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    I went to the shop with a view to purchasing a pair of shoes. the fact is that they did not provide me with a pair that was suitable. do you really think I should of bought a pair of shoes that I was not happy with just because the sales assistant had spent some time with me?? I don't think so!

    if you spend half an hour looking at a house or a car would you feel obliged to buy that too?

    I'm just curious what type of store you went to?
    it was a high street running shop. I looked them up on the internet. don't get me wrong I am not saying they selected the wrong shoe type. it was just that the models that they brought out for me to try on, I either did not like the style of them or they were too expensive. I was slightly disappointed because I had gone to a running shoe specialists and it seemed that they had limited stock when it come to shoe selection, they only gave me a choice of 5 shoes in total.

    Well... I'd rather have feet and knees that didn't hurt than the most beautiful shoes I've ever seen. And you really do get what you pay for in terms of running shoes. If you go buy some crap at Kohl's, just because it's Asics or New Balance doesn't mean it's quality. They have lower end models and that's what you'll get there for BOGO or $45. Harsh reality.

    True that girl! Well said.

    If you want a pair of sneakers for fashion than why were you getting fitted? If you want to run properly without pain, who the hell cares what your shoe looks like? Sounds like someone went for the wrong reasons. These places don't expect people to come in to get a "cool new pair of kicks" they are open for people who are serious about their well-being while improving their athletic ability. With all do respect, please don't knock the store. They had a pair of shoes that was right for you, you just didn't like the way they looked, which is not their problem.

    FYI my sneakers are not pretty and I would never wear them other than when I am exercising, but they feel amazing and make me run better so I don't give a hoot.

    I merely stated that they did not offer me a product I was interested in buying so I went elsewhere!! TheDudette, you say the only people that should go to these shops are "people who are serious about their well-being while improving their athletic ability" well I stated to the shopkeeper that I only wanted a pair for going the gym and doing 5k runs. it’s not like I said I wanted Pro shoes. maybe at that point he should of stopped me and said. this shop is not suitable for you. but they didn't. they proceed to try and sell me trainers that I was not interested in.
    I did not go to the shop just to get flashy trainers as I already have out of gym shoes! the reason I didn't like the style was because I felt I would of stood out wearing them in the gym that I go to, not because I wanted to make a fashion statement.

    Because a sales person spent 1/2 an hour with me, I don’t think should feel obliged to buy a pair of trainers that I don’t like, are over my budget and would make me feel uncomfortable if I wore them in the gym. I mean, as if anyone in there right mind would do that?? Not at any point of the consolation did they tell me that I had to buy from them. So, I reserved the right to shop elsewhere and that’s what I did for a fraction of the price.

    Did you let them know you were on a budget? I went to a local running shoe store and told them I couldn't spend more than $150. I knew I'd probably have to pay more because I'm flat footed and needed support in my ankles. He only brought out shoes in my budget and asked me to try on one of different pairs so I could get a feel for what I liked. I ended up paying 113 with tax and it was so worth it. They are ugly shoes and they don't match anything, but I love them and it was definitely worth the 113$ rather than risking injuring my knee or ankle and paying hundreds if not thousands.

    I did not tell them my budget and they did not ask. I have never been to a running shop so I was unaware how much running shoes would cost. If they had told me what the potential price range before consultation. I would of asked them if they would be able to analysed my running and I would of gladly paid for the privilege, but they did neither. I then found myself in a situation, so I decided to leave it and have a look in a few other shops.

    I think it’s a bit extreme to say I am risking injury by not buying from a specialist. I know what type of shoe is suitable for me and I bought the right type in another store but at a lower price. I know it might seem like I am being a bit vein but I am not. no one else wears trainers like there ones I was offered in my gym. I have struggled with having the confidence to go to a gym in the past but I am starting to get over that now. I did not want to take the chance of being mocked!! Then not wanting to wear them.
  • Im_NotPerfect
    Im_NotPerfect Posts: 2,181 Member
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    Definately go and get fitted.

    I have Saucony Omni 10's and absolutely LOVE them!
  • susjan
    susjan Posts: 105
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    My advice is, yes do go to a specialist running shoe shop but don't feel obliged to buy from them!!!

    I see this a little differently.

    Proper gait analysis takes time and expertise. If you have taken advantage of that service then expect to pay for it.

    Many running shops are now starting to charge for gait analysis because people do exactly what you do, get the free advice and go buy them on ebay or wherever cheaper.

    What will happen over time is that all running shops will start charging for gait analysis. Also many small local running shops are closing down because they can no longer compete with large online retailers. The running community will be worse off for the loss of expertise.

    Once you know what shoe you need by all means buy it wherever it suits, but once you've taken up staff time for their knowledge and expertise, at least have the courtesy to give them the trade.

    I agree completely. I'm always looking for a bargain but this was one area where I knew I wanted "the best" for me. The small running store I went, I was able to go out in the parking lot for a 'whirl' (his words, not mine) with every pair I tried on if I wanted. After about 20 pairs, I found the best one that worked for me. Happened to be Asics and because I bought from him, he gave me a percentage off.
  • dare2love81
    dare2love81 Posts: 928 Member
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    Brooks. Hands down. They offer multiple styles and different levels of support to fit any gait. And their quality can't be beat.

    But, having said that, go get your gait analyzed first, don't just guess.