PLEASE tell me that the shoes make all the difference!

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StopherJJ
StopherJJ Posts: 79
in Fitness and Exercise
Okay, so I've been walking every day this week, 14.8 miles so far. However I feel that I've already hit my peak, when I try and speed up my legs and feet both start to hurt from the impact. My issue is the shoes(i'm pretty sure) I'm wearing some K-Swiss tennis shoes.

I would like them to make my walks more comfortable, prevent blisters and be able to move onto jogging/running and doing other cardio(such as Insanity in the future)

I guess My questions are as follows lol:

• If I go to our local running store on Monday and spend 100+ on a pair of "running" shoes will it be night and day difference?
• Does anyone have any suggestions on a brand?
• Are there different types? Like does 150.00 pair work better that 100.00 pair?
• What about socks? I heard they give you a pair when you buy the shoes, are they worth buying more?

Sorry for the overkill on questions, this is just a big step and I want to make sure I'm doing the right thing lol.

Replies

  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
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    The most important aspect is that the shoes fit you properly.

    There is a considerable amount of controversy surrounding the science of running shoes, the rate of injuries sustained by runners hasn't changed much over the years despite all the so-called high tech advances in shoes

    http://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/does-pronation-matter

    http://www.ucalgary.ca/news/utoday/january27-2011/shoefits

    However, my own anecdotal experience has been that when I changed brands (still the same type of shoe.....neutral cushioning) last year that I experienced shin splints and some pain in my plantar fascia and immediately switched back to my trusted brand and model.

    I'm hesitant to suggest a brand (nike, Asics, Brooks, Saucony etc all make first rate products) as each one has minor variations in things like heel width, toe box width & height etc which impact how the shoe fits your foot.

    In my opinion you will notice a difference between a $100 pair of runners and a $50 pair, less so between the $150 and $100 (and I'm cheap.....I'll buy "last year's" colour to save a buck)

    I still run in good old tube socks for my shorter runs but can honestly say that the 2 layer Wright socks I have are more comfortable on longer runs but I wouldn't pay running store prices for them ($14.95 a pair a Running Room, $8.95 a pair at Mountain Equipment Co-op, the only difference being the running room logo) but I do eleive it's worth going to a decent running shop for shoes and having them fitted properly rather than ordering something blindly from the Internet. I'm also willing to pay a little more for mys shoes from a running shop as they have other value added services like free running clinics, often organize pace bunnies for races etc etc. (I always like to think of the scuba shop analogy......good luck getting your tanks filled over the Internet :wink: )

    Take you time and try on several different brands / models - strive for the perfect fit over all else.
  • NathanFronk
    NathanFronk Posts: 137 Member
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    I'm torn. I believe in spending whatever it takes to have the proper equipment for any given activity, as it's cheaper to do it right the first time than it is to do it again.

    But at this point I don't think shoes are your problem. If you're walking and are experiencing pain it's likely your feet are not used to the exertion. Take a day off, and keep pushing through.

    That being said, at some point you'll move from walking to jogging and from jogging to moving like an all-star ping-ponger. At some point you'll need good running shoes.

    I know good running shoes aren't cheap, but hold your breath and swallow the medicine - buy good shoes. Just don't expect them to fix everything immediately.
  • LoraF83
    LoraF83 Posts: 15,694 Member
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    The most important aspect is that the shoes fit you properly.

    There is a considerable amount of controversy surrounding the science of running shoes, the rate of injuries sustained by runners hasn't changed much over the years despite all the so-called high tech advances in shoes

    http://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/does-pronation-matter

    http://www.ucalgary.ca/news/utoday/january27-2011/shoefits

    However, my own anecdotal experience has been that when I changed brands (still the same type of shoe.....neutral cushioning) last year that I experienced shin splints and some pain in my plantar fascia and immediately switched back to my trusted brand and model.

    I'm hesitant to suggest a brand (nike, Asics, Brooks, Saucony etc all make first rate products) as each one has minor variations in things like heel width, toe box width & height etc which impact how the shoe fits your foot.

    In my opinion you will notice a difference between a $100 pair of runners and a $50 pair, less so between the $150 and $100 (and I'm cheap.....I'll buy "last year's" colour to save a buck)

    I still run in good old tube socks for my shorter runs but can honestly say that the 2 layer Wright socks I have are more comfortable on longer runs but I wouldn't pay running store prices for them ($14.95 a pair a Running Room, $8.95 a pair at Mountain Equipment Co-op, the only difference being the running room logo) but I do eleive it's worth going to a decent running shop for shoes and having them fitted properly rather than ordering something blindly from the Internet. I'm also willing to pay a little more for mys shoes from a running shop as they have other value added services like free running clinics, often organize pace bunnies for races etc etc. (I always like to think of the scuba shop analogy......good luck getting your tanks filled over the Internet :wink: )

    Take you time and try on several different brands / models - strive for the perfect fit over all else.

    ^All of this. He knows what he's talking about for sure.

    Plus you might consider a foam roller or "the stick" to help ease any muscle soreness you might have. And take a rest day here and there. Rest is good for you. Make sure to stretch after your walks as well.
  • weightlossnoob
    weightlossnoob Posts: 44
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    When I first started I used regular every day sneakers and after a while (I was running) I got blisters and my ankles practically gave out. It was then when I realized that running shoes were the answer. As I was fairly new to the process, I didn't go crazy, and picked out a $60 pair. They have since worked perfectly. I definitely recommend them and my ankle issues cleared up tremendously. Now, I have no pain! (Albeit, I also developed more endurance and strength as you will too with time) As for socks, I got a pair at a Nike Outlet Store and I notice some difference when wearing them, but for most runs, I stick to regular cotton socks.

    Good luck!
  • mskristinlthomas
    mskristinlthomas Posts: 6 Member
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    Yes...I do think that shoes make all the difference. I would do my research though because everyones feet are different and one brand may not work for one person like it does another. Your basic $40-50 dollar shoes wont cut it.....this is one of those cases where you get what you pay for... you buy a lower priced shoe, it's going to be very basic and may hinder more than help your run.

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  • Jmchao
    Jmchao Posts: 27 Member
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    As others have said, while you will surely notice some difference, the shoes themselves won't make for a quick/easy fix. You'll still need to adjust as walking is different from jogging/running. I can walk for miles and miles at a time, but add a light jog to it and my calves/shins spaz out on me. It's taken me about 8 weeks to finally work through that.

    Having said that...

    Do you have a running/sports store near you? We have 2 different ones in our area, and I, personally, prefer Fleet Feet. They spent over an hour with me watching and videotaping my walk and my jog, picking out/trying on shoes, etc. Some shoes you just know the moment you put them on that they are wrong. Maybe the arch falls in the wrong spot, the toe box is too narrow, etc. Once I narrowed it down to 2-3 pairs, I put each pair on and jogged up and down the sidewalk outside the store a few times to get the feel of the cushion, how the heel fit, etc. I went with a pair from Adidas. But, as previously mentioned, there is no "perfect" brand as each has its own set of qualities/characteristics. Find what you feel best suits your needs and go from there.

    As for socks, I guess I don't run hard/far/fast enough to get blisters! I do have 1 pair of "running" socks, but I personally notice no difference between that pair and the 4 pair for $8.99 I got at a shoe store!

    Good luck on your continued success!!
  • StopherJJ
    StopherJJ Posts: 79
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    Thank You so much! I knew all it would take is asking and I would get some great information!
  • StopherJJ
    StopherJJ Posts: 79
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    I will be going to a local store called Running Central on Monday I've heard great things about them in terms that they actually make sure the shoes you buy fit your feet. I'm not sure of the specifics but there is something they make you stand on to pin point the pressure points, etc.

    I'm quite excited about it all, I don't see myself running marathons next week but every little bit that helps me push it harder and further is going to help!

    I don't know where I'd be without MFP You're all great and anyone can feel free to add me I do my best to give positive reinforcement whenever I can!
  • Doodlewhopper
    Doodlewhopper Posts: 1,018 Member
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    Okay, so I've been walking every day this week, 14.8 miles so far. However I feel that I've already hit my peak, when I try and speed up my legs and feet both start to hurt from the impact. My issue is the shoes(i'm pretty sure) I'm wearing some K-Swiss tennis shoes.

    I would like them to make my walks more comfortable, prevent blisters and be able to move onto jogging/running and doing other cardio(such as Insanity in the future)

    I guess My questions are as follows lol:

    • If I go to our local running store on Monday and spend 100+ on a pair of "running" shoes will it be night and day difference?
    • Does anyone have any suggestions on a brand?
    • Are there different types? Like does 150.00 pair work better that 100.00 pair?
    • What about socks? I heard they give you a pair when you buy the shoes, are they worth buying more?

    Sorry for the overkill on questions, this is just a big step and I want to make sure I'm doing the right thing lol.

    Walking 15 miles in a week! Congrats but with a warning....dont over do this or you will soon get an over use injury.

    You werent specific about what "speed up" is, so I will speculate that you were trying to walk fast or maybe jog...and I bet you were heel striking hard and with your head behind your feet.

    First thing I suggest is you learn proper form. Youtube has more help on this subject then you can ingest.
    https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=begining+runners&oq=begining+runners&gs_l=youtube.3...3443.6650.0.7707.16.15.0.1.1.0.150.1708.4j11.15.0...0.0...1ac.1.11.youtube.Ym4ksc9QDrM


    If youre trying to run - you want to run light and easy. Find a grassy area or other soft place to begin. Run in place and then in slow motion. Plant your feet lightly like you are stepping on egg shells and try to land either mid or forefoot, (not on the toes). Lean forward from the ankles & flex the knees until the stride becomes natural.

    If you follow these basic steps and dont over do things you will build up your feet and legs.

    Go to the running store and explain where you are in your training and if you want a shoe for walking or running, or both. These guys are generally trained and are a wealth of info. Make friends with your running store guys.

    I wouldnt spend a lot of money at this time because you will not be using these shoes for long. As your abilities progress so will your shoe needs. (I run in minimalist shoes, something akin to a ballet slipper)

    Know about the "Terrible Too's".....Too much, Too soon, Too fast.

    Need help feel free to friend me, but only if youre rude crude and obnoxious...oh, I see you are a Bears fan, you meet the criteria...lol
  • StopherJJ
    StopherJJ Posts: 79
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    Hey now, lets leave the poor Bears out of this! lol I can assume you're a Cowboys fan.... Enough said lol

    Thank You again for all of your insights! I'd be lost trying to learn all this on my own!
  • jarednuzzi
    jarednuzzi Posts: 18
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    I don't know if its always the shoe. I bought new arch support inserts and put them in my old shoes and it made a world of difference.
  • scookiemonster
    scookiemonster Posts: 175 Member
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    Yes, I do think the right shoe makes a huge difference.

    I think the problem is that the "right" shoe is extremely individual and different for each person.

    Personal Example:
    I have major trouble with shoes in general. I have very long, narrow feet, which means that most shoes just don't fit properly. On top of that, I have incredibly, annoyingly delicate skin, so I blister like crazy. Before I found my "perfect" shoe for running, I must have tried and given up on running at least 3-4 different times with different pairs of shoes, because when I say "blisters," I don't just mean little blisters - I mean the kind that make your feet look deformed, bleed, and are so painful that it's hard to stand, never mind walk or run. I even went to the specialist running shop, had them measure my feet with all different kinds of contraptions, identify the height of my arch, all that jazz... those shoes just ended up in the back of my closet.

    When I finally found the right shoe, I was absolutely at my wit's end. I genuinely thought that maybe I just wasn't "meant" for running. Then I happen to wander into my local Merrell outlet and they're selling these new "barefoot" running shoes. I think, "Hey, what the hell. Why not? Can't be worse than what I have..."

    I'm not exaggerating when I say that my first minimalist run was completely life changing. It was an absolute revelation. No blisters (for the first time ever). No pain. My feet felt light. My stride felt natural and comfortable. It was like I'd never really tried to run before.

    In the end though, my "perfect" shoe isn't going to be the right shoe for the next person. It changed my life, absolutely, no question. I now have probably at least half a dozen pairs in different styles. My husband tried the men's version and it just wasn't for him. Ultimately what really matters is what's better for YOU, and that can take a lot of time and trial and error and isn't always going to fit with the advice of others because their advice is based on what works for them. I have friends who think I'm insane for running minimalist. I tell them I think they're insane for running with those big foam blocks on their feet :-p. I don't think it's necessarily about price or brand or a particular type of socks, it's just about finding what's right for you and being patient while you figure that out.

    Good luck!
  • meggyannpt
    meggyannpt Posts: 73 Member
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    I would recommend finding a good running store near you. They can suggest good shoes for walking vs. running, and sometimes will analyze how you walk to help you find the right shoe. It's worth investing in a good pair, and then buying new ones about every 6 months or so (since they will wear out and change your mechanics when you walk).

    I would also be careful about building up too quickly. The rule for walking/running is don't increase your distance more than 10% each week. If you weren't walking before and are walking quite a bit every day, you are going to be more prone to overuse injury. Build up slow, but keep up the good work!
  • tekwriter
    tekwriter Posts: 923 Member
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    Fit is very important. I have very bad flat feet and they are also skewed. Lots of pain, in addition to needing a knee replacement. My ortho Dr. reccomended Brooks. They are expensive. He suggested running shoes, that was for the extra support. A pair usually lasts me about a year. I wear them every single day. He says it is best to have two pair and trade off each day. I have had very good luck with them.
  • Doodlewhopper
    Doodlewhopper Posts: 1,018 Member
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    Very interesting and thought provoking.

    "Runners wearing top-of-the-line trainers are 123 per cent more likely to get injured than runners in cheap ones. This was discovered as far back as 1989, according to a study led by Dr Bernard Marti, the leading preventative-medicine specialist at Switzerland's University of Bern. "

    http://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/moslive/article-1170253/The-painful-truth-trainers-Are-expensive-running-shoes-waste-money.html
  • MizTerry
    MizTerry Posts: 3,763 Member
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    I did my research and what I found was that Saucony and Brooks were the best. I went and spent the $50 for a pair of Saucony's and yes, the difference is definitely amazing.

    As someone else said, fit is important. If it's not comfy when you leave the store, don't even leave the store with them.

    Socks or no socks...socks are better, but not necessary if you prefer shoes without socks.
  • swimmchick87
    swimmchick87 Posts: 458 Member
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    I was getting terrible pain on the outside sides of my calves even walking for 15 minutes or so. I've never experienced such pain before- I was literally stopping every few steps and limping the way back home. After a lot of googling I figured out it might be that my shoes were too old. I got a new pair of higher quality shoes and it made all the difference! I am now doing more intense workouts for an hour and I have not felt that weird calf pain since wearing my new shoes. I'm so glad I figured that out, because I would not have continued exercising with the amount of pain I was in before with the old shoes.

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