Do I really need to go to a running store and get proper run

You should go it was the best decision I ever made for my running. I used to just buy runners that were comfortable for walking that looked "cool" but when I would run it would destroy my knees. If you go get fitted at a running store and find the model that is best for you, you could always shop around online.

I would go to Fleet Feet and get fitted and then try to find that shoe cheaper... Nothing says you have to buy them there. But I would recommend wearing proper shoes no matter how little you run. Shoes only help and you can use your running shoes for 6+ months if you use them only for running (not everyday while you walk around)

Just my 2cent though.... :blushing:

Most places that are good shoe stores or athletic stores can help you get what you need. Most will offer a diagnosis of what type of shoe you should be wearing. I have an Addidas pair that are the best running shoes I have owned for around $60. Its not if you need a running shoe, it is what type of shoe you need. Support, Flat Feet, High Arch etc...

I agree. It would be a good idea. Tell the rep at Fleet Feet your budget. You can find good shoes for under $60 - you have to look harder, but you can find them. Also, you can always wait for them to go on sale. Generally in the fall when the new line comes out - the old line will drop significantly in price. IF you know what shoe you are looking for, you can better watch for sales.

:happy: For me personally its a wise investment.. my running shoes are what impact my knees and my back so I want the best coming between the pavement and those precious joints : )
I am not a die hard runner either..

definitely go to the specialty store!!!! let them fit you in a good shoe and buy it there for the first time. yes, you will probably spend $100 or maybe a little more. BUT....then, you can order that shoe online cheaper when it is time for new ones. that is what I do. and another little tidbit that I learned several years AFTER I started running..........NEVER wash your running shoes!!! it ruins the cushioning system in them.

when we first started going to races, we noticed all the serious runners on the front line had on dirty shoes. we were like, man, can't they at least wash their shoes for race day!! lol well, joke was on us!!!

Yes. If your feet are perfect and you don't ever have any knee, ankle, or hip problems, you MIGHT be able to get away with it. If you have any pronation, any knee issues, any problems at all, you need to be fitted for the right running shoes.

When I went to get fitted, I found out I had been buying sneakers in the wrong size, and without any stability, which I really needed. Once I had the information (and bought my first pair of running shoes - about $120), I was able to use that information to get shoes at a less expensive place once the first pair ran out. But I would not have been able to do as much running as I do (about 3 miles, 3-4 times a week) without that knowledge.

1. You can only be sure you are in the right shoe, if you have a proper fitting by a knowledgeable individual. Running stores provide that service.

2. You don't have to buy the shoe after the fitting. You can buy elsewhere, but I always try to buy the shoe fitted to me from the store because I want to support the "bricks and mortar" stores so they continue to exist in the future (where else would I get fitted). That said, the following years, I buy online (my best prices and service have been from roadrunner.com) and I'm more than happy to buy the old model when it's "outdated" since I already know it's the perfect shoe for me.

3. The shoe they "prescribe" you won't necessarily be more expensive than what you'd get at a sporting goods store, and in my case, EVERY TIME they have been less than what I would have picked for myself. Yup. I was dreading the announcement of the price at the conclusion of the fitting, and I was thrilled to find my perfect shoe was less than $90. I was fearing $150 plus!

4. Running shoe stores (at least in my area) do NOT charge more for the same shoes than their competition (sporting good stores, athletic shoe stores, etc.). New models of running shoes seem to follow the MSRP system pretty closely. So paying the standard full price (not more) is okay with me for the year of the fit. After that, as noted, I'll find 'em for almost half price once the new model comes out.

5. Once you're fitted, ask them if they have the same shoe in "last year's model." For example, I run in the Brooks Adrenaline. This year's model is the Adrenaline 11 ($89) but I know the shoe from last year is fundamentally the same shoe, so I asked for last year's model, and voila, out came an Adrenaline 10 for $59.

6. Be sure that the store (bricks and mortar OR online) has a return policy that lets you run in the shoes, outside, for at least a couple of weeks to ensure the fit works for you. I've tried two models of shoes that felt great in the store, but which once run on for a few miles, resulted in distinct aches and pains in my knees and hips. If I hadn't been able to return them, I would have been stuck with shoes that didn't work for me. Roadrunner.com's return policy is 90 days so look for something comparable.

Those are my tips. Good luck. Get fitted properly and enjoy running for years to come!

I agree... it's not necessary to buy running shoes from a specialty running store... BUT, some places (like the Running Company) will put you on a treadmil to video your feet as your run... it will give you some insight on what type of shoe you NEED. You don't have to purchase there... but can take the advice & purchase elsewhere.

Kohl's, Finish Line, ****s Sporting Goods, etc all have excellent shoes, of all types & price ranges. My best #1 tip is to get your shoes - whatever you choose - a half size larger than you would normally wear!! Seriously! 3-4 miles regular running can still produce blisters & bruised toenails if your shoes aren't fitting properly.

(oh, one last little thing... you can download coupons for 10% off from Finish Line's website... and can use it in stores or online. That can help if you find a pair that you like there).

Happy Shopping!

TrainerRobin gave great advice - follow it.

Oh. and Vandalay Industries lives on forever!

Go get fitted! Pronation, (under or over) can lead to so many problems. Seriously, the list is long. 3 or 4 miles is plenty of distance for a problem to pop up. If you are running 3 times a week that's 9-12 miles! PF is painful enough! If something else happens you are just going to be sidelined further and because you are on MFP, I'm guessing you don't want to be waiting around forever for results. Plus, when you have and injury it's easy to let your goal slide and get distracted. You do not HAVE to buy from the fancy shoe store, but you should have your gait analyzed by someone who knows about running and shoes. Set a budget and give yourself this gift. I have seen all the same shoes they sell at the running stores on Zappo's or other online retailers, but honestly they have always been the exact same price as at my running store. If there was a difference you have to pay shipping anyway and there goes any money you might have saved.