How do I know if it's time for new running shoes?
PeachyPlum
Posts: 1,243 Member
So, I'm getting back into running by doing Couch to 5k again. My heart and lungs are super stoked and all "oh yeah we remember how to do this, let's go!"
My legs and feet are all "are you kidding me with this *kitten*?"
I didn't have this problem the last time around... Two years ago. I was fitted at Fleet Feet and came home with shoes I loved, never had an ache or pain at all.
Now my shins start hurting while I'm doing my warm-up walk, and don't stop till the workout is over (no lasting pain so far). The bottoms of the balls of my feet are hurting, they feel almost bruised.
I'm pretty sure these shoes don't have the recommended 300 - 450 miles on them, although I lost my mileage log when my smartphone gave up the ghost.
I really don't want new shoes, as it's not in the budget, plus I adored these shoes when I first got them and Asics discontinued this series, so I'll have to switch to something else.
Thoughts? Could my form have deteriorated badly, causing the pain? Is there a clue based on visual inspection that should tell me the shoes have run far enough?
My legs and feet are all "are you kidding me with this *kitten*?"
I didn't have this problem the last time around... Two years ago. I was fitted at Fleet Feet and came home with shoes I loved, never had an ache or pain at all.
Now my shins start hurting while I'm doing my warm-up walk, and don't stop till the workout is over (no lasting pain so far). The bottoms of the balls of my feet are hurting, they feel almost bruised.
I'm pretty sure these shoes don't have the recommended 300 - 450 miles on them, although I lost my mileage log when my smartphone gave up the ghost.
I really don't want new shoes, as it's not in the budget, plus I adored these shoes when I first got them and Asics discontinued this series, so I'll have to switch to something else.
Thoughts? Could my form have deteriorated badly, causing the pain? Is there a clue based on visual inspection that should tell me the shoes have run far enough?
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Replies
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2 years it is probably time for new shoes. Do they have a wear pattern on the bottom? less shock absorption? I usually switch my worn out running shoes to casual and walking shoes and keep a good pair for running.0
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When in doubt, you probably need new shoes.
Your feet will thank you!!0 -
I guess it depends on how many miles you put on them per week (on average) and if you've ran consistently for the last two years. But unfortunately, it probably is time for a new pair of shoes if you're having so much discomfort with the ones you have. You could give it a couple more runs maybe to see if it's just your body getting back into the swing of things, but if your feet/shins don't improve in 1-2 runs, I'd recommend shopping around. (Personally though, I'd put the shoes on the retirement shelf ASAP with so many problems from the get go!)
How long ago did Asics discontinue your shoe? You may still be able to find new ones on clearance on places like running warehouse.0 -
Are you running on a different surface than you did before? Starting out faster?
Could just be the shoes - I go by how worn my tread is, and how the legs and feet feel more than by mileage, which can be different from shoe to shoe in my experience.
I would also recommend looking for the discontinued shoe online - you can often find them on Amazon or other sites, and for pretty good bargains.0 -
You sound like you need new shoes! Make it work in your budget, it's worth it!0
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Thanks everyone, sounds like I know what I'm doing on my day off!
I'm looking closer at my shoes, and although I still have some "tread" left I notice now that the structural integrity of the sole appears to be compromised - the midsole is flexing quite a bit, allowing the inner and outer sides of the outsole to move independently of one another, especially in the area where my metatarsals are bothering me.
Never really thought about it, but I do run on possibly the worst surface ever for shoe wear - extremely coarse asphalt (the kind that gives you wicked road rash when your running partner smells a rabbit and trips you with his leash).
Couldn't hurt to head to Fleet Feet and pick out my next pair of shoes to rotate in. If I don't experience the pain with the new ones, I'll know it's time to retire the old guys.0 -
You know when there is no sole between your feet and the ground
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I blew out the sides of my shoes.... That's how I knew.0
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I was told that if you press on the ball of the runner and it feels somewhat spongy then it is time for new shoes. Also they recommend new shoes every six months or 400 - 500 miles. Treat yourself to new shoes...your feet will thank you for it and you will enjoy your run so much more.0
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Three years after my shoes took the worst (climbing hills, hundreds of runs, trekking through waters and muddy lands, etc etc), it only took one puppy to destroy them. Or just the right foot!. So yes, that's how I knew.
And I think it's time for you to purchase new ones! :P0 -
PeachyPlum wrote: »Two years ago.
...
Now my shins start hurting while I'm doing my warm-up walk, and don't stop till the workout is over (no lasting pain so far). The bottoms of the balls of my feet are hurting, they feel almost bruised.
Time for new shoes
No-brainer really
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I replace shoes at the first sign of unusual discomfort while running or when I see the midsole start getting wrinkly.0
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if you love the shoes but they've been discontinued, check eBay. Chances are you'll find them, new condition and quite probably cheaper than they were new in the store. I get fitted once a year(ish) and then buy new pairs on eBay as needed for roughly 2/3 the price in stores.0
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I get fitted once a year(ish) and then buy new pairs on eBay as needed for roughly 2/3 the price in stores.
I'd personally encourage someone making use of the fitting service then actually use the place that's provided the service. Unless of course the shop charge for the fitting service as a separate item, then offset against purchase.
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PeachyPlum wrote: »So, I'm getting back into running by doing Couch to 5k again. My heart and lungs are super stoked and all "oh yeah we remember how to do this, let's go!"
My legs and feet are all "are you kidding me with this *kitten*?"
I didn't have this problem the last time around... Two years ago. I was fitted at Fleet Feet and came home with shoes I loved, never had an ache or pain at all.
Now my shins start hurting while I'm doing my warm-up walk, and don't stop till the workout is over (no lasting pain so far). The bottoms of the balls of my feet are hurting, they feel almost bruised.
I'm pretty sure these shoes don't have the recommended 300 - 450 miles on them, although I lost my mileage log when my smartphone gave up the ghost.
I really don't want new shoes, as it's not in the budget, plus I adored these shoes when I first got them and Asics discontinued this series, so I'll have to switch to something else.
Thoughts? Could my form have deteriorated badly, causing the pain? Is there a clue based on visual inspection that should tell me the shoes have run far enough?
Try the 5 fingers, I heard good stuff about them :P0 -
PeachyPlum wrote: »So, I'm getting back into running by doing Couch to 5k again. My heart and lungs are super stoked and all "oh yeah we remember how to do this, let's go!"
My legs and feet are all "are you kidding me with this *kitten*?"
I didn't have this problem the last time around... Two years ago. I was fitted at Fleet Feet and came home with shoes I loved, never had an ache or pain at all.
Now my shins start hurting while I'm doing my warm-up walk, and don't stop till the workout is over (no lasting pain so far). The bottoms of the balls of my feet are hurting, they feel almost bruised.
I'm pretty sure these shoes don't have the recommended 300 - 450 miles on them, although I lost my mileage log when my smartphone gave up the ghost.
I really don't want new shoes, as it's not in the budget, plus I adored these shoes when I first got them and Asics discontinued this series, so I'll have to switch to something else.
Thoughts? Could my form have deteriorated badly, causing the pain? Is there a clue based on visual inspection that should tell me the shoes have run far enough?
are u doing a good warm up and cool down ? I wasn't in the beggining and I f***ed up my knee...0 -
MeanderingMammal wrote: »I get fitted once a year(ish) and then buy new pairs on eBay as needed for roughly 2/3 the price in stores.
I'd personally encourage someone making use of the fitting service then actually use the place that's provided the service. Unless of course the shop charge for the fitting service as a separate item, then offset against purchase.
Well, my original plan with the existing shoes was to purchase that pair at the running store, then purchase future identical pairs from the web.
It's a moot point though. The shoe has been discontinued so long and I'm such an unusual size that I haven't been able to find a replacement at any online source.
It's been three years since the original fitting, so I could probably do with being re-fitted anyway.0 -
PeachyPlum wrote: »Well, my original plan with the existing shoes was to purchase that pair at the running store, then purchase future identical pairs from the web.
That's my approach. Pretty parasitic to do otherwise IMHO.
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A couple of other suggestion which I get from runners when my knee was hurting : 1 ) visit orthopedist 2) eat more avocado 3) rest until it stops hurting 4) the earlier u do something about it the less u have to rest 5) elastic bandage and Perskindol befor running 6) Deep Relief 7) it could be a pinched nerve in your back or your running technic might be wrong 8) you could be flat-footed 9)orthopedic insoles, don't run down hill do- running on sand, interval running,running up hill, exercise on place for legs and back-jumping squats,burpees,lunges0
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Katerina9408 wrote: »A couple of other suggestion which I get from runners when my knee was hurting : 1 ) visit orthopedist 2) eat more avocado 3) rest until it stops hurting 4) the earlier u do something about it the less u have to rest 5) elastic bandage and Perskindol befor running 6) Deep Relief 7) it could be a pinched nerve in your back or your running technic might be wrong 8) you could be flat-footed 9)orthopedic insoles, don't run down hill do- running on sand, interval running,running up hill, exercise on place for legs and back-jumping squats,burpees,lunges
that is from ppl running marathons and ultramarathons0 -
How do you know if it's time? If they are making your feet hurt! There is rule of thumb of 350 miles but I have been able to get over 2000 miles on a few pairs of shoes. If your biomechanics are good and you wear low heeled neutral shoes you can just about use them until your feet are sticking out.0
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Also in addition of buying new running shoes do some cross training ( joga, swimming,cycling)0
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Even if you aren't using your running shoes, the rubber can degrade over time. It sounds like you bought them 2 to 3 years ago - it is time for new. Also, are you trying to pick up where you left off? I suspect you may also be trying to do too much right away. Even though your lungs remember, your legs and feet need to adjust.
I
my vibrams, but I do not run in them. I tried, but I weigh too much and the transition to running in them was too hard on my calves, shins, etc. 0 -
YOU are training again and you're going to stick with it ! before you know it, you'll be a marathon runner! Buy new shoes.... maybe not cause you NEED them but because YOU DESERVE IT!0
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scraver2003 wrote: »Even if you aren't using your running shoes, the rubber can degrade over time. It sounds like you bought them 2 to 3 years ago - it is time for new. Also, are you trying to pick up where you left off? I suspect you may also be trying to do too much right away. Even though your lungs remember, your legs and feet need to adjust.
I my vibrams, but I do not run in them. I tried, but I weigh too much and the transition to running in them was too hard on my calves, shins, etc.
Not picking up where I left off - I started completely over with Couch to 5k, week one day one. Running every other day and I've stuck to the program even when I felt I was capable of skipping ahead.
I'm a heavy forefoot striker - I can't even imagine trying to run in Vibrams.0 -
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MeanderingMammal wrote: »PeachyPlum wrote: »Well, my original plan with the existing shoes was to purchase that pair at the running store, then purchase future identical pairs from the web.
That's my approach. Pretty parasitic to do otherwise IMHO.
I agree, for any kind of shoes. If it is a self service store, I don't care but if someone takes the time and effort to help me find the right shoe, I buy there. It doesn't matter if they are commission or not, it is the right thing to do.
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PeachyPlum wrote: »Now my shins start hurting while I'm doing my warm-up walk, and don't stop till the workout is over (no lasting pain so far). The bottoms of the balls of my feet are hurting, they feel almost bruised.
I'm pretty sure these shoes don't have the recommended 300 - 450 miles on them, although I lost my mileage log when my smartphone gave up the ghost.
Check the wear pattern. Also if they flex/fold at the ball of the foot easily they are probably shot. In my opinion any unusual pain/discomfort, outside of 'getting back in shape pain' is usually a sign it's time for new shoes. (Or a refitting.) Even if you don't think you've maxed out the mileage on the existing pair it's a good idea to start phasing in new shoes before your old ones are completely dead anyway.0 -
PeachyPlum wrote: »MeanderingMammal wrote: »I get fitted once a year(ish) and then buy new pairs on eBay as needed for roughly 2/3 the price in stores.
I'd personally encourage someone making use of the fitting service then actually use the place that's provided the service. Unless of course the shop charge for the fitting service as a separate item, then offset against purchase.
Well, my original plan with the existing shoes was to purchase that pair at the running store, then purchase future identical pairs from the web.
This is what I actually do, sorry I wasn't clear in my initial reply. I hate taking advantage of the knowledge but spending my dollars elsewhere so I at least buy the first pair from the store that does the fitting, then additional pairs as needed online.0
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