Running Shoes

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Replies

  • SerenaNatasha
    SerenaNatasha Posts: 246
    Brooks FTW!!! :-D
  • Suz_w8loss
    Suz_w8loss Posts: 197 Member
    I was having shin splintz and knee issues. I went to the local Fitness/Running store and got video taped while running in my shoes. I overpronate and need a "high stability" shoe. I tried on 10 pairs and ran on the store treadmill to get a feel for them. Once I narrowed it down to 2 or 3 based on general comfort I ran in those and got video taped. I ended up with Brooks. Also, normally I wear an 8.5 or 9 in shoes but they said that is way too small for a running shoe. You should be able to play the piano with your toes in the shoes. I ended up with 10.5!!! At first they felt like flippers but now they are fine. I also bought compression sleeves for the shin splintz and they are GONE. I can run with no pain whatsoever.

    I just read your post -LOL !
    We must have been typing at the same time. Pretty similar shin splint stories :)
  • laurajplus4
    laurajplus4 Posts: 25 Member
    So, true. Just think of it as a one time cost. Once you know the proper shoes to wear, you can order them on the Internet for less. It will definitely be worth it. Good luck!
    The markup at the running store will save you pain and suffering down the road. Just go and pay.

    You can get fitted at a reputable running store free of charge. They will measure your feet and analyze your gait. They'll allow you to try on as many pair of running shoes and have you run in them outside or on a treadmill. You don't need to pay to get professionally fit for the right shoes for your feet.

    However, if you do choose to go to a running store to have it done by a professional, then I encourage you to buy your shoes from them. It would be like not tipping your server at a restaurant if you didn't.

    You get what you pay for ... and in this instance, you should pay for what you get.

    Most of these running stores are independently owned. They're people who live in your community. They support your local runs for charities in your community. They're often the coaches for TNT. They offer discounts to high school athletes and to running clubs.

    If you tap into their professional knowledge, buy your shoes from them. The extra cost is minimal.

    And, there are shoes that are "look a likes" to running shoes. They are the "fashion" shoe thus they would be incredibly cheaper. You'll get the real deal at running stores.


    I have to agree with this. I was fitted at a local (about 45 miles away) runnng store. It was small, independantly owned, and I did not pay for the ananlysis. They didn't even ask if I planned on buying from them...but I did. And honestly, the prices were no different that what I found online for the specific shoe.

    I think it's totally worthe the trip, time and $$. Keep in mind, if you are using them often, they will need replacing much more frequently than your *street sneakers*.

    Good Luck!
  • athensguy
    athensguy Posts: 550
    I have gone the opposite route from many people, and I run in shoes with no support of any kind that have a zero heel to toe drop.

    My favorites are from Soft Star Shoes (RunAmoc Dash), and I also have some of the Vibram FiveFingers toe shoes that I like.
  • Virginia90
    Virginia90 Posts: 317 Member
    Does anyone know if Academy Sports does the gait tests?
  • 99clmsntgr
    99clmsntgr Posts: 777 Member
    Does anyone know if Academy Sports does the gait tests?

    They're a big box, so I doubt it, but it may be worth a call to see if they have anyone who knows what they're talking about (you really want someone who knows what they're looking at if you're going to have someone evaluate you).

    You could also check your local gym or see if there's a local running club, they may be able to help, too.
  • Virginia90
    Virginia90 Posts: 317 Member
    We live in a pretty rural area. The closest city is Springfield, MO, and it's about 65 miles away. I don't even know what to search for in regards for finding a store that will evaluate me for free. The Starting Block is the one that I know will evaluate me, but charge a lot for it.

    ETA: Oh, and they say "free analysis" in their commercial, but when I called them they said it was free with a shoe purchase. Lol
  • MichelePA
    MichelePA Posts: 1
    Getting fitted for the proper shoe is extremely important and yes working with a small independent store as recommended by others is my suggestion as well. Start by googling local running clubs, local races and see what you can find near you even if it is in the bigger city. Look at your shoes as an investment in YOU... and once you find a pair then you can get them at a lesser cost perhaps for the next pair.

    I alternate between a brooks and a saucony shoe and have just started running in a Muzino (which I LOVE thus far) I usually have 2-3 pairs going at one time between my training and racing and it is important to keep track as to how many miles you keep on your shoes. Good Luck and Happy RUNNING!
  • infinitusetperfectum
    infinitusetperfectum Posts: 17
    My first pair of running shoes were fitted. The place where I got them from didn't charge me, they just asked me to walk up and down a little path so they could see how I walk, and my shoes are great!

    Having fitted shoes is definitely something that benefits you, because they work for the way you walk and run, not for the size of your feet.
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