Talk to me about running shoes

[busymama77]

What do you wear? Where did you find them? Were you 'fitted' for them or did you purchase them online or in a store? If I'm gonna get serious about this, I'd like to purchase a nice pair that feel comfy.

Thanks!

[Jend1002]

Do you have a running-specific store near by? Some of them will video tape you jogging on a treadmill and make recommendations based on how your feet strike the ground. Slightly awkward for sure. But this worked really well for me. I purchased a pair there, but now that I know what to look for, I can order on line.

[busymama77]

Originally Posted by Jend1002

Do you have a running-specific store near by? Some of them will video tape you jogging on a treadmill and make recommendations based on how your feet strike the ground. Slightly awkward for sure. But this worked really well for me. I purchased a pair there, but now that I know what to look for, I can order on line.

Right on. I do! I have a New Balance store and then there is a store that a friend of mine visited a while back. Not sure if it's geared specifically towards running or not. They didn't have her run, but she stood on something that took a picture of the bottom of her feet and it helped them pick out the appropriate shoe for her.

[bec]

I would go to a running specific store that has a variety of brands. Some brands work better for some and others work better for others. It just depends on your gait, foot fall, pronation (or not), etc. They should watch you run on a treadmill (or out in front of the store), or video you running or something. If they don't do that, I would not get shoes from them. You can always get the shoe recommendation, and go elsewhere if they are too expensive. I usually buy one pair from the store, and then will look elsewhere for less expensive shoes when those wear out.

[sewaneecook]

If you know New Balance shoes work well for you, then go to that store, however, if you have never bought running shoes before, don't go to a brand specific store. I've tried 3 pairs of New Balance shoes and all of them REALLY hurt my feet (and I was fitted by their "experts"). I've tried a variety of shoes and I've liked Reebok, Saucony, and Brooks. Most mall shoe stores don't know how to properly fit a shoe. Once you are fitted for a pair of shoes, you can then get subsequent pairs online at discounts. I never go in to a specialty store, get their advice and then buy elsewhere. I pay a premium to get a good fit. Once I find a good pair of shoes, I find the same make and model online for cheaper after the first wear out. Good luck on your search. The right pair of shoes can make all the difference in the world!

[busymama77]

Originally Posted by sewaneecook

If you know New Balance shoes work well for you, then go to that store, however, if you have never bought running shoes before, don't go to a brand specific store. I've tried 3 pairs of New Balance shoes and all of them REALLY hurt my feet (and I was fitted by their "experts"). I've tried a variety of shoes and I've liked Reebok, Saucony, and Brooks. Most mall shoe stores don't know how to properly fit a shoe. Once you are fitted for a pair of shoes, you can then get subsequent pairs online at discounts. I never go in to a specialty store, get their advice and then buy elsewhere. I pay a premium to get a good fit. Once I find a good pair of shoes, I find the same make and model online for cheaper after the first wear out. Good luck on your search. The right pair of shoes can make all the difference in the world!

I just found another store - closer to home - called Fleet Feet. I think I may check them out this weekend. Thanks!

[bec]

Fleet Feet is an excellent store to go to! They are a national chain, but focused on running, and not brand specific. You should get a good fit there for running! Good luck!

[sewaneecook]

I've not been to a Fleet Feet, but I've heard great things about them. You should get a great shoe there.

[shelbean91]

I posted this on another thread - and I'm not an experienced runner by any means, but check out www.vibrumfivefingers.com They're amazing.

[ambereva]

I run (and lift) in my Vibram Five Fingers and they've done wonders for my joint issues.