Where to buy good running shoes?

[missy72]

Ok, so I'm about to start week 6 and haven't had any problem with the trainers I've got, cheapest pair bought years ago.

Everywhere I'm reading and hearing is that I need to be wearing properly fitted running shoes..

Ok so where shall I start? What shops do specialist fittings? Any recommendations for 'not too expensive.' Any places to avoid?

Cheers!

[starknut]

Most places that are serious running/sports shops will do fittings. I went to a little place near my house, just a little hole-in-the-wall place, and even they did a proper during and let me do a test run on a treadmill there in the store. Search online for places near you and go take a look.

[missy72]

Cheers! I'll do that. I'm going to try Runnersneed at the weekend. But I have a feeling they'll be expensive, but I guess it will worth it!

[Archer73]

I watched a Panorama program on the sports industry, their experts said as long as your trainers are comfortable then that's good enough. Getting yourself measured and being supplied with specially made trainers was both expensive and unnecessary. I bought myself some decent Nike running shoes and I couldn't be happier.

[thereyet?]

When I went in, I asked them to give me several options in various "budget categories". I did get suckered in to purchasing the most expensive pair because I could really feel the difference, and I didn't want ANY reason to stop running. I don't regret it a bit. I have not had any joint or foot pain! (Make sure you stretch!) I think you can skimp on apparel and gear, but shoes are important. You could ask for last year's model!?

[thereyet?]

Just had to clarify...are you talking about a custom shoe or just having someone recommend a shoe specifically for you? I was thinking you meant the latter, and you're ultimately just getting something off-the-shelf. Also, once you know what your needs are you can find future pairs elsewhere, though I think getting your initial pair from the store that helped you is the decent thing to do (unless they charge a "fitting fee").

[missy72]

Well I've heard of all these places where they watch you run on a treadmill to see how you run. Apparently some trainers are suited to flat footed people etc. I must admit I have no clue what type of foot I have. I haven't had any problem with my basic £20 trainers that I bought years ago (hardly used) and have yet to have any blisters. But I know if I go into a shop I will be suckered in. Most work on commission, and won't let you leave until you've purchased something. LOL

[matt]

I think many people can get away with average trainers because by definition, most people have average feet However, I think it's worth being checked out by a reputable running shoe shop, in case they can spot any problems.

I was getting an aching hip quite regularly back when I started running. I went into a shop a friend recommended, who do the video gait analysis, among other things, and they spotted a tendency to "over pronate" (translation: I have flat feet ) and recommended a couple of different shoes for me. I picked the most comfy ones, I've been running in them ever since, and my hip ache went away. Plus they were definitely lighter and more comfortable to run in than my older more "standard" trainers.

I think it's worth trying a decent pair of running shoes, bought from a good shop (especially if you can get a personal recommendation from a runner you know) at least once, if you can spare the time and money. I'm still buying the "next model year" of the same running shoes I was recommended when the previous ones wear out, and I'm happy to do it...

Matt

[Maddymoo]

This is very good advice. I have only just recently started jogging and the trainers I bought are awful! They kill my feet, and it turns out its because they are high arch shoes whereas I have very low arches! It's definitely worth taking the time to find out what you need as it saves unnecessary pain and discomfort!

Maddy x