Wrong Shoes?

[Anonymous]

I have had the same pair of running shoes for about 3 years that I use to walk about 45 mins to an hour every day. Started to have some lower back pain, so along with other things I decided it's probably time for a new pair of shoes. I wanted to not spend too much money, so I bought some Ryka's at DSW that felt good in the store but were horrible when I walked in them (blisters, etc.). Upon the recommendation of a friend went to Roadrunner today and did the whole foot analysis. It took so long, and the salepeople were helping so many other people, I just walked out with the ones that felt fine. They feel a little big in the toe box, and I just went on a walk and they aren't uncomfortable per se, I was just very hyper aware of my feet the entire time. I'm not extremely picky about running shoes I just haven't bought new ones in so long - I don't know, did I make the wrong choice again or does it just take a while to get used to them?

[Anonymous]

I just read a study that said the ONLY important thing (in reducing injuries) is comfort. But I agree that sometimes it is hard to tell until you've had them a while. So I just buy several pairs from the outlets that feel comfortable, and use the ones that end up feeling the best.

[Anonymous]

Also, thick socks are helpful for me.

[Anonymous]

The best place to get proper shoes so you don't injure yourself would be a running store like fleet feet, Potomac River running, or R&J. It really makes a difference to be fitted properly.

[Anonymous]

At Road Runner, did you tell them the shoes would be used for walking as opposed to running?

Honestly, I do not like going to Road Runner. Very high pressure to buy their custom insole. I said "no" about 1000 times and told them (repeatedly) my podiatrist had already told me what insoles I should use. But they kept on their insole.

BTW, running shoes have a lifespan of 300-500 miles. So if you do 2-3 miles a day walking (at a pace of 20:00 / mile), you'd need new ones in < 1 year.