I need new running shoes. Recommend yours!

[Anonymous]

I currently wear Mizuno Waves Inspire 12s but am due for a new pair. I am also realizing that they are giving me runner's toe. I had New Balances before that but stopped wearing that brand because of the alt-right association.

I am a moderate runner, mostly 3-5 miles, 2-3 times per week and a few races per year.
No wide or narrow feet or arch issues. And I am not looking to break the bank for sneakers.

What you like and why?

[Anonymous]

I'm a long time runner - mostly I've used Asics over the years - I've found them to be light and comfortable though not as firm or supportive.

I've had a couple of pairs of Saucony which I like because they have a lot more support and last longer as wear around the house shoes when they are used up from running but they used to be a bit heavier.

My current pair is from New Balance - I decided to switch because they still make their shoes in the US (for the most part) and these shoes have been the easiest on my knees that I've ever had but they also wore out on the bottom really fast and I'm going to be replacing them about a year sooner than I would expect to.

I've actually been happy with all the shoes I've had - just make sure you have a good fit.

[jsteele]

Go to a good running store where a professional can help you choose the correct shoe. I recently did this and would never have chosen the shoe they picked for me. I was convinced the woman was crazy and that the shoe was at least two sizes too big. I was all set to return them and show them the blisters ithey caused. Except, no blisters. Not only that, after many miles of running, I love the shoes. Actually, there are few things I love more than those shoes these days given the amount of time I spend in them.

[Anonymous]

Yeah, you really need to be fitted for the correct running shoe. I need support (I actually have custom orthocs but need a moderate support shoe on top of that) and for awhile I was running in shoes from the “neutral” category of running shoes and ended up with nasty plantar fasciitis. The wrong shoe can cause you a world of hurt, so it doesn’t matter what anyone else likes. You need the shoe that’s right specifically for you.

[Anonymous]

jsteele wrote:Go to a good running store where a professional can help you choose the correct shoe. I recently did this and would never have chosen the shoe they picked for me. I was convinced the woman was crazy and that the shoe was at least two sizes too big. I was all set to return them and show them the blisters ithey caused. Except, no blisters. Not only that, after many miles of running, I love the shoes. Actually, there are few things I love more than those shoes these days given the amount of time I spend in them.

I'm with Jeff on this one. once you find a good brand for you - you can just reorder online. I have high arches so I love Saucony's Ride line. I use insoles too that I got custom fitted when plantar facistics hit me. Over 50, running 15 miles weekly for 25+ years, no knee problems While I don't buy expensive to buy expensive - I will if needed. Mine usually run close to $100 but I figure every penny is worth it for functioning knees!

[Anonymous]

Yes, definitely go to a dedicated running store. Not a general sports store like "Foot Locker" or "Finish Line." Running stores are staffed by people who actually run.

I went almost 5 years ago to get checked out at Pacers, and I'm still wearing the same recommended shoe, the Brooks Ghost (updated versions, obviously--but the same brand & style). They did a great job, and I too probably would not have picked out what they recommended, if it were just me. But they are smart and know their feet and shoes.

It may be more expensive than online, but I really recommend buying your shoe from a running store - especially that first time, and maybe every other pair. They provide a vital neighborhood service that your big box store cannot.

[Anonymous]

OP here - yeah, DH is pushing me to go to PRR and just try on a bunch of shoes. Guess I’ll take a trip this weekend. Thanks!

[Anonymous]

I have wide feet and high arches and love Saucony and Brooks. Once I find a shoe I like, I just reorder online when they're on sale.

[Anonymous]

Worth it to get fitted. What works for me will not necessarily work for you and vice versa. Go to a store that has a lot of brands and doesn't push one brand over another.

[Anonymous]

I buy shoes that feel comfortable rather than a specific brand. It wasn't until my most recent purchase of Asics Kayanos that I realized probably 5 of my last 7 pairs of shoes have been Asics.

I walk quite a bit--probably 10 miles a day. I have two pairs of identical Kayanos, and simply alternate each day to give the shoes a chance to air out. I will probably order a couple more pairs before they discontinue this model and then deal with the chore of finding some new ones in a year or two.