Recommendations for shoes?

[Potty]

Hi all,

I'm going to have to brave the sports shops and buy some trainers... Mine are a little on the small side. Obviously I want something which will keep me running and which will help reduce the shock on my knees and ankles. I was wondering whether anybody had any recommendations?

Thanks

[Chloewho Graduate]

I'm sure I'll prompt a reaction but a good, comfortable, affordable pair of running shoes with impact protection is enough to worry about. I know for distance runners Gait Analysis is key but for us less serious runners a decent pair of Asics or Nikes from SD is enough protection, replace them every 250 to 300 miles, but as long as they feel good to you and you haven't got a particularly pronounced arch or flat feet you can't go far wrong.

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

Sorry Chloe, I can't agree, no such thing as a less serious runner, I've had shin splints and now I've got another problem caused by my running shoes. I've returned 3 pairs of shoes to the shop for full refunds, ok I had to whinge a bit to get one of the refunds, but if I had not bought from a reputable shop I would now be over £300 out of pocket. Most runners have had to return unsuitable shoes, and/or have had problems caused by shoes. I guess it depends if you think your knees and joints are worth looking after or not.And good shoes should last 400 - 600 miles not 250 - 300

Potty, get yourself down to a good sport shop and let them help you, you're worth it.

[Toonlou24 Graduate]

Hi. I agree with curly. You need to look after yourself. Running is cheap! Your shoes are really the only expense you have and you still don't need to spend a fortune. I had gait analysis done and ended up with an £80 pair of Brooks, in sale, which have made a massive difference to me. I was getting pain in Achilles and bottom of my feet. It all disappeared straight away. Don't go for cheapies!! You're worth more!!!!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Your feet and gait are different to everyone elses and all shoes are not the same, in shape, support, width and heel lift, etc., so as the others say, get the advice of experts. I have bought excellent running gear from SD, but the knowledge of all the staff I have encountered has been woeful. One person's recommendation may be totally inappropriate for you.

[Anniemurph Graduate]

Hi Potty, it's definitely worth going to a proper sports shop and getting gait analysis done. You won't necessarily have to spend a lot on shoes but it may save you a lot of pain. I would have stopped c25k if I hadn't gone and got fitted for the right shoes. In Week 3 my shins were so bad I was crying with the pain. In week 4, with new shoes, I was fine - huffing and puffing, mind, but no pain in the shins Those shoes lasted me about 600 miles so although the initial outlay was £90, that's not a bad return overall. You don't need to pay for the GA although I think it's a courtesy to buy the shoes from there after they've spent the time and effort on you. Good luck, and let us know how it goes!

[Potty Graduate]

Thanks all - I'll have to investigate - really not keen on shopping but really could do with some better fitting trainers. On the other hand, when I do get some will undoubtedly be proud as punch and eager to tell you all about them