So... I've got tiny, narrow (size 35) feet and didn't possess any trainers until I started this C25K, when I bought a child's pair because they don't appear to sell adults size 35s and I wasn't sure I'd keep up with the running. Now here I am at week 8 and loving it, but have been worried about my joints etc (I'm not young!), wearing these very basic children shoes. So, today I went to Decathlon and bought a pair of running shoes which have amazing reviews considering the price. They are size 36 but didn't feel too big...well, when I walk they do a tiny bit, but once I start to run they feel great and I'reread you should buy slightly larger shoes for running in than your usual size. However... Within a few minutes of setting off my feet felt VERY hot and err.... wet... Cotton socks, you see... The shoes certainly didn't feel too big though - no slipping/ sliding... just VERY wet, which I've previously only noticed near the end of my runs, and when it's hot and sunny (I live in France) and today wasn't a particularly warm day. Then things got worse - halfway through it was like running on bristles, then nearing the 20 minutes point I could tell I had a blister on each foot and although I finished, it certainly spoiled my run. Apart from that - the difference in cushioning was amazing, AND despite the blisters I improved my speed without trying and my legs/hips felt so much more comfortable... So - do I try different socks? Do I try an insole in case they ARE too big? Have I wasted my money? How do you test shoes out when buying new ones? You can't run around a shop for 15 minutes.....! Shall I go back to my kids trainers until I finish week 9? It seems such a shame... How disappointing for the focus to be on my footwear instead of the pleasures of the run! I'd be grateful for any advice or comments! I want to go back out in my old ones and do it again.....
W8D2 new shoes, first blisters.....: So... I've... - Couch to 5K
W8D2 new shoes, first blisters.....
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I would suggest you need running socks. They have additional padding/cushioning in the areas we are most likely to get blisters.
You don't need expensive branded ones.
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I don't like padded socks as I have sightly wide feet at the toes and they make my shoes too tight. However, if your shoes are a bit larger that might not be a problem for you. I really like Nike Dri-fit running socks - they wick moisture away so keep your feet dry. Whatever you get, make sure they have wicking ability, definitely not cotton as they just retain moisture as you've discovered!
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There are quite a few Women's shoes Size 35 on Amazon...e.g.
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I like running socks too, like running on marshmallows. Sport shops in UK usually allow you return shoes that aren't working for you, but I do't know about France, or Decathlon...
where in France are you? I live there too in summer.
I've ordered some running socks now, and will see how I go... I do think, from answers on here that it WAS the socks. I'll wear my kids basic ones for my next run/s because I don't want to risk more blisters at this stage, with just 4 runs to go! When my running socks arrive I'll try a few mini runs in the new trainers before I go too far in them again... I live in the Charente area, an hour north of Bordeaux. It's perfect for running - gently undulating but not hilly - so I finally accepted I had no excuses left and HAD to get fit/start running! Where do you live in the summer?