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.....
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.
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!
There are quite a few Women's shoes Size 35 on Amazon...e.g.
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?