Running shoes!

[fivekstarter]

Suggestions suggestions.. I am in need of a good, comfortable pair of trainers but I'm absolutely boggled by the choice, should I be looking for something special? Is there a brand that's tried and trusted for runners? I don't want to spend a fortune either but just need something that offers good support and grip any suggestions fire them my way 🏃🏼‍♀️🤙🏻👟👟

[AnnieW55]

Look at related posts to the right, or use the search box and you will see that the only "best" shoe is the right one for you. For your first pair get gait analysis at your local running shop. Tell them your budget and go from there. Most shops have discount prices on last seasons styles colours, so no need to buy the latest, highest spec. Beware a certain large sports chain that always wants you to spend another £40 on inserts.

[fivekstarter in reply to AnnieW55]

Excellent - on my list now to get gait analysis, hadn't heard of it previously so thank you for the advice!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Annie says it all. We all have different feet, weight and running style. My recommendation might be totally inappropriate for you.

I thought gait analysis was a marketing ploy until I had it done and could clearly see the difference that the right shoes made for me. I have never paid as much for any other article of clothing or footwear as I did for that pair of shoes, but now consider it was a fabulous investment.

[Fiendarina Graduate]

Echo the replies above. I started off my first few runs on Couch to 5K in the trainers I already had, but once I was determined to continue I braced myself to buy some proper running shoes. I have no clue how to choose, just went to a specialist shop so they did gait analysis, explained I'd be keen on shoes in a sale, then went with their recommendations and what felt comfortable. Took my own running socks to try them on. First time round came out with Asics, more recently with Brooks. My husband got some reduced because they were last season's model. More than anything else, decent running shoes will help protect your feet and prevent injuries, so it's worth investing.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

If possible, try and get sorted at a reputable running shoes, shop...

We are all so different, and as IannodaTruffe says, if we recommended our shoes, they would probably not suit you.

There are bargains to be had, old stock, unpopular colours, ( which I love... because they are often really funky)! But your shoes are your most important bit of gear...

[Redbillie21 Graduate]

I can't stress enough importance of having a gait analysis done BEFORE you start running. As I've posted before, I only had one done once I'd graduated and have been paying the price for it ever since.

[Rignold in reply to Redbillie21]

unless you have a really extreme pronation issue or whatever, which presumably would have already been apparent in normal shoes, I can't really agree this is true. The time you are spending on your feet in the early stages of C25k are really not sufficient to cause significant problems unless you are wearing slingback platforms.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate in reply to Rignold]

.... I did the wet foot test at home... did not know about gait analysis...... I have to admit it... my feet appeared 'normal', ( a bit of an oxymoron for me...) I just got the shoes I thought would meet my needs... they did...

[Hidden]

Don't dismiss Decathlon. I had a gait analysis there, got very good service, bought some reasonably priced and very comfortable shoes that are still going strong and was not pressured into buying anything else. A pleasant change from my local running shop who were snooty and dismissive!

[AnnieW55 in reply to Hidden]

Just to say I didn't mean them. Haven't been there in a while but I too have bought some good stuff from them over the years for various sports at very good prices.

[Maddee_6333 Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Did you use the computer gait analysis dohickey? Or did one of the sales staff do it for you?

[Michael_W Graduate]

Without wishing to stoke any controversy, I think gait analysis is overrated for most amateur runners. Far more important IMO is to buy a good quality pair of shoes from a reputable brand that FIT WELL and feel comfortable. For sure, some people have 'odd' feet that need extra consideration but if that's you then you probably know it already. The majority of us will do just fine in a well fitting neutral shoe.

Good quality socks are important too, whether you like the skinny performance ones or the more cushioned types (Belega for me).

One other point I want to make: if you go to a local running shop and feel that you've benefited from their advice then buy from them. If instead you spend an hour in the store and then go and purchase your shoes more cheaply online then don't be surprised to find boarded up windows next time you visit.

Good luck!

[Whatsapp Graduate in reply to Michael_W]

I'm certainly no expert either but what you say make sense to me Michael_W . In other sports like golf or tennis if there is a problem with your swing then you learn to correct it, not just buy a different size and weight of racket/ club to compensate it.

Is there no advice out there for correcting irregular gait?

[fivekstarter in reply to Michael_W]

Thanks Michael 🙂