What running shoes should I buy?

[Slowandeasy]

So I am onto week 3 of C25K and managing OK. But I am running in walking shoes at present and feel I need something a bit more suited to the task. I am a big lad - 6 foot tall and 18 stone (though hoping to reduce this) and I usually run on canal banks and fields so mud is often an issue. Also, I don't want to spend a fortune - running is not my life! Any hints or suggestions?

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate]

Hi Slowandeasy,

Have a read of this.... written by lannodaTruffe about which shoes etc.

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Slowandeasy in reply to Bluebirdrunner]

hi Jan

Was there a link or attachment I am missing?

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate in reply to Slowandeasy]

Its there now.x

[Slowandeasy in reply to Slowandeasy]

OOPS! found it. Many thanks

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate in reply to Slowandeasy]

Going up a half size to your usual shoes is advisable, as your feet swell when you run...something I found out with numb toes in my first pair of runners 😆x

[Evie79]

I just run in trainers, they’re comfortable and I only use them for running.

[Slowandeasy in reply to Evie79]

Thanks for the tip.

[Evie79 in reply to Slowandeasy]

Your welcome

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Evie79]

Leisure trainers are not running shoes.

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Evie79 in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I didn’t say they were did I. Running shoes are more expensive trainers.

[Evie79 in reply to Evie79]

Running shoes are trainers with more layers to cushion the feet, my trainers work fine for me.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

As Bluebirdrunner says.. check the link out...

Lots of bargains to be had.. last year's colours.. weird colours etc.

Track shoes for field and off road.. I love mine.. and there are some good hybrids too...other folk do not have separate shoes.. I just like the extra grip on mine

[Slowandeasy in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks for the tip. Where's the best place to buy? Online or in shop? Any particular websites?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Go to a specialist running shop and have a gait analysis done, otherwise you are taking pot luck with your choice of shoes.

Please read this healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[notoutofbreath Graduate]

If you're put off by gait analysis et al, my suggestion is your local Decathlon. At the worst, they're an improvement on your walking shoes! They do have some of the known brands, but they have their own brand ones for us cheapskates ;P Means you can get more features than if you just went for the cheapest of the professionals' ranges. They detail how much running each one is suitable for. Since you're on muddy fields go for one of their ones that are trail as well as road so that you get the extra grip.

Do try them on though, you need to know how they feel.

[misswobble Graduate]

If you get trail shoes you don’t need gait analysis as they’re neutral. That’s what i’m led to understand

Try them on! Go at least a half size up. If you are a big lad then you need good running shoes Last years models, or the years before that even. A good run shop will be able to help

They don’t need to cost the earth so make it clear you don’t need the lastest model

Have fun!

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

Whats your budget? I went to a specialist running shop and got gait analysis (just as well I did) with a vague budget in mind of 75 quid, I did end up paying 100 all in but I didn't mind as the shoes are very supportive and great quality.

[hannah141 Graduate]

My favourite place to go is the brooks site, but the clearance section. They have last season's shoes at 40%ish off. I'm not bothered about having the latest technology and I'd much rather spend £60 that £100. I usually order about 5 different styles at great expense on the credit card, then send back the 4 I don't feel right in. I'm afraid it is often trial and error but it's so so worth it.