Buying running shoes

[Catmama]

After my post about blisters, where the most common reply was to buy new trainers, I’m wondering the best way to go about this. Any tips? My local independent running shop do a computerised gait analysis but they charge £15 if you’re not buying shoes from them and their shoes cost £100+ so I don’t really want to buy from them. Is the wet foot test accurate enough so I work which which type I need? Or should I bite the bullet and pay the £15 so I am confident in my online purchase? I’m only on week 1 and don’t want to pay out too much incase I can’t complete the challenge. Any thoughts? Also, which website is the best to buy from? Thanks folks!

[AnnieW55]

Hi the link below gives info on gait analysis and shoes

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[SlowLoris]

Gait analysis won't tell you which shoes fit you best. Try on lots of pairs and ignore brands etc. Everyone has different shape feet and different manufacturers make different shape shoes. Make sure you have enough room around your toes and forefoot. Last years colours are often heavily discounted.

[MarkyD Graduate]

Don’t rush out and buy running shoes. Have a browse around online and find out a lacing strategy for your current shoes. If you are getting blisters, then your shoes are too tight (hence the rubbing) and maybe they are too hot in this weather (getting a bit (ahem) damp) and then rubbing. Different lacing could help, or failing that then some talc or body glide.

Main reason for not rushing to buy trainers is that the shop will want you on their treadmill whilst they video you running. You’ll want to be running for 5minutes + before having gait analysis.

When you do decide to buy some trainers, pick a shop that will do it for free, and explain to them your budget straightforwardly and honestly. A good shop will give you a discount and find a less popular colour-way or last years model to fit your budget. Try and go at a time when the shop is not too busy. Mention C25K and you may get an extra discount.

[Catmama in reply to MarkyD]

Thanks that’s some v helpful advice.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

The post about gait analysis in the FAQ section healthunlocked.com/couchto5... explains my experience with the process.

I learned so much about my running style that I could never have found out any other way and recommend every new runner to have it done. From there on in you can buy cheaper online if you wish but with confidence that you are buying the right shoes for you, otherwise it is guesswork.

[Forestgrump Graduate]

Oi ! What’s this word “can’t “ I see you using ? There is no can’t, only do young grasshopper 😉

On the shoe front I think your making a good choice. Plus you will then have to do the challenge cause you have the shoes now and it’ll be a waste of money otherwise . Motivation 😁