Trainers

[Jade1988]

So tomorrow I'm going to sports direct for some new running shoes/trainers. Anybody going to help me out with what to look for and what to avoid?? Xx

[runwithdog Graduate]

if you have loads to spend you could go to a running shop who would advise on what is correct for you. consider foot arch,pronation etc ect.

i am on a budget so go to sports direct.

i have karrimores which are good and also newbalance.

inserts can be added for fine tuning.

i go for the lightest in weight.

i have many pairs of everyday trainers but can only run 2pairs pairs.

this is only my opinion.

[damienair Graduate]

Avoid Sports Direct. That’s my advice.

Go to to a proper independent running shop. The people working in a proper independent running shop will be experienced runners and will guide and look after you. Get a gait analysis done. It may be a little more expensive than you had planned for but it’s so worth it. I bought my running shoes 2 years ago, I only use them for running. I have other running shoes which I wear out and about and around the house.

I will have to buy a new pair this summer and will be going back to the same shop.

Damien

[Jade1988]

Yeah I don't have a huge budget at all. I'm looking at about 80 quid for now just to get me started then I will investin a more expensive pair when I start doing the longer distances... I was looking at NB and they seem to have some really good ones

[damienair Graduate in reply to Jade1988]

£80 would be ok. Seriously go to an independent running shop and explain that £80 is your budget. They may have shoes from last years stock and will have shoes which will suit you and your budget. They also do a free gait analysis if you buy your shoes there. Your money will be wisely spent.

Stay clear of Sports Direct. They have great value, but you won’t get proper advice, if any. And you may walk out with an unsuitable pair of £80 runners.

Damien

[Jogunlikely Graduate]

Hi Jade if you think you will stick with running I would go to an independent and get gait analysis done. The ones in my area charge about £25 if you dont buy shoes, or free if you do.

When I had mine done I got to try 4 different pairs running outside on the pavement. Sports direct will not let you try before you buy

You could be lucky and pick the right pair for you or you can end up putting yourself off running.

If you decide to get gait analysis then post your general location and other forum members will be able to advise on a good shop near you.

Best of luck x

[molly1973 Graduate]

I recently bought my first pair at a running shop (well, they were my birthday present). Ended up spending £95 on a sale pair of Brooks which are fab. What surprised me was that she took me up a full size from my normal so wearing a 7.5 wide fit, and I really don’t think I would have had that advice from a more generic shop. In my experience Sports Direct often don’t have much range and are generally all neutral shoes which won’t give you the support you need if you happen to over-pronate. Again, my opinion.

[Jade1988]

No all opinions welcome that's why I asked... I don't want to be damaging my feet and causing problems for myself in the long run. There is a running shop in Huddersfield that I will pop into tomorrow morning... x

[molly1973 Graduate in reply to Jade1988]

I live in Leeds and work in Huddersfield. I think Up & Running in Hud is pretty small so may have less stock but they will be great. I went to Up & Running in Leeds city centre who were fab 👍

[Soozc25k Graduate]

It's a dilemma isn't it.

Having read your responses, I'm going to put out a call to see if there's any running shops in remote north Norfolk where I am.

Good luck with getting yours.

Do you think you'll go to sports direct after all??

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

This guide to buying shoes may help healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Good running shoes are cheaper than a physio.

[DiscoRunner Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Very good point!

[MarkyD Graduate]

Sports Direct are likely to sell you whichever brand they make most commission on, and not give a toss as to whether they fit or are suitable for you.

A local, independent running specialist is going to take the time to understand your needs and gait, will have a range of shoes within your budget (tell them your budget) and will offer a money-back guarantee.