So I am going to try and start running again soon. I am so scared and really not sure about it all, seems crazy and scary right now! I got a few things I have been reading but my hardest thing is trying to find a decent shoe to start out with. I am thinking Asics, I need a lot of support with bad knees and back!! Let me know what you think! I loved Rebox in high school but I am not sure how they are now?
Don't be afraid! Running is your friend! Once you have a good pair of shoes, it becomes not so scary really quick!
I think all runners ask this question from time to time. The quickest and easiest answer is no two people will wear the same shoes. If you think about it, everyone's feet are different and everyone will need a pair of shoes to accommodate them.
To start, I would recommend finding a specialized running store in your area. Katie, there is a place called Often Running in Bloomington or Normal.... is that too far? Go in and tell them you need a pair of running shoes. They will probably ask how many miles you run (or plan to run) in a week and if you are training for anything special and if you are prone to injury. Don't go to the wall and try to pick out a pair yourself. There are far too many to do it alone!! And the employees at specialized running stores are usually die hard runners themselves and their wealth of knowledge is at your disposal.
After a brief consultation, you will be asked to wear a neutral running shoe on a treadmill or running track and the store employee will watch your gait and see if you have any motion control issues. I myself, pronate, so I need a shoe with moderate stability. After the neutral shoe, the store employee will bring out a few pair that fir your running style. Try them all on and DO NOT, I repeat NO NOT, pick the prettiest one. It is a criminal act to chose a pair of running shoes by their color.
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| My not so pretty shoes. I wish they came in pink! |
Once the shoe finder appointment is over, you do not need to buy the shoes right there at the store. You can write down the make and model and try to find them online. Personally, I don't think running stores mark their shoes up a ton. I can sometimes find my shoes (Brooks Adrenaline) online for $5 or $10 less but then I pay shipping and it is a wash. A lot of times, running stores have a rewards program so it is worth buying shoes from them.
When you buy your shoes, take them home and write the date in them. Running shoes have a shelf life and will break down over time and miles. If you look at your shoes one day and see that they are two years old, its time to get a new pair!!
Good question Katie, and if you want, I'll sign up for the Batavia half! August 28th!
Happy running!
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