I've just started running (2 months of experience) and I have your basic Nike walking/running shoe. I figure, now that it's basically a habit that I can't stop, I should get shoes that are a little more suited to running. I know it's a preference thing, but do any of you have a suggestion on shoes y'all have liked or currently like? Thanks.
Congratulations on the new hobby/habit! I highly suggest you pick up a copy of Born to Run and download the Nike+ App. To your shoe question, I prefer Sauconeys. Just put 350miles on my kinvara trails and they still feel great. Run easy, my friend
I have flat arches in my feet, so I need a little more support from my shoes than most of the common Nike running shoes. The Kayano series by Asics are my favorite running shoes ever. The latest generations are pretty expensive, but you can always find older models at nordstrom rack, discount shoe stores, and sometimes Marshalls for betweem 60-90 dollars.
I use Asics Gt2000 and Gel Flash. They have been great. I have run 750+ miles in them so far this year.
Yeah, this is something I'm going to be doing when I finally get back home. But I figured I would just get opinions and whatnot, just because it's nice to have another perspective on things. I'll have to look into that book. I've been using the MapMyRun app for my tracking program of choice. Basically it does what I what it to. It gives me numbers to motivate me. What does Nike+ offer that makes it awesome? And yeah, it's nice. I've always HATED running (more of a run/walk combo is what I do.) and amazingly, now I actually look forward to it somewhat. In the two months, I've gone from getting pretty winded at .15-.2 miles and a total of 2-3 miles, to being able to go .5 - .6 miles at a time and a total of 5-7 miles. I know that's not the greatest...but considering I've NEVER been able to go that long at a time before, it's a pretty big accomplishment for me.
I've been running in my Altra Zero Drops since I got them for Christmas. They are different and it took me a few runs to get used to them but now I absolutely love them and sometime even where them while just walking around. Their whole thing is the idea of not wanting to rip your shoes off as soon as you get back and I would say they do a good job of that. They can get kind of pricey though so I would recommend doing some research on Zero Drop Minimalist shoes to make sure they are something that would be right for you before purchasing a pair. Congrats on the new hobby. You will definitely grow to love it more and more as you grow as a runner.
I'm flat-footed, so I only wear the Asics GT series. I upgrade every 2 years and have had no problems. I believe this is the newest model. http://www.asicsamerica.com/Shop/Footwear/Running/Mens/GT-1000/p/0010127286.9358 Edit: Sports Authority has them on sale for $74.99. Find a 25% coupon and get them for about $56 plus tax. I'm going to go buy a pair this afternoon.
And yet, if you're used to being in shoes all your life, those barefoot running shoes are going to hurt you more than help.
I'm also of the flat footed variety of people. This and jaykay's suggestion is going to make me look into asics a little harder.
Just make sure you get Asics with the "Duo Max" on the side. That's what's giving you the added arch support. I don't think the Asics Kayano has that feature. I'm no shoe expert, but the manager at the Sports Authority I go to is and he was basically giving me a crash course, lol.
Wow! That's fantastic. What type of arch do you have? How so? Honest question. I need a good pair of running shoes. I'm going to get pretty serious about running again. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I think I have a normal arch. I have never been diagnosed with any foot abnormalities. I tend to rotate through 3 pairs of shoes. If you run a lot, your shoes need 24 hours to bounce back. I keep 2 pairs at home that I alternate on outdoor runs (Gel Flash) and a pair at work that I use on a treadmill (GT-2000).
I run between 70 and 90 miles a month, at 43 years old I learned that you cant be cheap on your shoes. I have the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 12, $110 but well worth it. I have only been a runner for a little over two years so I am still learning.