Last week, I asked a question on Facebook about what you wanted to learn more about.
I got some great questions here and via email about what you want to read about. Today’s topic is related to one of those questions:
“Does it really matter what shoe you have?”
This is a great question! It’s actually one of the first topics I cover with my athletes and those that are curious about getting into running.
The short answer: Yes!
I have heard this question frequently in my years as a Run Coach and as a friend who is constantly pushing encouraging running. :) I actually had a similar conversation last tonight with a great friend over drinks.
Why?
To be honest, when I started running, I ran in an old pair of Sketchers that I had lying around the house. If you’re just getting started, have no history of injury, and little budget for shoes – it might be okay. The key word here: might. I encourage you to set yourself up for success (if you can afford it) as not everyone can run in any shoe.
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There are three types of foot strikes: neutral, supinate, and overpronate. A neutral foot strike is a slight pronation of the foot when making contact with the ground. A supinate foot strike is an underpronation of the foot when making contact of the ground, which means your foot does not roll inward as expected or a slight outward roll. Overpronation, the most common, is an exaggerated roll inward during the foot strike. Depending on your foot strike, different shoes will be recommended to prevent injuries.
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There are also considerations related to your foot arch. For example, I have very high arches and without the proper support, my feet fatigue easily and foot cramps are close behind. There are generalizations around foot strike and arch types, but it doesn’t apply to everyone.
What happens if you’re shoes aren’t the best match for your foot strike and/or arch?
You could be lucky and have no problems, which would be awesome! Or you could end up with knee pain, foot pain, back pain..the list goes on.
For me, the risk of the wrong shoes is much higher than the cost of good shoes. I can’t tell you the number of times that an athlete has been injured because they didn’t get fitted for the right shoes – it’s a common mistake to make, but an easy one to avoid!
How do you avoid this mistake?
Find a specialized running store in your area that other runners respect and recommend. In the Atlanta area, I recommend Big Peach Running Company.
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They will videotape you running on a treadmill and playback in slow motion to help you see your foot strike. They have real runners who can lend their experience in making the right selection. They also are great about exchanges when the shoe you think is right for you, doesn’t feel so great after going for a few runs.
If you’re not in Atlanta, search the web for reviews from runners in your area and find a store that is filled with other runners. This does not include mass market sports stores, really look for a running store to be sure you get the attention that you deserve.
Final Thoughts
For those who are more experienced runners, a tip that works well for me is rotating shoes. I have two different shoes (Nikes & Asics) that I rotate on runs. I use the Nikes on shorter runs and Asics on longer runs. While the science is mixed on the difference this makes, my experience is that running in different shoes uses slightly different muscles and reduces injuries. I have been very happy with this strategy and recommend it for more experienced runners who are looking for different injury prevention techniques.
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Have you seen my Vega Sport Review + Giveaway yet? Remember that you can earn an extra entry every day (through Saturday) by tweeting about the giveaway!
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Do you agree or disagree with my suggestions on running shoes? I’m always up for a healthy debate if you have a different opinion.
What has been your experience running shoe shopping – any awesome or terrible experiences to share?
Where do you get your recommendations for running shoes from?
What other questions do you have that you’d like me to answer in the future?
{ 18 comments… read them below or add one }
I agree that shoes do matter when running, but not only for technique and protecting you against injury. I think they can play a psychological difference in your running especially in a race, if you have lighter flats, you may think wow my feet feel really light in this shoes and run a faster race.
Todd recently posted..VeganRun: Missed Tool last night, missing Machine Head tonight, oh well such is life. Though 3/6 is Dropkick Murphys, will not miss that!
Great point! I actually switched to lighter long-distance shoes this year, because I got so used to performance shoes, my Saucony’s just felt heavy. Small weight changes can make your legs feel so much lighter!
I am actually planning on going to Big Peach on my lunch break today. My shoes are about 6 months old and they feel like they’ve stretched out or something. I’m constantly having to tighten the laces which is annoying.
Lee recently posted..Throwing Away Good Food
Awesome – you’ll love Big Peach! I watch the mileage on my shoes and get new ones every 300-500 miles (usually closer to 300 for me).
I definitely did not get the right running shoes for me when I bought the pair I’m using now. I’ve heard so many great things about Big Peach and I’ll be heading straight to them when I’m ready to replace these.
Alayna @ Thyme Bombe recently posted..Bottling our beer
Did you get your shoes at a running store or a “sports store” for the ones you are in now?
It was a running store and they did observe my gait, but the arch it just too high in this shoe and it gives my feet cramps. I think it may also be responsible for some lower back pain. I’ll be replacing these shoes soon for sure.
Alayna @ Thyme Bombe recently posted..Bottling our beer
Ouch! Foot cramps are no fun. :(
100% agree – the first time I got fitted it changed my running life. I rotate shoes and running store. I like Fleet Feet and West Stride too.
I haven’t had a good experience at Fleet Feet, but haven’t ever gone to West Stride. The nice thing about Atlanta is LOTS of options. :)
Yes, shoes really matters in running… You have to choose a running shoes that is gentle on your feet when you are running. Your feet will feel comfortable even after you run if you have the correct shoes used for running.
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Comfortable feet = happy feet!
Absolutely agree that the right running shoe makes a HUGE difference. Another thing to keep in mind is that even if you find a pair of shoes you like, don’t assume they are the exact same when you go back to get a new pair. Many companies ‘tweak’ their shoes with each new release and that tweak may be something that doesn’t fit well for you. Make sure to ask your running store’s expert if anything changed for the new release.
Great point! I’ve been lucky and picked “classics”, but I know you’ve had to switch a few times because of that.
When I first got a good pair of running shoes I didn’t understand what the big deal was… until I put on my OLD shoes to go to a spin class. It is unbelievable! I am so glad I invested in good running shoes. Got them from Big Peach too!
Carol @ Lucky Zucca recently posted..The Hunger Games
I know what you mean, doesn’t seem like it should matter when you’re just getting started! :)
ok, you’ve convinced me! :-) And by the way, I agree, Big Peach is a great store! They are very customer service oriented and you pay no more for the shoe (or at least not by much!). I’ll let you know when I start my Couch to 5!
Oh good – you’ll be happy you get the right shoes. :)