Question regarding running and shoes?

[adh]

For those who may have the experience/knowledge.

OK, so I run (not nearly as much as I used to because my knee started to hurt). I average about 8-9 miles a week (I run three evenings a week). I was told I shuold be buying new running shoes at least every six months and maybe every four. Every 4 seems excessive, and every 6 months just makes me sit back and ask really? Any advice here is appreciated. I'd also like to know if anyone has a line on good running shoes that aren't so darn costly. Seems like you can get a pretty basic pair of shoes for about $45-$50 especially if something is on sale, but more of the high end gear is over $100.

Thanks for any help.

ADH

[ZDL]

Hope this helps. Generally running shoes are garbage by design. A few video presentations on running and its science/theory.

http://www.crossfit.com/cf-info/excercise.html#Run

[geminidglocker]

Before I was "damaged" I used to run a lot. I found that it was beneficial to read the running magazines. A good tip I learned was to buy two pair of running shoes. Alternate them, like combat boots, so that they have time in between use to dry. A wet running shoe on average, has only 25-30% the cushioning ability of a dry shoe. Also, know your foot type and shop accordingly. When it comes to saving money, I have found Asics to be reasonably priced, and comfotable too. I'd like to think I know what I'm talking about. I used to be able to run ten miles in ninety minutes. I was no Ranger, but I aspired to be one. As far as the knee problem, good luck. Don't hesitate to visit a doctor for specialist advice. I wish I had. I now have chronic knee strain in both knees. Don't over do it.

[ZDL]

If you need cushioning to run you are running wrong. If you injured yourself while running you are running wrong. I'm very sorry for your injuries, I see it often and it's sad, but it has little to do with shoes. Form is the #1 reason why people hate running. Sad part is they don't know that's why they hate it. Modern day shoes do promote bad running form so they can partially be blamed.

Run barefoot, as hard as you normally would in your cushy shoes. I promise your form will change drastically and quickly. You will not be able to slam down on the heels like the lion's share of runners do.

Also, barefoot will cause the foot to drop under the hips and on the front instead of out in front of the hips and on the heel resulting is less exerted effort and more efficient running.

Just some things I've learned along the way.

I'm not suggesting running barefoot exclusively. I did for a while until correct form was part of my instinct. Then went back to shoes. I still run barefoot often but conditions have to be right.

[LittleRedToyota]

i think you should go by miles, not time.

seems most people who should know recommend replacing them about every 300 to 600 miles. personally, i find mine generally wear out closer to the lower end of that range, but i am pretty heavy by runner standards.

at 9 miles a week, you are only up to 234 miles by 6 months. so, it would seem that, 6 months would be plenty often enough and you could prolly get away with replacing them less often. you might even be able to get a whole year out of them.

on a side note, one of the better decisions i have made in my life is to stop buying my running shoes at big box sporting goods stores like dick's, dunham's, etc. and found a local store that actually specializes in running (here in pittsburgh, there is a good one called "elite runners and walkers").

the store is staffed by actual runners with actual training in the physiology of running. they watch you run and do some tests and figure out what shoe is actually right for you.

i used to get shin splints from time to time as well as heel bruises, sore arches, etc. but since i started going to the specialty store, i have zero such problems.

it isn't so much a question of brand, but some people over-pronate, some are heel strikers, etc. you need a shoe that is designed for how your foot contacts the ground.

the store around here even has competetive prices on their shoes (and they definitely do not let the price of the shoe factor into their recommendations), but personally, i would go there even if they were more expensive. for me, at least, being able to make sure i get the right shoe...and thus avoid shin splints, etc...is well worth the extra money.

[adh]

Thanks for all the input. The cross fit presentations as well as your commentary ZDL are very much in sync with one another. Considering where my shoes wear, I am definitely running heal to toe rather than on the balls of my feet. I will have to try to work on that.

Thanks for all the input.

[Littlelebowski]

Try some of the off brands like Mizuno and Saucony.

[NoBody]

Deleted.

[LittleRedToyota]

Try some of the off brands like Mizuno and Saucony.

man...about 8 years ago, i had a pair of sauconys that were the best running shoes i have ever had by a good margin. felt like there was nothing on my feet and it felt like running on air.

come time to get new shoes, i just wanted to get a new pair of those shoes...but saucony completely redesigned the shoe and ruined it

my last 10 or so pairs have been new balance and have been great shoes, but not like that one pair of sauconys.

moral of the story...if you find a particular running shoe that works really well for you...consider buying several pair of them while you still can.

[iroc_dis]

I'd recommend finding a good running shoe store near you, like a Fleet Feet Sports or similar. FFS will analyze your gait on a treadmill and fit you shoes that match your running style.