Running shoes?

[jiminy.cricket]

My toes are actually getting a bit beaten up from time to time in my sneakers during runs. I'm actually thinking about trying out the Invisible Shoe. It's about as close as I can get to running barefoot without actually running barefoot. Has anyone tried it? What were your thoughts? What are your opinions on various shoes?

[thylightguy]

Personally I prefer tennis shoes, because I don't like the feeling of things between my toes. Those who can get over that feeling say that the footwear you are talking about is definitely the best way to run... but I disagree. Nike Air Max's have always been my preference for running shoes.

[adkkev]

if your toes are getting beat up then your shoes don't fit properly. That should not be happening. Did you get your shoes fitted at a running shoe store? What kind of socks are you wearing?

If you want to try the minimalist thing then I suggest going for something that's still a running shoe but has a low heel to toe drop, 4mm or less. Brooks Pure series is like that ... I believe Saucony's Kinvara is that way too. Or you can try Innov8 but I don't believe they have much cushioning at all. Or go with Altra ... their new version of the Instinct is supposed to be pretty good (Instinct 1.5) and it has a zero heel drop. Bot the Brooks & Altras have anatomically shaped toe boxes so you have plenty of room for your toes.

I run in Brook Pure Flows most of the time for my road running. For trail runs I use a more typical trail shoe with a 10mm drop (Montrails).

[cewait]

DO NOT change to a minimalist shoe this close to your race. Check your shoe laces before heading to the store. Too loose is just as bad as too tight. With time the toe end of the laces will loosen and allow the forefoot to bang into the top and front of the shoe. Also, make sure your nails are kept short.

[Princess on the Run]

I am an avid Vibram 5Finger girl, but I echo a PP who said not to switch to barefoot running this close to your race. You need to transition VERY slowly or you can seriously screw yourself up. I am a natural toe walker (always have been) and when I'm not in high heels, I walk barefoot on my toes. So they were a true fit for me. But still, one mile at a time until you're used to it. You have to be a pure ball strike because you have nothing under your heel to cushion a slight heel strike. I do love them and would encourage anyone to try it, but I would not plan 26.2 only a month after starting them.

Go to a reputable running store and see if they can find you a good fit for next month and then pick up a pair of minimalist shoes to train with for the next one.

[goofeygirl]

I went to an actuall running store that measured my foot...using treadmills and foam cushions ect. I ended up with a pair of sneakers I love!
I also buy the proper socks too...I mean if you are going to do this then make sure your feet are comfortable first!

And I agree with the other poster - don't change things that close to a race...gosh imagine the horror if they were dreadful by mile 5!

[Tiger Lily 03]

I do not really have much to add to the advice already given. I was fitted by a factory rep for the brand of shoes I always seem to go back to since I really feel most comfortable in them. The factory rep however fit me a bit too small. The running store analyst increased my size and helped me to change the way I lace up so all is good for me. I have lost a nail or 2 during the shoe process. Now with trim nails and bit bigger shoe, with the lace tying I like all seems much better.

Good luck with your journey. I have read that the minimalist shoes are not for everyone and I know I would never find them something I could even pretend to walk around the block with good results. Hope they work for you once you've had time to get them going.

[jiminy.cricket]

Thank you so much for all of the tips and advice! I will check out the Kinvaras and the running shoes with minimal soles. I have heard of the 4 mm soles. I'm thinking maybe I'll work my way up to a marathon in tennis shoes first, then try working my way up from scratch in a new kind of shoe.

I didn't feel that my current shoes were too tight or too loose, but I'm now wondering if they are. I'm not sure how long I've had them; maybe five years? Maybe I'll have to visit a specialized running shoe store.

I have flat feet and most of the friction seems to arise between the tips of my toes and the shoe. A few of my toenails have recently taken a few hits after I went on a sort-of power spree on a treadmill; I was trying to avoid that. It doesn't happen so much when I run outdoors, which I'm thankfully still able to do. I wonder how I'll train in January and February. I am keeping my nails short, but perhaps not short enough. I guess I should go shorter.

One person suggested taping my foot to the shoe sole or donning thinner socks. Maybe I'll try that too!

[cewait]

Originally Posted by jiminy.cricket

I didn't feel that my current shoes were too tight or too loose, but I'm now wondering if they are. I'm not sure how long I've had them; maybe five years? Maybe I'll have to visit a specialized running shoe store.

Whoa...

Just read your blog and realize that you are not running this upcoming marathon... So I HIGHLY suggest that you run to a Running Store and get fitted with a pair of shoes designed specifically for your stride style. Do this SOON as running in a pair of 5 yo shoes is a ticket to the orthopedic for joint issues.

I would suggest forgetting minimalist does for 3-5 years at a minimum. Folks with flat feet and I suspect an over pronating foot are asking for trouble in these shoes. It does not mean that you will never be able to run in them, but you need to have a neutral style stride to minimize the potential of injury.

Good luck in your training and keep smiling as you run.

[jiminy.cricket]

Thanks for the information! I'm planning on finding and visiting a clinic sometime in the new year to be fitted for shoes. Yeah; I'm definitely planning on making minimalist running more of a long-term goal now. I actually spontaneously decided to do a light run barefoot on the treadmill last night, which rendered my feet black and blistered. Not a good idea. Will not be doing anything barefoot or minimalist anytime soon. My soles are feeling a bit better today. Mostly smiles here! Happy Holidays!

[jiminy.cricket]

I'm too excited not to share! I finally got to a running store. My feet were scanned (completely flat and oddly-shaped) and my gait watched. The associate was completely friendly and answered all my questions in detail. He brought some shoes for me to try and stated that my decision ultimately amounted to the feel (New Balance, Brooks, Newtons). I learned a lot and ultimately sprang for the Newton Motion! It felt so exciting! I'm just afraid to wear them now.

[Desiree]

Originally Posted by jiminy.cricket

I'm too excited not to share! I finally got to a running store. My feet were scanned (completely flat and oddly-shaped) and my gait watched. The associate was completely friendly and answered all my questions in detail. He brought some shoes for me to try and stated that my decision ultimately amounted to the feel (New Balance, Brooks, Newtons). I learned a lot and ultimately sprang for the Newton Motion! It felt so exciting! I'm just afraid to wear them now.

Awesome! Let us know how they do for you!