Running shoes

For years I wanted to run, but every time I tried to start, the arches of my feet would hurt so much I couldn't make it more than a week.  I was usually good for the 1st or 2nd run of the week, but by the third it would feel like someone was sticking a knife into the arches of my feet and I would have to stop and take my shoes off to get the pain to go away.  (I actually had to get prescription orthotics to correct my problem.  But a properly fit pair of shoes will work for most people).  So obviously, I never did any running.  Luckily, in the last 14 months I've learned a few things about feet and buying running shoes.

There are basically three ways to buy running shoes.  The first method involves going to a sport store like Academy or Sports Authority and picking out the best looking pair of shoes.  You might also buy an expensive shoe thinking that expensive equals better (which is generally true, but it doesn't make it the right shoe for you.)

The second method is slightly more scientific.  You go to a sight like Zappos or Amazon and read user reviews.  You try to make your purchase based on the experience that others have had with certain shoes.

But truly, there is only one correct way to select shoes.  First, you have to know what type of arches you have.  You will either have flat, normal, or high arches.  A different type of shoe is made for each type of arch.  You will run more pain free and more injury free when you get your arch type paired up with the correct shoe type.  You will either need a cushioned or neutral shoe, a stability shoe, or a motion control shoe.  If you want to learn more about arch and shoe types, or to educate yourself and go it alone when buying your shoes, Runner's World has a some great articles and videos explaining arch types and shoe types.  Follow this link: Arch types and shoe types explained.

But there is a better way than trying to go at it alone.  We have two running shoe stores in the Clear Lake area that have trained and experienced runners employed who can help you find the best shoe for you.  The store that I use is On the Run.  Another that is in League City is Runner's Link.  I haven't bought anything from them, but I've been shopping in the store and met the owner.  Seemed like nice people and a well stocked store with all things running.

Here's what to expect if you go to a store like On the Run.  They will ask you some questions about how far, how often, and what type of surface you run on.  They will probably have you walk some for them so that they can see how your feet pronate.  They'll measure your feet (both since they are probably slightly different sizes).  They will probably do a "wet foot" test that will show them what type of arches you have. Then they will recommend several different pairs of shoes.  Try on each shoe and find one that feels comfortable.  They will allow you to take it out for a "test drive."  You can go outside and run around the parking lot in them to make sure it doesn't slip and that it feels as good when you are using it as when you wear it in the store.

Here's a few more reasons to use them instead of ordering online or going to a chain sports store.  The guys and girls that work at running stores are runners.  Most I have met are either on high school or college running teams, or were when they were younger.  You will see them running in the local 5k and 10k races with you (usually much further up in the pack than I am.)  They understand running shoes because they are runners.

Also, On the Run has a 30 day return policy.  Use the shoes for up to 30 days, and if they aren't working out for you, just bring them back in the original box with your receipt.  I bought a pair of shoes from them that they helped me pick out.  I used them for a little over 3 weeks, but the shoes were making my knees hurt.  So I took them back with some berry stains on them and with a little dog mess that I couldn't get out of the tread.  They took a look at them and took them back no questions asked!   Runner's Link told me that they have the same policy.

Another plus at On the Run is their punch card.  Buy 6 pairs and get the 7th free.   You might be able to save $10 on a pair of shoes online.  But the way I look at it, I'll pay a few extra dollars for the service, the return policy, and the punch card.

Expect to pay around a hundred dollars for a pair of shoes when you go.  The shoes should last you about 500-ish miles.  More for lighter runners, less for heavy runners.

Once you find a pair of shoes that work, you may just want to replace it with the same shoe.  Shoe companies update their shoe lineup with new models every year.  So be sure that if you are getting the new model, go try it out before you buy it.  I've seen on some forums that a shoemaker may make small changes in the new model that may make it unusable for people who have been running in the same shoes for years.

One final word of advice about your shoes.   I try to buy my new pair of shoes about 100 miles before I retire the one's I'm currently using.  This allows you to start wearing you new shoes one run each week.  The next month, use them two runs per week.  This will allow your feet and legs to slowly adjust to any differences in your new pair.  It's a lesson I learned the hard way.

Happy trails!!!