I've gotten quite a few questions lately about which shoes I'm wearing for my marathon training. You've seen them in all my training update posts... they're Mizuno Wave Elixirs—and I swear by them!
I have been a runner since I was in middle school, and I've worn every kind of shoe—Nike, Asics, Brooks, New Balance, Reebok, Adidas, Avia, Pearl Izumi—every major brand but Saucony. My Mizunos are my favorite yet. These are the first shoes I've ever picked that didn't give me blisters or shin splints after just a couple miles. In fact, these shoes are also the ones I've had the best luck with in reference to my toenails (if you're a runner, you know what I'm talking about).
In the past, I've always worn specific styles for support and over-pronation—I wore the Brooks Adrenaline for years—but shoe models made for support have always seemed so bulky to me. When I went in to my local running store (Shu's Idaho Running Company), I asked for something a little more low-profile and fast, but a pair that could still handle all the miles I was going to be running in them. Their associate had me try on several different pairs of shoes and the Mizunos fit the feel I was looking for. They're low(er)-profile, super-lightweight and really quick shoes. I plan on buying a new pair soon so I have a fresh pair for the big race in October.
I think the biggest thing when it comes to running shoes—not gym shoes, but running shoes—is do not buy them because you like the way they look, buy them based on how they feel when you run in them. And don't guess when it comes to running shoes—go to a local specialty running store (not a general fitness shoe store in the mall, so yes, they might be more expensive) and speak to a running specialist who can fit you into a pair of shoes. Tell them what you're looking for, have them measure your step & stride and analyze your foot. They will know what shoes to put you in. Once they bring you a couple pairs to try, put them on and GO FOR A RUN. Literally. Go outside the store and run around the block, around the parking lot, wherever... just run in them for a few minutes. If they don't feel right, they are not the right pair. Once you narrow down what feels right, that's your shoe. And you know what? They might not be pretty. Truly. But if they save your feet, keep your legs shin-splint free, provide support for your knees and ankles, don't give you blisters and don't make your toenails fall off, don't you think that's worth it? I sure do.
Anyway, that's my running soapbox for the day. I've lost one too many toenails and had to pop one too many Ibuprofens for sore knees after runs to not want to share. And just because the brands I listed above didn't work for me, that doesn't mean they won't work for you. Do you have a shoe you swear by? I'd love to hear!
50 comments:
I wondered about this! It was really interesting to have the whole gait/foot analysis thing done when Stephen and I went to get our running shoes a couple weeks ago. I ended up with Brooks Glycerin 11's, and I like them so far! How often do you replace your running shoes?
amen! i hate when people go with a certain brand or look when really every one has different feet and that's why there are so many different shoes.
my husband actually manages a boutique specialty running store in seattle-- it's one of the top running stores in the country, and he was a shoe buyer for quite some time before then. what he tells people over and over, is that the shoe should feel good when you run in it. he never pushes someone on a certain brand, but pushes people to find something that feels really good.
my tip, find a store with a great return policy, too, so if you don't like 'em after putting some mileage on them, you can return them!
buuuut i run in mizunos, too. wave runners. :) i used to be a brooks adrenaline girl all the way too.
Hannah-- it depends on mileage. If you're running a lot- like half to full-marathon training, I'd say not long at all! Basically a shoe will last about 300 to 500 miles-- maybe more, maybe less, depending on how you run. when the padding inside the shoe doesn't feel cushy or spring back when you push into it, they're probably in need of a replacement.
Mine are ok for now, but I definitely need to get fitted when I get new ones. I don't hurt myself in my workout shoes, but in flats and some times heels, I consistently step too far on the outside of my foot and roll my ankle outward. It hurrrrts.
There's a specialty store not too far from me that fits you to your shoes and also helps you select the right shoes for your weight and your running style. I should probably go visit them, since I'm wearing the tread off the bottom of my current running shoes and they're losing their spring. I'm terrible about replacing my shoes regularly.
I have tried basically all brands but Mizunos. I'm still curious about them, your model and the Wave Creation 14s (I think). I know a lot of runners that prefer Mizuno. I just randomly switched to Newtons and holy crap...I may be converted!
Great advice. I have noticed that my normal "Gym" shoes are not very conducive to the running I have been doing.. It may be time to retire these New Balances... I've had them... well.. FOR EVER... they just started getting use now.
YES! THANK YOU!
I worked in a shoe store for several years. I hate hate hate when I see people that over pronate, but don't buy the right shoes for it! Or people that supinate, but they buy shoes for over pronation just because they're pretty. It's not going to be pretty when you need surgery in a few years. Sheesh!
I wish people understand just how much your shoe choice honestly matters! And I think you did a great job pointing it out. :)
I bought my first pair of Saucony's last year and I'm SO glad I did! Like you, I went in to the store and tried on numerous pairs, for me, instead of running around outside the store, I did lunges, squats, running on the spot, running on my tip toes, so I could see if I like them. I wanted something with a lot of cushion and I LOVE my shoes. Saucony ProGrid Guide 5!
Those sound awesome!
xx
Kelly
Sparkles and Shoes
I am a Mizuno girl myself! I did the same thing as you and went to the local store that specializes in athletic shoes to be fit and test a few pairs out. I actually still do not like the color of my shoes, but they are perfect and save my shins (i have always struggled with shin splints). I also have a pair of Adidas Run Natural shoes that I have been running with and I am loving how light weight they are! Thanks for sharing.
I'm going to have to check those out! I am in desperate need of new running shoes!
Great tips! I may have to check these out. I have a pair of sneakers right now that I did not love at first sight because they're blue (so not my fave color), but they have kept my feet quite happy, so I'm happy, too. I do need to replace them soon so maybe I will look for the Mizunos.
I've been meaning to go to a running store for awhile now. I am getting blisters on all my toes and it is impacting my running. My arch on my right foot has been bothering me too. Thank you for the tips! I'm gonna get my booty to the running store this week!
I love my running shoes too. Plus they are cute like mine ;)
Oh thanks u so much for this post!!! I need a good running shoe and was wondering about the best !
I went to the local running store in my town and they put me in the exact same shoes as you! I've had them since March and love them! I'd been getting shin splints with my previous shoes (New Balance) and they went away with my Mizunos. So true about everyone's feet being different, my sister loves her New Balance shoes. PS I also put neon yellow laces in my shoes =) so much better looking than the black they came with!
This post came at such a good time!! I am about to start my marathon training, as I may have mentioned and will definitely be getting some new running shoes after the second week. I'm currently running in Nike Free Runs, but those really only are enough support for a couple miles. For some reason getting fitted at a running store totally slipped my mind and I had figured I would go with my usual Asics. So glad you posted this friendly reminder =)
I can't WAIT to start running again after this baby comes, and to buy new shoes!
Carly
www.lipglossandcrayons.com
I cannot stress how important it is to have proper running shoes. I recently went running in some new shoes and now have nerve damage in my right foot - all because of incorrect shoes. Naughty me. I've been unable to exercise for 4 weeks now and it's driving me insane. I also have a new found appreciation for feet!
This is great! I wanted to go to Shu's when I got my first running shoes, but missed their hours, so I know I'll be going back. I ended up loving the Saucony's I found and am now slowly working on increasing my run time. I'm getting pretty excited thinking about doing another race, and Boise has so many!
I've heard really good things about the Glycerins. Literally, I ran in Brooks for *years*. They are great, great shoes. I wanted to try one of their lower-profile ones too but they were out of stock in the running store. Maybe someday!
And yes, to Erika's comment, she's right. Every 300-500 miles. Before this whole training thing, I never kept track of mileage, so I'd just replace them every year or so (probably too long) but now that I'm tracking it (and you will be, too) I have a better idea. This reminds me--I'm in need of a new pair! I've logged almost 350 miles!! :)
Whaaat, I'm finding new things out about you all the time. How cool! I would love to pick his brain about shoes and wish I could buy from him. You'll have to let me know where the store is so that I can come visit next time I'm in town!!
Thank you so much. So glad you followed up with her right away. You reminded me, I've put over 350 miles on my shoes... time to re-order my shoes so I can get the new ones ready for the big day/!
Oh I know what you mean! I have been having calf issues lately (ugh, the worst, 4 weeks before the marathon!) and the lady who does my PT asked, "Do you EVER wear good shoes?" Because all she sees me in are cardboard-thin Steve Madden flats :) So this week, I'm in tennis shoes all week! I hate the walking ankle-roll. The worst!
That's the best idea, I would totally recommend it. Running specialists know EVERYTHING about that kind of thing. And honestly, it's OK to ask for a second opinion, too :) But yes, especially if your shoes are really worn... it's definitely time! PS> I'm bad about it, too. I usually do it once a year, and that's not enough!
Oh nice! I have never heard of Newtons... you love them? I was so hesitant when the lady helping me pulled out the Mizunos. I was like... "But I really want Brooks!" but then when I ran in them... hooked. It was between them and a pair of Saucony's, and I just loved the feel of the Mizunos. At least try one on next time you go shopping :) But if the Newtons work for you, stick with 'em!
It's across from Green Lake! Super Jock n' Jill. :)
Trust me, I'm the same way. I have a few (actually, a lot... like 10) pairs of gym shoes and only one pair that I use for running. I have lots of old retired ones, but like you, I can't run in gym shoes. It just doesn't work! :)
Thanks Kate! At first, when I saw the "I used to work in a shoe store," I was like, "Oh no! Hope I didn't give bad advice!" But you're so right... the "pretty" factor is just NOT WORTH IT. I think that people don't understand the level of permanent damage they're doing when they run on improper shoes. I have spoken to one too many former runners who have had knee and hip replacements who emphasize SHOES SHOES SHOES! :)
Oh see, that's perfect! You can definitely get a feel when you bounce around in them like that :) I just find it funny when people either A> won't try on a shoe because of how it looks, or B> try it on and only walk over to the mirror to see how it looks. I get that for heels/flats, etc... but not running shoes :) So glad you love your Saucony's!!
Ha! So funny you mention that, Cynthia!! I really REALLY didn't like how my Mizunos looked when I first bought them. I thought they looked like clown shoes... they were so ugly. I think I love them now that they are so good for running... plus I run in the dark half the time, so I can't see them anyway. Ha!
I always had shin splints growing up, too. Isn't it so nice to finally be rid of them?
Yes, check out the Miznunos, but also be so specific about what you're looking for :) Try a whole bunch of stuff! Good luck, Megan!! :)
Nice!! Ha, isn't it so funny how shoes are in so many colors now-a-days, but the ones that are best for us are in our least-favorite colors? I REALLY wanted some neon orange or yellow ones, but got stuck with pink instead. That's why I added the yellow laces, which conveniently coordinated with the Mizuno stripe. But yep, I am not the biggest fan of pink and got stuck with these ones. I really want the light blue ones next time :) ha!
Oh no! Kelly, blisters are the worst. I have pretty much a perma-callus on the right inside ball of my foot from all the blisters that I used to get from my Brooks Adrenalines. And I currently have 3 black toenails (all my fault and two from previous shoes), so trust me... I get the blisters. Get yourself some good shoes that FIT! :)
Thanks so much! Well, I seriously love Mizunos, but they aren't the best for everyone, so make sure to try on a bunch of pairs. Good luck for that holy-grail pair!
HA! How cool!!! I REALLY disliked our shoes' color when I first got them. I was like "Gross! Checkers AND pink! Yuck!" But then my mom and I added the yellow laces because they are our "race laces." And you're right, these are the first shoes that haven't affected my shins at all. It's so peaceful to run without shin splints, huh?! :)
Oh you're so welcome! See, I live by my Nike Frees for the gym. They're the BEST for leg days and interval sprints... THE BEST. But you're right, go more than a few miles and OOH baby, your calves will be aching the next day. Yes, go get fitted and good luck finding the perfect pair. Can't wait to hear how your training begins when you get going with it!
That's so exciting! My mom started running after she had me, and that's what got her going with it. I'm going to use that as my motivation when I have a baby (eventually). I'm so excited for you!!
Brooke, that is so awful, I'm so sorry to hear that! Did you have to go to a physical therapist or doc? That is just awful! Mind if I ask... what kind of shoes were you running in? Will you be able to run again? Thinking of you!
You will love Shu's. The coolest part is that their owner, Mike Shuman, is ALWAYS there. Chat him up, he's a really friendly guy and has the biggest passion for running. I think Saucony's are great and you're doing awesome with your training. Your recent 5k color run photos were so fun :)
What?! MY sister lives ON Green Lake... it's such a small world. If I ran the circle around Green Lake, would I see it?
Yes! Do you know where the Green Lake Starbucks is? It's on the same street-- like half a block over toward Aurora Ave. http://superjocknjill.com/
If you ever go, honestly tell me, and I can hook you up with a little discount!
That would be awesome! I might be planning a trip over in late October/early November and I will have to go. We always get wraps and coffees at that Starbucks. It's like a 2-minute walk from my sister's :)
I had an ultrasound and x-ray done 4 weeks ago to rule out any broken bones or fractures. Next stop was seeing a physio. I've had 4 weeks of physio and finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm still not allowed to hear high heels or exercise but seeing an improvement gives me hope. Nike suck!
HA! I thought I remember you saying that you didnt really like them at first, but like you said, so worth the "ugly" color to be rid of the pain! Happy Running!
Oh man. What a difficult journey. Thank goodness you were proactive about seeking help. Wishing you the best of luck with your recovery!
Yes, you remembered correctly!!! Haha. So funny how things that feel good grow on us like that!
All running shoes are not created equal. Not only can they alter your
speed, but they can also affect your knees, your back and your joints.
http://www.apparelnbags.com/champion/index.htm
Yep! Exactly! That's why I shared why, though I love my shoes, it's so important to seek proper ones for you individual needs :)
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