Advice on New Running Shoes

Glen_Quagmire

Hi All,

Been going the gym a couple of years now but mainly being lifting weights and doing a small bit of cardio.

I have picked up an injury in my hand which is keeping me away from the weights at the moment so I've been doing more cardio lately such as cross trainer, bike and running on the treadmill.

I have a pair of Sketchers Go-Run which I have about 2 years but I am looking to get a new pair of running shoes which I will mainly use in the gym on the treadmill and possibly outdoors when the weather improves.

Looking for suggestions for a good pair of runners please.

I've seen some on Amazon such as the New Balance 720v3, 780v4 and also 450v3 going for a reduced price of only around €35.

There is also the ASICS Gel-Zaraca 4 going for about €50. Lots to choose from really but I have no clue what I should go for..?

Would any of these I have mentioned be worth a punt or should I invest in something for €150 mark or does it really make any odds?

I must add that I do find I am getting shin splint pains around my ankle area while running for more than 20 mins at the moment. Not sure if that is down to my current shoes or lack of running I have been doing over the last few years. Its probably both!

sconhome

All the shoes you mention are reasonable shoes in their own right but there is no way anyone on the internet can recommend which is right for you.

Shin splints can be as you say, down to lack of running, pushing too hard, doing too much treadmill or footwear. Treadmill is a killer for shins as you are continually controlling the movement of the foot to match the belt putting more use on the muscles = over use.

sconhome

All the shoes you mention are reasonable shoes in their own right but there is no way anyone on the internet can recommend which is right for you.

Shin splints can be as you say, down to lack of running, pushing too hard, doing too much treadmill or footwear. Treadmill is a killer for shins as you are continually controlling the movement of the foot to match the belt putting more use on the muscles = over use.

Glen_Quagmire

sconhome wrote:

All the shoes you mention are reasonable shoes in their own right but there is no way anyone on the internet can recommend which is right for you.

How do I determine what shoes are best for me? Do I need to get a gait analysis done or is that going too far?

aquinn

Glen_Quagmire wrote:

How do I determine what shoes are best for me? Do I need to get a gait analysis done or is that going too far?

Gait analysis not too far at all. Much better to be in runners that suit you rather than ones that don't and lead to issues.

Where are you based and you'll get run shop suggestions.

Glen_Quagmire

I'm based in Finglas in Dublin

How much does a gait analysis cost?

Boom_Bap

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

I'm based in Finglas in Dublin

How much does a gait analysis cost?

The Lifestyle in the Pavillions in Swords and the one in Blanch does gait analysis. Not Charlestown unfortunately. I'd say they are the closest spots that are not in the city.

Glen_Quagmire

Boom_Bap wrote:

The Lifestyle in the Pavillions in Swords and the one in Blanch does gait analysis. Not Charlestown unfortunately. I'd say they are the closest spots that are not in the city.

Any idea what the cost is?

aquinn

Glen_Quagmire wrote:

How much does a gait analysis cost?

It's free.

Glen_Quagmire wrote:

I'm based in Finglas in Dublin

Elverys and Lifestyle put you on a treadmill. Go to the run hub in Ashtown as they have a track in the shop and are excellent.

Murph_D

I think it's always best to pop over to a genuine running shop like the Run Hub in Ashtown where the staff are runners themselves rather than professional shoe salespeople (although they are that too). They should be able to help you pick something suitable in your price bracket.

Coffee Fulled Runner

Also you run different on a treadmill than on a track so it's always best to get gait analysis in places where they get you to run on a track. They will most likely be runners too and you should get better advice.

Boom_Bap

ooooohhhhh, I didn't know about the Run Hub. I must check that out sometime.

Glen_Quagmire

Coffee Fulled Runner wrote:

Also you run different on a treadmill than on a track so it's always best to get gait analysis in places where they get you to run on a track. They will most likely be runners too and you should get better advice.

I would say most of my running will be on a treadmill though, and on the road / park. I doubt I'll ever run on a track

ThisRegard

Boom_Bap wrote: »

The Lifestyle in the Pavillions in Swords and the one in Blanch does gait analysis. Not Charlestown unfortunately. I'd say they are the closest spots that are not in the city.

From Finglas the closest would probably be The Runhub in Ashtown.

Murtinho

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

I'm based in Finglas in Dublin

How much does a gait analysis cost?

Its free, but your kind of "morally obliged" to buy runners off them. Nothing stopping you getting the same runners somewhere else in future of course when they wear out and if your happy with them.
I got it done at Amphibian King/Base2race in Ballymount and they were great.

Glen_Quagmire

Murtinho wrote:

Its free, but your kind of "morally obliged" to buy runners off them. Nothing stopping you getting the same runners somewhere else in future of course when they wear out and if your happy with them. I got it done at Amphibian King/Base2race in Ballymount and they were great.

And would these guys try persuade you to buy the dearest shoes on the shop?

aquinn

Glen_Quagmire wrote:

And would these guys try persuade you to buy the dearest shoes on the shop?

No, not at all. The cheapest or dearest isn't what it's about. They are recommending runners for your running style.

Coffee Fulled Runner

You are either on your feet or in bed so its always good to invest in good shoes and a good mattress. But with running shoes it's not necessary the most expensive it's all about getting shoes that suit you. You might be able to save €10 or €20 buying your shoes online but going to a store where you get proper gait analysis is a well worth investment.

annapr

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

And would these guys try persuade you to buy the dearest shoes on the shop?

No, they are very good. They have even suggested to me before that I could try the shoes out on a treadmill and bring them back if not comfortable. They have a big selection and are very patient with helping you find the right fit. And you're not morally obliged!

Firedance

annapr wrote: »

No, they are very good. They have even suggested to me before that I could try the shoes out on a treadmill and bring them back if not comfortable. They have a big selection and are very patient with helping you find the right fit. And you're not morally obliged!

+ 1 to the run hub, last time I was in the runners that suited best were the cheapest of the selection I'd tested .

Murph_D

No harm in "shopping around" with the gait analysis to see if the result is the same everywhere. A few years ago I got quite different results from two reputable running shops. Be aware too that there isn't much scientific support for the proposition that wearing support shoes to correct pronantion leads to either fewer injuries or better performance (at least there wasn't the last time I checked). Still best to go to a proper running shop though, because they generally have a better range available and tend to be more knowledgeable about running specifics.

sconhome

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

How do I determine what shoes are best for me? Do I need to get a gait analysis done or is that going too far?

Sorry, yes getting fitted is the best way to find out what is right. I made the mistake when I started out "I'm not really running" (some argue I'm still not) and bargain bin was good enough.

A few injuries and on the point of "nope, not meant to be running" and I was recommended to get fitted properly. Best money I ever invested.

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

I'm based in Finglas in Dublin

How much does a gait analysis cost?

Analysis is and should be free. It is a tool to help you figure out which shoes are the right ones for what you are doing. Some use it to justify the most expensive shoes or insoles.

The lads in the Run Hub are closest to you and know what they are about.

To answer another query the reason a hard surface track is preferred for analysis is there is less spring than a treadmill. Once you are fitted on the hard surface you can rest easy knowing your shoes are right for road or treadmill.

Best of luck.

tang1

Murph_D wrote: »

No harm in "shopping around" with the gait analysis to see if the result is the same everywhere. A few years ago I got quite different results from two reputable running shops. Be aware too that there isn't much scientific support for the proposition that wearing support shoes to correct pronantion leads to either fewer injuries or better performance (at least there wasn't the last time I checked).

Good point that, I would have ran in strictly neutral shoes since I started running and thought I could run in nothing else. Bought a pair of stability shoes before Christmas cause they felt good. Have gotten on so well with them that I got a second pair and they will be my marathon runner for Rotterdam. Even though I was told I would NEVER be able to run in a stability runner after getting gait analysis done.

panda100

Anyone know the best place in Limerick to get running shoes? I know Elverys does that gait analysis but I'm not sure if the staff know that much about good running shoes.

sconhome

tang1 wrote: »

Good point that, I would have ran in strictly neutral shoes since I started running and thought I could run in nothing else. Bought a pair of stability shoes before Christmas cause they felt good. Have gotten on so well with them that I got a second pair and they will be my marathon runner for Rotterdam. Even though I was told I would NEVER be able to run in a stability runner after getting gait analysis done.

Comes down to the person you are talking to.

Most gait analysis is prescriptive and bears no consideration of the running history. You are likely to run perfectly fine in a neutral shoe but repeated long runs can leave a person fatigued and open to niggles. Introducing a guidance shoe for long runs would sort this out.

Variety being the spice of life.

Coffee Fulled Runner

panda100 wrote: »

Anyone know the best place in Limerick to get running shoes? I know Elverys does that gait analysis but I'm not sure if the staff know that much about good running shoes.

Not sure if it's still open but Amphibian King West, Unit 3, Q Retail Park, Childers Rd, Roxboro, Co. Limerick. They have a shop in Galway too.

sconhome

Coffee Fulled Runner wrote: »

Not sure if it's still open but Amphibian King West, Unit 3, Q Retail Park, Childers Rd, Roxboro, Co. Limerick. They have a shop in Galway too.

Closed in 2014. Most people make the trip up to Oranmore from Limerick & Clare.

panda100

sconhome wrote:

Closed in 2014. Most people make the trip up to Oranmore from Limerick & Clare.

Ya amphibian king in limerick closed. Is it worth making the trek up to Oranmore so?

Ceepo

sconhome wrote: »

Comes down to the person you are talking to.

You are likely to run perfectly fine in a neutral shoe but repeated long runs can leave a person fatigued and open to niggles. Introducing a guidance shoe for long runs would sort this out.

Any data/study to back this up?

tunney

panda100 wrote: »

Ya amphibian king in limerick closed. Is it worth making the trek up to Oranmore so?

I live in Dublin and I get mine from oranmore so yes, yes it is.

sconhome

Ceepo wrote: »

Any data/study to back this up?

What would you like to know?

Years of observation & experience allow me to say with confidence that most people can run in a neutral shoe without too many problems. When problems arise they generally are a manifestation of strength and stability issues in the core of the body and less at the feet.

You will see over the next few years a wholesale trend away from the 'pronation' model of fitting shoes to a more holistic approach which identifies weaknesses in the form of the runner but takes into consideration the surface, regularity, distance of runs and the individuals history.

I've always said the wet foot approach is rubbish and does nothing for the dynamic view of the runner.

Regarding neutral & guidance shoes take a person who normally runs in a neutral shoe. When they start stretching their run distance and volume the stress and fatigue on the body increases.

Taking the traditional LSR approach, ground contact time increases at slower paces and cadences so introducing a guidance shoe (can simply be a stiffer neutral shoe) will help the body recover from the increased loading caused by LSR.

EDIT: sorry, to add Ceepo and address your question, there are studies and papers done, most are by footwear manufacturers so should be read with caution. I'm talking from an impartial position regarding running footwear in general and how they are different.

Ceepo

sconhome wrote: »

What would you like to know?

Years of observation & experience allow me to say with confidence that most people can run in a neutral shoe without too many problems. When problems arise they generally are a manifestation of strength and stability issues in the core of the body and less at the feet.

You will see over the next few years a wholesale trend away from the 'pronation' model of fitting shoes to a more holistic approach which identifies weaknesses in the form of the runner but takes into consideration the surface, regularity, distance of runs and the individuals history.

I've always said the wet foot approach is rubbish and does nothing for the dynamic view of the runner.

Regarding neutral & guidance shoes take a person who normally runs in a neutral shoe. When they start stretching their run distance and volume the stress and fatigue on the body increases.

Taking the traditional LSR approach, ground contact time increases at slower paces and cadences so introducing a guidance shoe (can simply be a stiffer neutral shoe) will help the body recover from the increased loading caused by LSR.

EDIT: sorry, to add Ceepo and address your question, there are studies and papers done, most are by footwear manufacturers so should be read with caution. I'm talking from an impartial position regarding running footwear in general and how they are different.

Thanks for the reply.
Basically what I want to know was if you had any data or scientific evidence to back up your statement. I am not in anyway taking away from your own observation or experience in this area.

Yes of course when someone "ups" their milage it will place added stresses on the body however if this is done in the proper way the body will adapt to the extra stresses placed on it. Whether or not ground contact is extended and cadences are slower is something that is debatable as usually the stride length is shorter however this is more of an individual thing. And while agree that the "core" plays a vital role in the stability it is only that a role. What is nearly always overlooked is the muscle function or disfunction in the foot itself as is the strengths and weaknesses of the leg and hip.

As for where the industry is going. You know a lot more about that than most on here but no doubt it will follow where the market is if history is anything to go on.

Glen_Quagmire

I'm confused now...

Should I get the gait analysis done or and buy a pair of shoes that the shop recommend or just buy a pair of neutral shoes?

Murph_D

tang1 wrote: »

Good point that, I would have ran in strictly neutral shoes since I started running and thought I could run in nothing else. Bought a pair of stability shoes before Christmas cause they felt good. Have gotten on so well with them that I got a second pair and they will be my marathon runner for Rotterdam. Even though I was told I would NEVER be able to run in a stability runner after getting gait analysis done.

That would track with one study I read about - basically people get fewer injuries if wearing shoes that instinctively feel "right" to them.

sconhome

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

I'm confused now...

Should I get the gait analysis done or and buy a pair of shoes that the shop recommend or just buy a pair of neutral shoes?

Sorry my fault for confusing things.

Get the analysis done, it costs nothing and you will then be able to work from there. You have a little bit of history with the shin issues that may or may not be caused by your shoes. The video analysis will help determine if the footwear is the cause of that.

My comments above ^^ are more to do with people already running and increasing mileage on a steady basis and their reaction to different footwear.

Glen_Quagmire

sconhome wrote:

Sorry my fault for confusing things.

sconhome wrote:

Get the analysis done, it costs nothing and you will then be able to work from there. You have a little bit of history with the shin issues that may or may not be caused by your shoes. The video analysis will help determine if the footwear is the cause of that.

sconhome wrote:

My comments above ^^ are more to do with people already running and increasing mileage on a steady basis and their reaction to different footwear.

Cheers, I'll book myself in for an appointment so.

My target now is the Samsung 10k night run so good footwear is the place to start!

Singer

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

My target now is the Samsung 10k night run so good footwear is the place to start!

It looks like that's no longer being run:
http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showpost.php?p=98435851&postcount=228

If you're looking for a 10k around Dublin in April, check out the Great Ireland Run and the BHAA K Club 10k.

Glen_Quagmire

Singer wrote:

It looks like that's no longer being run:

Singer wrote:

If you're looking for a 10k around Dublin in April, check out the Great Ireland Run and the BHAA K Club 10k.

Ah that's a shame I heard that was a good run.

Thanks I'll check out those other two out instead.

Glen_Quagmire

Went to the run hub and had the gait analysis done.

Ended up getting a pair of running shoes suited to my running style. Very same shoes could be got on amazon for 40 quid less, and up to 60 less for different colours but I suppose I am paying for the service provided by the run hub with advice from actual runners and the gait analysis.

I would have liking to save myself a few quid and getting them in amazon but it's also good to help out local guys running a business and keeping the money in the local economy.

paulers06

Now that you know what kind of runner you are (neutral, pronator etc) you'll able to buy online. Definitely best to pay for the advice at the beginning

Chasing Shadows

Sorry for jumping on this thread but has anyone every gotten the analysis,advice etc and after a few runs the shoes just not been right? I'm suffering with blisters today 😒 and not sure what to do!

Glen_Quagmire

Chasing Shadows wrote:

Sorry for jumping on this thread but has anyone every gotten the analysis,advice etc and after a few runs the shoes just not been right? I'm suffering with blisters today 😒 and not sure what to do!

I'm very new to running so others may be better placed to advise but first thing I would look at is what socks are you wearing? Also are your shoes tight enough?

tang1

Chasing Shadows wrote: »

Sorry for jumping on this thread but has anyone every gotten the analysis,advice etc and after a few runs the shoes just not been right? I'm suffering with blisters today 😒 and not sure what to do!

If it's a reputable shop I'd say they would have no issue replacing and finding a more adequate shoe for you going on past experience.

Chasing Shadows

Thanks for the advice!
Have worn them with normal socks and found them uncomfortable around ball of foot and side. Ran with cushioned running socks today and got blistered.

Store was reputable, I think I didn't spend enough time in the shoes in the store. Don't have box or receipt so think I will chalk this down to experience!

Good luck with the shores and running OP!

sconhome

Glen_Quagmire wrote: »

I'm very new to running so others may be better placed to advise but first thing I would look at is what socks are you wearing? Also are your shoes tight enough?

Running shoes should not be tight.

tang1 wrote: »

If it's a reputable shop I'd say they would have no issue replacing and finding a more adequate shoe for you going on past experience.

100% Absolutely no running store worth their salt will have a problem with this. They are there to sort you out as a runner not a sale.

Chasing Shadows wrote: »

Thanks for the advice!
Have worn them with normal socks and found them uncomfortable around ball of foot and side. Ran with cushioned running socks today and got blistered.

Socks can be hugely different, ignore the labelling on socks and ensure for running that any sock is cotton free.

Chasing Shadows wrote: »

Store was reputable, I think I didn't spend enough time in the shoes in the store. Don't have box or receipt so think I will chalk this down to experience!

Don't name any names but if it is an independent specialist store they will have most likely have no issue with you not having a box or receipt.

If it is a multiple sports store with a running department you may be in trouble.

sconhome

paulers06 wrote: »

Now that you know what kind of runner you are (neutral, pronator etc) you'll able to buy online. Definitely best to pay for the advice at the beginning

TBH you are not paying for the advice. You are paying for a local business that is paying tax and rates and employing people and charging a RRP for a product. There is no premium being charged by a running specialist for the service they provide.

You get none of that from online.The one thing to be wary of is that sizing can change from season to season in the same shoe, structures and feel can change also.

If you're buying like for like absolutely grab a bargain if you can find it.