Running Shoes

[tech_guy]

Has anyone any advice where to buy a decent pair of running shoes? I've had a look in my local sports shops (J&B, etc) and they all look like they'll last five minutes before falling apart.

[Hightower]

I got a pair of Asics for about £30. Really comfy for running and have lasted about 6 months - still in perfect condition.

[laserblazer]

See if there are any Triathlon or Athletics clubs nearby and ask them for advice. You may find they have special deals with local suppliers.

[PEO]

why? who you running from?

[apoth0r]

Wiggle
Running Shoes | Running Clothes & Run Accessories | Wiggle

[SYNACK]

If you are after running shoes that will last for a while get some 'trail running' shoes. They are more suited to running over grass or gravel but are very rugged in their construction and designed to dry out in hours not days if they get wet.

[tonyd]

It's well worth spending the time in a specialist running shop. They will have equipment and knowledge that will help you in selecting the right pair of shoes. I had no idea about pronation and over pronation before visiting one (I think this is to do with your foot rolling to the inside or outside). With the right gear they can see how you run and what type of support is needed. I must have spent over 1/2 hour trying out different pairs with the help of an assistant who watched me run 30 meters in each pair! So, find and support your local specialist - they know what they're talking about. Runners World's site has details on good pairs of shoes - Runner's World International Shoe Awards - Runner's World Shoes

Oh, and to anwser you question specifically, I've currently got a pair of Brooks that I'm very impressed with, and in the past have had a couple of pairs of New Balance. All bought from specialist running shops...

[dhicks]

I've had a look in my local sports shops (J&B, etc) and they all look like they'll last five minutes before falling apart.

As pointed out above, defiantly find a proper runners shop, with someone there who knows how to analyse your gait and figure out which shoes you'll be wanting. You'll hurt your knees and/or back if you're running on roads without decent shoes. A shop might have a treadmill for you to run on, you might like to find a treadmill and have a quick practice if you don't generally run on one as you move your feet differently.

I have a pair of Asics, cost around £60, and I've generally had the same model of shoe over the years. Bear in mind that if you do an average amount of running, especially on roads, your shoes might need replacing as often as every 6 months or so. I also have a pair of sorbothane inner soles that add extra padding and correct my over-pronating feet - those last for ages, much longer than a pair of shoes, so you can swap them into new shoes.

I've never felt the need to buy any other running accessories, although the average running shop is stuffed with knick-knacks - fancy "performance" socks (?), running tops / bottoms (generally, for some reason best left forgotten, made from lycra), rucksacks, etc. Rucksacks, especially, still fall apart after a few months if you're carrying anything much in them, and are hugely overpriced in running shops - buy a cheap one off the market, they're just as good and when it falls apart you can simply get a new one.

--
David Hicks

[tech_guy]

why? who you running from?

This dude:

[GrumbleDook]

I used to love Brooks, but had a bad pair a few years back that gave me serious grief so I switched to Reebok ... then my knee went (through not wearing decent running shoes ... wearing boots!) and I don't need decent running shoes anymore.

I am in the market for a decent pair for light work in the gym that provide support and comport but begrudge going into a fashion store and getting a second mortgage for something only 70s New York pimp would wear.

The store I used to mail order from is gone but it is good to see Bourne Sports is still around. I will be phoning them shortly ow that this thread had nudged me.

[altecsole]

I can echo the replies about getting proper advice. It's vital to get a shoe that suits your foot type and running style.

It might cost a bit more for your first pair, but once you've found out what suits you you'll find the same shoes much cheaper online.