Running Shoes Advice

jamesfnb

Well-Known Member
Apr 9, 2006
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Anyone recommend a good pair of running shoes? I always hear Asics and New Balance are good. I've been happy with Asics in the past but it's been years since I've ran. Thanks!
 

CyCrazy

Well-Known Member
Dec 17, 2008
27,073
15,312
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Ames
Anyone recommend a good pair of running shoes? I always hear Asics and New Balance are good. I've been happy with Asics in the past but it's been years since I've ran. Thanks!

Asics, they are the best shoe out there.
 

Marc936

Member
Oct 25, 2009
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i would go to a specialty running store, i had a pair of mizunos which are pretty pricey but they were the best running shoes in the world for me when i did cross country, 12 mile runs felt fine on my feet
 

colbycheese

Well-Known Member
Jun 11, 2010
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Kansas
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I don't know where you are but if you're in the Des Moines/Ames area go to a place called Fitness Sports on University Ave. That place has the most knowledgable staff I've ever bought shoes from. They really work hard to get you matched up with a shoe that works well for your foot shape and running style.

As far as shoes go, I use nothing except New Balance - mostly because they're the only company I can get wide running shoes from. The higher the model number on the New Balance shoes, the better quality of shoe it is.
 

Psyclone Brian

Well-Known Member
Apr 11, 2006
4,507
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42°00'50"N 93°
Depends how much you want to spend. Your body weight, distance... etc.
When I was running Marathons, I ran in Saucony's. (not in dept. stores since the early 80's) You'll need to make a mold of your foot and send it in to the company, they will design the shoe for you. Asics are good, New Balance and Nike come in wide sizes to EEEE. Again it's all up to you.
 

CycloneYoda

Well-Known Member
Jan 27, 2009
6,091
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My advise: Go to a shop that specializes in running shoes. Stay out of places like Foot Locker.

Also, just because a few people enjoy their Asics, don't be sold on this talk right away. I hated my Asics, although they were supposed to be "the best." What may be the best for somebody is the worst for another.
 
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CloneAbuse

Active Member
Oct 4, 2009
858
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Clive, IA
I've run in Asics, NB and Mizuno. I loved the Asics Kayano from several years ago, hated the Nimbus. They switched the stitching on the front of the Kayanos and ruined it for me. I've stuck with my Mizunos for the last 3 years and love them.

Whenever I switch to a new shoe (brand or model) I go initially to Fitness Sports. If the shoe is a success. I'll look elsewhere on repeat buys (can be found cheaper sometimes elsewhere).

Depending on how much you're going to run, don't skimp. I usually expect to drop between $100-130 on a good running shoe.
 

HOTDON

Well-Known Member
Mar 24, 2006
3,728
1,902
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Fort Dodge, IA

This this this. The right pair of anything else is far better than the wrong pair of Asics. There is way more science to shoe fits than most people realize. Start with the right type of shoe (neutral, stability or motion control), then get a pair of that style from each brand. Put one brand on each foot and keep replacing the one you like less until you find the right pair. If you can do some jogging in a long aisle on on a treadmill, all the better. Your commitment to the selection should reflect your commitment to the running you'll be doing; if you just want to jog once in a while it's not too big a deal, but if you've agreed to something you'll be training for everyday, take your time and do it right.
 

CloneAbuse

Active Member
Oct 4, 2009
858
28
28
Clive, IA
This this this. The right pair of anything else is far better than the wrong pair of Asics. There is way more science to shoe fits than most people realize. Start with the right type of shoe (neutral, stability or motion control), then get a pair of that style from each brand. Put one brand on each foot and keep replacing the one you like less until you find the right pair. If you can do some jogging in a long aisle on on a treadmill, all the better. Your commitment to the selection should reflect your commitment to the running you'll be doing; if you just want to jog once in a while it's not too big a deal, but if you've agreed to something you'll be training for everyday, take your time and do it right.

Agreed. I've bought from Fitness Sports many times. I'll always run on the treadmill before I hit the road in them. I've taken many back and switched after a few miles on the treadmill. They'll exchange them as long as you haven't logged road miles on them.
 

IcSyU

Well-Known Member
Nov 27, 2007
28,307
6,981
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I've had a bunch of different pairs of running shoes from Saucony to Asics to New Balance to Nike to Reebok, etc. My best advice is to find what's comfortable for you. Some people will swear by any of the above, but from the 10-12 pairs of running shoes I've had from track/cross country/etc., I've liked Nike the most. I've got a pair of Shox for speed and hill workouts, and a pair of Frees for my long distance runs. Get what's comfortable, especially if you want to do any sort of long distance training. In such a case, I'd recommend getting a pair of shoes now, and then another in a month or two and starting to rotate them. I know people who love Saucony or any of the above, but I truly believe it just comes down to preference. Whatever you do, don't get a cheap ****** pair of shoes if you plan on doing any real training. That screams injury.

Like others have mentioned above, Fitness Sports = the best in DSM.
 

timappelgate

Well-Known Member
Apr 9, 2010
2,342
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Cedar Falls, IA
I'm a state and Drake relays calibur runner and now run college track. The Nike free 5.0 v4 is the best shoe I've ever purchased. Just got them.
 

alaskaguy

Well-Known Member
Apr 11, 2006
10,203
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I run quite a few miles and have done so for years. I try to stay away from a shoe that has a lot of support and cushion as they seem to increase my chances of running injuries. I've come to the conclusion that high end running shoes are mostly hype and marketing.
 

motorCYcle

Active Member
Jun 18, 2008
415
57
28
Ames, Iowa
I always got shin splints from 8th-11th grade during track season (we had no track, ran on the streets), but I bought a pair of brooks shoes my senior year and did not get them. Not as widely known, but very good shoes.

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 8
brooks-adrenaline-gts-8-men-042938.jpg
 
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KnappShack

Well-Known Member
May 26, 2008
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Parts Unknown
Anyone recommend a good pair of running shoes? I always hear Asics and New Balance are good. I've been happy with Asics in the past but it's been years since I've ran. Thanks!
Go to an actual running store and have your stride and foot shape analyzed. I can't tell you how many different shoes I tried and had mixed luck. Spend the bucks and get fitted. It doesn't matter what shoe others like. It's what shoe will work for you