As I've mentioned in prior posts (To run or not to run and I ran so far away), I am a newbie runner. I log less than 20 miles per week, but even so, my running shoes had worn out, and it was time for a new pair.
One of the things that I cannot emphasize enough it that you get good running shoes! This will make a huge difference in your success, enjoyment, and longevity as a runner. While you may think your run of the mill sneakers are up to the task, if you go out there without the proper support and design for your particular stride, then you will find that you'll develop repetitive stress injuries, and may even get to the point where you cannot run.
Each of us has a stride that is unique. Some of us underpronate (supinate), which means that we tend to run on the outside edge of our foot. There are running shoes specifically designed to compensate for this, and it is well worth the $100 or so dollars to make sure you get the correct shoe. You won't believe the difference it will make in your comfort level while running.
Then there are the people who pronate. This is when your arch flattens out on your down step, so these people need extra arch support in their running shoes. Also, there are varying degrees of pronation and supination, so make sure you get a shoe that works specifically for you.
If you're not sure which kind of stride you have, I recommend that you go to your local running store and have one of the staff members assess your stride. They will do this as a courtesy, and will make sure that you get into the shoe that is best for your needs. Whatever you do, do NOT go to a place like Sports Authority and expect the sales person to make a qualified recommendation on something as important as this. Unless you get really lucky, chances are high that the sales associate has no clue about which shoe does what, and you'll end up with a shoe that might very well open you up to injury. It's just not worth the risk.
To find out more, here is an excellent article on pronation vs. supination.
April 21, 2008
If the shoe fits....
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I couldn't agree with you more. I have been a runner for over 15 years and had dropped my milage significantly over th last 2 years for an ankle injury. When I started back into it, I went with a cheaper pair of shoes from a local shoe store (they were name brand but not my usual running shoe) and I know they wren't right for me. I finaly am back in my New Balance running shoes and its great to be home again!
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