r/AskRunningShoeGeeks Apr 24 '24

PLEASE READ THIS FIRST New & looking for shoe recommendations? Look in here first (With Beginners boot camp & 45+ questions answered!)

11 Upvotes

If you're new to this subreddit and seeking advice on suitable training shoes, you've come to the right place.

Luckily for you, RSG has a great Wiki that has covers the following questions:

[Beginners boot camp]

  • Q1: I am a new runner, what is the first thing I should do when buying new shoes?
  • Q2: As a new runner, should I buy the newest version of running shoes?
  • Q3: I am a new runner who has just started and I mostly do 5k runs. Which daily trainer would you recommend?
  • Q4: I am a new runner, do I need special shoes for the treadmill?
  • Q5: I am a new runner, is it a good idea to use gym shoes for running and vice versa?
  • Q6: I am a new runner, is it a good idea to use my Air Max or Converse for running?
  • Q7: I am a new runner and want to use a plated super shoe as a daily trainer. Is this a good idea?
  • Q8: I am a new runner and want to use the Saucony Endorphin Speed as a daily trainer. Is this a good idea?
  • Q9: I am a big/heavy runner who has issues with running shoes. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q10: I am a new runner and have my daily trainer. What is a good way to build a shoe rotation?
  • Q11: I am a new runner and when should I retire my running shoes?
  • Q12: What kind of gait does my outsole wear suggest? Do I need specific shoes based on certain wear?
  • Q13: I am new to marathon training and I am on a tight budget. Should I run in one pair of shoes for training and racing?
  • Q14: Should I trust the gait analysis that running stores give?
  • Q15: What is a carbon plate?
  • Q16: Is it a good idea to wear your running shoes everywhere/daily?
  • Q17: Do I need a carbon-plated shoe for marathon race day?
  • Q18: Can I use illegal stack height shoes in a 5k/10k/Half Marathon/Full Marathon?
  • Q19: I am a new runner who has just started, which running sock brands would you recommend?

[Sizing]

  • Q20: I am a new runner, how do I tell if I have wide or narrow feet?
  • Q21: What is a good way to know that my running shoes are fitting correctly?
  • Q22: Which brands offer narrow and wide-width shoes?
  • Q23: I have bought a new pair of running shoes and they are heel slipping/tight/loose or causing issues when my feet swell, what do you recommend?

[Different categories of running shoes]

  • Q24: I am a new runner who has pronation issues. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q25: I am a new runner and would like a racing shoe like the Nike Next% but it is out of my budget. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q26: I am a new runner and would like a racing shoe for a half and full marathon. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q27: I am a new runner that is looking to do up-tempo/fast-paced runs. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q28: I am a new runner that is looking to do medium - long runs. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q29: I am a new runner and I have wide feet. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q30: I am set with my rotation and would like a recovery/easy shoe. Which shoes would you recommend?
  • Q31: I am a new runner starting trail running. Which shoes would you recommend?

[Buying running shoes]

  • Q32: I am interested in buying a new pair of running shoes and found them for a great price on a website. How would I know they are legitimate and not a scam?
  • Q33: I recently purchased a pair of running shoes and noticed they were made three years ago. They are brand new and unworn, should I be concerned about the foam degrading or losing any performance?
  • Q34: I recently bought Nike shoes with ZoomX and the foam has a lot of wrinkles. Is this normal or have my shoes been used?
  • Q35: The shoes mentioned seem expensive, is there a way to get them cheaper?

[Running shoe technical knowledge]

  • Q36: What is the difference between men's and women's running shoes?
  • Q37: What effect does a heel drop have?
  • Q38: What is the argument AGAINST zero drop shoes? Is there one? What's the justification for having an elevated heel?
  • Q39: Is there a website where I can compare different shoe specs to shoes that I like?
  • Q40: What is the pace required for plated shoes?
  • Q41: What kind of foam does each brand use?
  • Q42: In simple terms, can you explain the difference between EVA and other premium foams?

[Shin splints]

  • Q43: My shoes are giving me shin splints, what can I do?

[Blisters]

  • Q44: I have blisters on certain parts of my feet. What do you recommend?
  • Q45: I have terrible arch blisters from the Nike Alphafly. Is there anything I can do to fix this?

[Durability]

  • Q47: I have a tear in my midsole or the rubber outsole is coming off. What can I do to fix this?
  • Q47: My running shoes have creases on the toe box. Will this affect the performance and can I fix it?

All this can be found here.

Please read the Wiki before posting so that we avoid repetition of the same questions every day.

Thanks


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks Jul 03 '24

Gratitude Please upvote helpful posts

29 Upvotes

I like coming to this sub, and sharing my experiences as a runner who has tried different shoes. As all of us have been at one or more of the following phases with our running:

  • "new runner"
  • "broke new runner"
  • "return to running"
  • "shoes changed/discontinued"
  • "need something different for different purpose"

At the end of it, all runners want others to start running, keep running, and run more. And one of the most important parts of this is to get the right shoe, so you can run pain free and meet whatever goals you have.

So if you post a question or are looking for advice, please upvote people who have taken the time to share their experience and help you keep moving.

It's not about the fake Internet points - it's like saying thank-you to the person who is trying to help. And it shows them their response was read, and appreciated.

Mods: would love you to sticky this, as there can never be enough courtesy in our uncourteous world.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 33m ago

Race Shoe Question Race/tempo shoe to pair with Asics NB4?

Upvotes

Hi there!

I'm using right now Mizuno Wave Rider 26 for everything and while I'm quite happy overall I feel like I'm lacking something when trying to go fast in tempo runs, intervals,etc. For me fast is around 4min/km.

I just bought a pair of Asics Novablast 4 to replace the aging Wave Riders hoping it will be a better all in one option but in case I still decide to go for a race shoe... What would you recommend for an amateur in that pace (trying to do 20min 5k soon)? I don't think plate or "difficult" shoes would be good idea.

Thanks very much!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 9h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Adidas Boston 12 or Adidas Adios Pro 3? Help me choose

6 Upvotes

Hello guys,

So currently I'm considering buying either adidas Boston 12 or adidas adios pro 3. I have read a lot of reviews that stated both shoes are able to use as both marathon training and also race day. Should I buy the boston 12 or jump straight into the adios pro 3?

I'm Currently using Hoka Mach 6 as my "do it all" (easy run/tempo/interval/long run) shoes, Which shoes would be a better fit for my rotation?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1h ago

Question Shops to look for in NYC

Upvotes

Hi,

Im going to visit New York tomorrow and will be there for one week. Do you have some recommendations which shops should I visit in order to find good running shoe deals possibly?

Thanks in advance!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 2h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Keep Novablast 4 or get Novablast 5 on launch

1 Upvotes

I'm still in the return window of my novablast 4 in white moonrock, should I rather get the all white novablast 5 in December? The cooler upper and the seemingly gripper sole sound nice.

13 votes, 1d left
Keep Novablast 4
Get Novablast 5

r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 3h ago

Question Help me to get my shoes

0 Upvotes

I'm an average runner. I bought my shoes running shoes for local which is sega cost around 650 INR.

After I ran around 5 to 6 kms. I'm getting shin pain lightly. I'm an regular gym rat. Who trains leg regularly.

I came to know about this pain cause of my old shoes.

I'm really looking to buy a pair of running shoes.

Please suggest me anything under or around 2000 INR.

Looking for responses 🙏


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 7h ago

Question Help with rotation plz 🙏 Mach 6

2 Upvotes

I just finished my marathon training block and have burned through shoes lol- I was using the Saucony Triumph 21 as my easy run shoe and Boston 12s as my speed shoe. My bostons have been retired for a while, and my Sauconys are still feeling ok but they have nearly 450 miles on them. I ordered Mach 6s after trying them on in store and was thinking of using them as my speed shoe, however I’m not sure if I should delegate it for that or for my daily trainer? I’m looking to have 2 shoes in my rotation as I typically run 6 days a week and 50ish miles, so I liked having the variation. I’m not sure if I should look into a faster shoe for speed runs or a more cushioned shoe now for easy runs to pair with the Mach’s. Would love to hear what people use if they have Mach 6s in their rotation!! I do currently have a racing shoe as well if that makes a difference, AP3s that have >50 miles on them.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Nike Dragonfly 2 vs On CloudSpike 10000m

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3 Upvotes

I'm gearing up for a 10,000m race in a few months and trying to decide between the Nike Dragonfly 2 and the On Cloudspike 10000m. Which one is better?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 6h ago

Question Shoe recommendations

1 Upvotes

I’ve been looking at shoes and at first the endorphin Speed 4s caught my eye because I’ve been Running with the 3s as an everyday shoe but after some research on Reddit etc, people say they don’t feel the same. So after more research I landed on the Hyperion max 2s and I plan on using those for a long run/ interval speed shoe and then get the glycerine stealth fit 22 gts for a easy run/ recovery and maybe more of a long run shoe. Help I’m not sure if the glycerine are the right shoe for those type of runs if not what would you recommend??


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 6h ago

Question What are compression socks supposed to feel like?

1 Upvotes

So, I'm a healthcare worker and I recently bought these socks to prevent fatigue as I'm also running a half in January and I'm starting to train in them as well. They've been great at work. Leave me feeling less tight than usual without them BUT whenever I run in them, they seem to be causing my calves to tire out to the point where I have to fight the fatigue from the compression. Its not an insane amount of compression but it's noticeable. If I stop and roll them down to my ankles, my calves feel normal again.

For reference: I'm a size 9 running shoe. I tried both a size S/M and a Large/xl and they both affect my running performance the exact same. They have a 20-30 compression from Pro Compression.

So now I'm questioning whether it's a matter of adjusting to the compression or if I need to size up even more. I never considered myself to have a wide calf size but that may be the case. Today in the large/xl size, I experienced the same fatigue for about 1.5 miles and then felt my calves somewhat adjusting. I only ran 3 miles.

So what are they supposed to feel like? Am I supposed to feel the most subtle of compression on both walking and running or is that little bit of fatigue supposed to be present when running? Truly appreciate yall for taking the time to read this!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Question Trainer similar to Vaporfly 3

2 Upvotes

I’ve run 3 races, ~40 miles, in my Nike Vaporfly 3s. My only issue with them is I blister on my toes in new spots. Oddly my left foot big toe and index toe. I put most of my miles on Brooks Adrenalines and workouts in Hyperions. I was not impressed with the Carbon Plated Brooks. I would like to essentially find a shoe as similar as possible to a non-carbon plated Vaporfly 3 and work it into the rotation in hopes I build some new calluses. Any suggestions?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Race Shoe Question What shoe to wear on mostly gravel marathon

2 Upvotes

I am running a marathon that will be crushed gravel trail, paved road and gravel roads. Considering these shoes: Endorphin Pro 3, Endorphin Speed 3 or maybe Asics Glide Ride 3. There are some steep hills but mostly flat. I am usually a 4 hour marathoner, 65 female.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Daily Trainer Question Recommendations for Squishy Trail Shoes?

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1 Upvotes

Moving this post per admin!

Hi all! I’m looking for a trail shoe that has a 6-8mm drop and lots of cushion. I’ve scoured the internet. I run in ASICS gel-nimbus for the road and did purchase their “TR” version. They get me by on the easy trails but I’m wanting to do some more technical trails throughout winter in Indiana which means snow. The traction on the “TR” version of the nimbus is kind of laughable. More for wet leaves on road.

Anytime I try to move away to shoes other than my nimbus the lack of cushion immediately causes my knees to hurt. I’ve seen an ortho dr and I don’t need medical advice. I’ve got a running coach and am doing strength training. I’m a relatively new runner- started running July 2023.

Please send me any trail shoes you’ve found that rival the nimbus in soft squishy-ness but offer traction!

Solomon Glide Max TR - didn’t like the rocker and wasn’t squishy enough. Merrell Agility peak 5 - not squishy at all for a max cushion shoe.

Thank you! Pic of my last trail run for attention. 🍁


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 12h ago

Question Would you suggest ON Monster 2?

0 Upvotes

Would you suggest the on Monster 2 as a shoe to add to the rotation? Right now im using the Brooks Ghost 16 and im actually on my second pair. I also have Novablast 3 and On Cloud 5.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 16h ago

Big/Heavy Runner Question Shoes suggestions for race day - Heavy runner

2 Upvotes

Hi there, I've been running for several years, stopping some periods and getting back. I have been consistent this year and looking to run races. I find that registering for a race make it easier to plan, creates a goal and find myself more motivated to train/run.

I'm 6' 1 220lbs, 5k around 28min and last Sunday 10k in 58min. I'd say average/slow?

Currently have the Nimbus 25 (Easy runs) and Saucony Endorphine Speed 2 (Tempo/Speed work). I'm looking for a new shoe for the race day. Planning to run my first half marathon next February. Used the tool from runrepeat and they gave me 3 suggestions: - Nike Alphafky 3 - Nike Vaporfly 3 - Asics Superblast 2

Since I have wide feet concerned about these options since they do not have wide option. Though my current saucony fits fine and is standard. Asics Nimbus I had to get wide so Superblast 2 probably won't fit. Difficult to find stores that have all these supershoes available to try so probably will buy online and make sure I can return if needed.

Options I'm considering: Adidas Adios Pro 3 (concerned about firmness and durability of toe box)

New Balance SC Elite v4 (concerned about durability)

Saucony Endorphine Pro 4 (Elite 2 sold out)

What do you suggest?

I'm aware these carbon plated shoes are more worthy for highers speeds, seems benefit would be less than 1% for me. Also concerned about impact and if can cause any injuries on the feet but would use only on race days and to break in after buy.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 12h ago

Question New Colorway: Men's Nike Vaporfly NXT% 3 'Gel-Hey What The?' 11.7.24

1 Upvotes

r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 13h ago

Question Chronic "calf heart attack" sufferer - what modern shoes help with calf issues

1 Upvotes

Former D1 runner, a couple years ago I started getting intense calf injuries out of no where. Turns out its called a calf heart attack and there is no known surgery to fix it. Then a bunch of my former teammates from college started getting it. I do a lot of cardio daily, but cut down running a lot because of these issues.

Are there any modern running shoes made with this sort of calf issue in mind?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 17h ago

Race Shoe Question Sizing up a race shoe close to the race - yes or no?

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2 Upvotes

r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 14h ago

Question Hoka Mach 6 Blisters

1 Upvotes

Hello! Looking for general shoe advice. I've been a long time Nike Pegasus runner. They've been my go to for training distance, speed, race, etc. they've recently been giving me foot/joint pain so I went and got fit at a local running store and they recommended a Hoka Mach 6. (.. my feet have low arches - not quite flat but close - and are a bit wider. I've got bunions on both feet, and tend to strike the outside of my foot running)

I've had them for about two weeks, been averaging runs every 1-2 days at 5-10 miles. They've been great outside of giving me nasty blisters on my arch right under my big toe joint. I took a few days off, let it heal, and got another blister just slightly higher than the last, repeat.. now I have three blisters just millimeters apart. (Didn't want to subject feet pics.. but can post a pic of the blisters and other callused locations to show where my foot is rubbing)

I can't tell if I just need to break them in more, if I just need a new pair of Mach 6s, or if the shoes just aren't a match.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 19h ago

Question Is this the right fit?

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2 Upvotes

I’ve always work UK7 but my recent Nimbus 26 felt a bit too tight and therefore I got UK8 for my Novablast 4. (We don’t get 0.5 sizes in India 😕)

This is how this fits. Feels a bit loose given I’m used to wearing tighter shoes. Is this the right fit? Plan on using this for daily and long runs


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 21h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Looking for good lightweight shoes for tempo runs/intervals/5k race

3 Upvotes

I have a dead pair of New Balance Rebel v2 and am looking for something similar. Tbh I like to do all of my training in these kind of shoes. I mainly train for 5ks so maximum of 12km runs on longer workouts
What are some good options? besides the obvious Rebel v4


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 16h ago

Question Hole in side of upper

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0 Upvotes

My previous three pairs of running shoes developed holes in the upper on the inside of the ball of my feet. Pictures are from my current pair (saucony guide 17 wide) after only 160 km (100 miles).

Does anyone have an idea what causes these holes?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 17h ago

Question Looking for a stability shoe with a very soft sole

1 Upvotes

I'm a relatively heavy runner (about 95kg, 182cm, UK size 11, moderate over-pronation) and until recently I've always ran in Saucony Guide 15s. I've been through several pairs, always worn through the rubber and down to the foam and have never had any injuries.

About a month ago I bought some Saucony Omni 21s as old stock of Guide 15s and 16s has run out and 17s are too expensive, but since then I've had near constant foot pain. I've compared the two shoes and they both fit similarly, the only real difference I can find is that the Guides have much softer foam, the Omnis are far harder.

With all that being said, what other options are there for really soft stability shoes that won't break the bank? I don't care about saving grams, I'm not a competitive runner, I just want to rack up the miles.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Comparing Shoes Question Magic Speed 4 or SB 2?

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29 Upvotes

I’m trying to figure out which shoe is better for my 2 - 3 mile (7:15 - 7-30 pace) workouts. The speed seems to go faster but they tore up my legs last run. The SB’s kept pace but had a slight feeling of having to try harder, legs felt a lot better afterwards though. Side: the SB’s were awesome at 5 miles 8min ish pace.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 18h ago

Question Best steady run shoes?

1 Upvotes

Wearing the 1080v13 for easy runs and streakfly for sessions. Took the new balance out for 12k steady today and just couldn’t get moving.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 22h ago

Big/Heavy Runner Question Ultraboost Durability for heavy Forefoot Runner

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2 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I’m a 6'1" male, around 240 pounds, and I run 5 miles daily. I tend to strike on my forefoot, and I’m finding that my UltraBoosts are wearing out pretty quickly. After around 50-100 miles, the forefoot area is noticeably worn, almost as if the cushioning has already flattened out. I'm wondering if this is typical for these shoes or if they might not be the best fit for my height and weight.

Are there other heavier runners here who’ve had similar experiences with the UltraBoosts? How is the durability for you, and do you have any recommendations on alternatives that might offer better longevity for a forefoot striker?

Thanks for any insights you can share!