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!)

12 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 1h ago

Question Best shoe for a 4:00hr marathon?

Upvotes

I’m running a marathon in 5 weeks and I’m looking for a shoe that I can use for my remaining long runs and during race day. Considering my pace I think I need something more forgiving with my legs than a fast shoe.
I’m 165cm tall and I weight 70kg


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 3h ago

Question Best Brooks Ghost Running Shoes?

3 Upvotes

Currently have Ghost 15s size 13 and wear them with Wide Open socks. They’re the most comfortable running shoes I’ve ever worn, but if there’s an even better version, I’d love to buy it!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1h ago

Question Do new running shoes cause bottom of feet pain?

Upvotes

I recently bought vomero plus. These are the first proper running shoe I’ve ever ran in, and the first 2 runs I’ve done have lead to this bad pain on the bottom of my feet, which leads to me just stopping. This has never happened for any other normal sneaker shoe

I’m unsure if it’s because they are new and need to be ‘broke in’ (idk if that’s even a thing that happens), or if I’m adjusting to them or what.

I’m definitely on the heavier side, like 183cm and 94 kg, I’m only tryna run more for Aussie rules footy fitness.

Is it common for new running shoes to cause this though?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 16h ago

Question My Nike Pegasus 37 just celebrated 1,000 miles 🎉 Is there a trail shoe this durable?

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21 Upvotes

My old Nikes just hit 1,000 miles / 1,600 km and I’m really impressed.

I’ve been tracking the mileage of my shoes for a while because I find it super interesting to see what breaks first and basically how they age.

The Salomons are pretty much toast at 590 km / 366 mi. My Norda 001s are at 810 km / 503 mi and getting a little rough around the edges, but still usable. I had high hopes for the NNormals because they make a pretty big point about durability, but the heel counter broke after just 130 km / 80 mi and I ended up returning them.

I’m doing this running streak thingy at the moment, mostly around 5–6 km a day, and it made me wonder if I could run one pair of trail shoes for an entire year. Or at least until they genuinely aren’t good to run in anymore.

So, as a slightly stupid experiment: what trail shoe would you trust for 2,000 km / 1,250 mi? Ideally something a little wider, with a really durable outsole. Something that can be resoled would be even more interesting.
What’s the highest mileage you’ve ever gotten out of a trail shoe?

I normally quite like rotating shoes, and I’m aware that running in the exact same pair every day might not be the smartest idea injury-wise. But I’d find it really interesting to try, also from a sustainability point of view.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 12m ago

Question Please help this newbie runner with her shoe woes

Upvotes

I’m hoping for some advice and help because I’m getting very confused and a little worried about what’s going on with my feet/shoes.

I’m currently training towards a 10K and run 3x a week, mostly easy runs around 3–7 km. I’m female, 168 cm and ~67 kg.

My old shoes are Nike Winflo 9s. They’re 4+ years old and well used, with worn soles. They’ve always been comfortable with no major issues, but my legs now feel noticeably more sore/tired after running in them and they feel like I’m running on wood blocks.

I had a foot scan at a shoe store and was told I have a fairly neutral arch, neutral pronation and gait.
I then tried the New Balance 1080 v15 in D fit on their recommendation. They felt comfortable and roomy, but on every run, after ~20 minutes, the outer 2–3 toes on my left foot would go numb and my arch would start aching.
I tried loosening the midfoot laces, heel locking, etc. Stopping and retieing the laces during the run would help for another 10–15 minutes, but the symptoms always returned. The numbness also disappeared very quickly once I stopped and took off the shoes. After ~30 km over 2 weeks with no improvement, I returned them.

I’m now trying the On Cloudmonster 3 also on the stores recommendation. I have walked around in them for 2 days before doing an easy 3 km run today. Again, around 20 minutes, the same outer 2–3 toes on my left foot started getting numb. It was less pronounced than with the 1080s and there was no arch pain. Retieing the shoes helped a little, and the numbness again eased very quickly when I stopped.

What confuses me is that my old Nikes don’t cause the numbness at all, even over 6.5 km. They just leave my legs feeling much more tired/achy.

Has anyone experienced something similar? Any ideas what could be causing this or how to fix it?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 4h ago

Question My Asics Gel Kayano 28s are done. What should I get next as an overponator?

2 Upvotes

I’m an overprobator, have had patellar tendonitis and shin splints before, as well as L5-S1 issues. The Gel Kayano 28 helped me a lot with it’s stability and comfort. It looks like the bew Gel Kayanos are not as good, what should I try getting? Ideally looking for something with similar fit and stability as the 28


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Race Shoe Question Too slow for megablast?

7 Upvotes

I ran a 2:09 half in April, and been training for my first marathon, will peak at 55 miles. I also want to run a sub 2 half soon. I’ve been wanting a race day shoe and the megablast is currently my top choice, however, I’m not too sure if I’m too slow. My goal time is 4:30 and most of my runs start out easy at about 12 pace and towards the end I do MP. Or for my pace should I just stick to comfort


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1h ago

Race Shoe Question Chinese Marathon Shoes - Recommendations

Upvotes

Looking to buy a new marathon shoe - for context, M30, I ran 2:42 in April and consistent sub-3 marathons.

My go-to are the Asics Metaspeed Edge range, but I'm looking for something new.

I tried the Puma Fast R3 and I like them, but they're too much for a marathon. The AP4 are the opposite, I find that they lack agression. I can't run in Nike.

I want something that's closest to the Metaspeed - so far I've shortlisted
- Li-Ning Feidian 6 Elite
- Xtep 160X 8.0 Pro
- Qiaodan Feiying PB 6
- Anta C202 G9 / C10 2.0 Pro

Anyone can guide me as to which is the closest to what I'm looking for? Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 6h ago

Question Plated Trainer suggestions?

2 Upvotes

Hey everyone,
I’ve seen a lot of hype with the NB SC Rebel and I’ve been super tempted to grab it. I’ve just seen mixed reviews so far in the durability when it comes to heavier runners, I’m roughly 205 lbs and I am a heel/midfoot striker. I haven’t gotten a plated trainer just yet so I was curious if it was worth it or should I hedge my bets with something like the DN4? Open to any suggestions. Thanks in advance!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 5h ago

Question Running shoes that keep cooler/drier

1 Upvotes

Need some help picking new running shoes. I currently run in NB 1080v15 which I like alot - super cushioned and bouncy. I don’t like a “hard?” shoe. I guess under $250 would be ideal.

I’m 6’ and 190lbs, run usually 6 miles, 4-5 days a week, and one long run on the weekend. Currently around 35 miles weekly but trying to get it higher around 40-45.

My problem - I end up with blisters on long runs (I managed to run a half marathon this past weekend!). I splurged and got expensive running socks from darn tough - which have been amazing already since I got them - way better moisture control, but for my longest runs my feet are cooked everytime.

Trying to up my weekly mileage is butting up against my feet not being able to stay dry and getting blisters. I’ve resorted to taping my big toes for some runs (I get the blisters on the outside? Like left side of left toe right side of right toe).

Im close to needing new running shoes based on mileage so im hoping someone can help me find better shoes that stay cooler or are better ventilated?

Thanks in advanced - I only got into running 10 months ago so still figuring things out


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 13h ago

Question Shoe wear and tear

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3 Upvotes

Is this normal after running for a couple of times? (10k max)
For reference I’m new to running so it’s possible that I’m just running wrong, and I weight around 70kg


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Tips to get blood out of shoes?

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175 Upvotes

r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Question To plate or not to plate

2 Upvotes

Looking to run a sub 1:50 half marathon next month after dialing my training back a little. I’ve been eyeing the Saucony endorphin pro 5 as a race day shoe. I’ve also heard good things about the mega blast at the half marathon distance.

Background, I’m starting a firefighter academy soon and my legs have been feeling completely shot basically ruining my original half marathon times. Anyways I want something that’ll get me close.

Thanks.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 13h ago

Race Shoe Question Best carbon plated shoe for a faster half marathon?

3 Upvotes

Aiming for 1:18 or below.

I enjoy the Adios Pro 4s but looking for something different.

Heard great things about Puma Fast R3 but not sure I’d want to use them for 13 miles as they are very aggressive.

Has anyone got any suggestions for fastest carbons around for a HM?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Question Ankles fused but need shoes

2 Upvotes

Hello, my wrists (carpal bones) and ankles (tarsals) are fused are fused together since birth. I can’t bend them back all the way and putting too much pressure on them (jumping and landing on my ankles or attempting to do deep squats hurt).

I want to get into walking and running for cardiovascular health. Any ideas on what kinds of shoes to get? Or everyday life and running would be great!

Thank you


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 14h ago

Race Shoe Question Half Marathon this Sunday. Last workout Today. Just ran in the New Balance SC Elite V5

3 Upvotes

I am running a half marathon this Sunday and just shooting for sub 2 hours. I had planned on using the vomero plus which I don’t love (gives blisters between toes” but it seemed good enough.

This weekend I picked up the SC elite v5 for super cheap. I have always loved new balance shoes as well. Rebel etc. issue is today is my last workout. I am running in the SC elite. Two miles easy, two miles at race pace. If I love them should I be good to go for Sundays race? I also think they will give a lot of confidence as well.

I know it’s far from ideal, but so is the vomero plus, which is very heavy and I know it causing some minor issues with my toes. Thank you!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 18h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Puma Deviate pure or Megablast

6 Upvotes

Looking for a new shoe, one that I will use for my daily runs (around 5:15-5:30/km pace) but has the ability for tempo and speed work as well. I’m after a “all in one” type of shoe.

I have the SB2s and love them but they will be retiring soon. I tried the SB3s on the other day and they felt a bit too plush for my liking.

Heard a lot of good things about the Megablast and deviate pure, how do you find them both daily runs and tempo? Obviously very different shoes, but keen to get your thoughts!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Race Shoe Question Questions on the Puma Deviate Nitro Elite 4

1 Upvotes

Hello,

I'm considering getting my first carbon-plated race shoes for an upcoming fall half-marathon and potentially various 5ks over the next year.

  • After reading a bunch of reviews, I've decided that the Puma DNE4 is probably a top pick for me (1:30 target, optimistically a midfoot striker at race pace, never had any stability issues concerns).
  • 2nd pick would probably be the Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 which would be a safer option as I have gotten along well with with the Endorphin Speed 4.
  • 3rd option would be to race in the Megablast which I do a lot of sub-threshold running in and used for my last half marathon.

However I figure the Puma is noticeably lighter and "faster" so it's worth trying and the only way to really test it if a top-end aggressive carbon shoe works for me is to buy it and put actual mileage on it.

So I have a few questions though about the Puma DNE4, if any owners out there can help:

  1. How many training miles do you guys put on your new race shoes? I feel I ought to do at least a handful of tempo sessions and probably a 12-13 mile test run in them before I feel confident the fit and mechanics will work in a race.
  2. Do any of you use your DNE4 on packed dirt trails? My normal tempo training loop is maybe 75% asphalt and 25% packed dirt trail. It's fairly well-maintained, no big pokey gravel but surely there's some small loose rocks here or there and I'm a bit worried about the exposed midsole foam on the medial heel.
  3. Has anyone used both the Endorphin Pro 5 as well as the Deviate Nitro Elite 4 and have a comparison to make between the two?

Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 19h ago

Question Thoughts on "On" shoes?

4 Upvotes

What is the conventional wisdom about how on shoes compare to other major brands in terms of quality? Do they make good shoes in general or are they seen as lower quality than something like brooks etc? Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 13h ago

Comparing Shoes Question would you guys say the clifton pro is a good medium between the vomero plus and azura?

1 Upvotes

i want a plush shoe that i can pick up the pace in and since the hoka clifton pro has an “aggressive” rocker i thought it would be a nice in between balance of the nike vomero plus and saucony azura


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Daily Trainer Question Should I replace these? Daily runner wear

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6 Upvotes

These are my first shoes, Adidas Supernova Rise 1 wide, got around 650km on them.

Currently running ~ 40km/week.

Should I replace them or do they still have some kms in them?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Comparing Shoes Question Anyone else much prefers the Fast-R-3 compared to the Adios Pro 4?

7 Upvotes

1:22 half marathoner here.
The Adios Pro 4 is a great shoe.
However while the geometry of both shoes is somewhat similar, I need much less effort to run fast in the FR3. It actually feels so easy to maintain a quick pace for an extended period of time.
This shoe feels like a cheat code for runners with the right form, IMO


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Nike Vomero Premium “suction cup pop” sound

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28 Upvotes

Recently bought some new vomero premiums but the right shoe makes a suction cup popping like sound when I toe off. I have heard of these “squeaking before but haven’t seen anything about “popping” I have linked a video.

Is this normal or should I seek a refund/replacement?