Wednesday, May 06, 2009

Take A Walk In My Shoes

I bought new running shoes no more than 3 weeks ago. I tried on several pairs walked around and decided on the "more cushioned" style. When I got home I was excited to try my new shoes and bragged over the comfort. (you can even ask my husband) That was until I started running in them. I have been buying New Balance shoes for the past 4-5 years. They have served my foot quite well and why change if something is working? I also go to the New Balance store because I have never had good luck at sporting good stores with shoes. My only complaint is the choice of color for running shoes. Why are they always white with obnoxious colors? Purple most definitely wouldn't be a color I would jump up and down about.

Well, I ran a few long runs in them and couldn't get over how my left ankle ached during my run. I have never had this problem and began to question my shoes. Normally, knee pains and aches come from "old" shoes. It wasn't like I bought a cheap pair of shoes, these were the top of the line and I did fork out some money for these puppies. A few days went by and the thought of spending that much money and not loving my shoes was sickening.

I learned the toe box is important as well,
you don't want them too tight

A few friends had explained to me that there is a running store that will actually make you run on a tread mill to determine what type of shoe you need. Out of pure curiosity I drove out to day to Roadrunner Sports to see if this was too good to be true. After talking to the associate and explaining my shoe problem (I brought my problem shoes in to show him) I followed him over to a tread mill where the computer video taped me running bare foot. They call it the "shoe dog" At first I felt a tad strange, running in front of a stranger, but luckily it only lasted about 10 seconds.

Let's hope these ones serve my feet well!

I learned I wasn't a pronator, but that I run fairly straight and have high arches. Who knew? I was immediately sold after he brought out several of the "stability" shoes for me to try. I tried on brands I never knew existed (except in running magazines). I didn't end up buying a pair of shoes, but I did head back over to New Balance to exchange my current ones for some new ones free of charge. Gotta love that 30 day guarantee! This was really my only option since I could only get store credit. I guess only time will tell if I will love this style. I do know for certain, in the next few months when I need a new pair The Roadrunner may be selling me a new pair of shoes.


Have you ever heard of a place where they analyze the way you walk and run?

11 comments:

Melinda said...

That is so great that they will analyze your running. I don't always trust people in the sporting good stores cause I don't think they know what they are talking about. I will have to check out the new balance since I need a new pair of shoes. Thanks for sharing.

Laurie said...

I haven't seen the run analysis before, but that's pretty cool! I hope the second pair feel better. At least they are pretty looking!

Laurie said...

Wait...I just backed up and got caught up. I am so sorry about your grandpa! I've been thinking of you.

If you come run in Laguna Hills you'll have to hook up with Becca and I...we'll have to come cheer you on! That would be so fun!

Anonymous said...

Funny! I had that same problem back in November when I was getting new shoes. I had the same pair for TOO long but found out the hard way that I needed new ones with arch support. So unlike your ordeal, I had to stay with the pair I got from Dick's because I wore them outside to run and because I couldn't live without the comfortable ones, I bought ANOTHER pair (ended up being the same pair as my old but with new colors and 2 years newer!!) MORAL OF THE STORY: If it ain't broke, don't fix it!!

Lucy said...

Jay is passionate about running shoes and likes to have several pairs. You should probably have more than one, to alternate, as you are running so much now. Yes, yes....running is an intense hobby with all sorts of expertise and gadgets.

donna said...

I also went to a run analysis last week. I have been having a lot of pain when i would run. So anyway i went to this new sport store last week. The associate told me that i have a collapsed foot arches. ( due to wearing flip flops). I am so glad you were able to find great running shoes.

Neighbor Jane Payne said...

No, I haven't heard of that before but it sounds like a GREAT service. Somebody that logs that many miles on their feet needs some good tread. Go Jenny.

Natasha said...

That is great that they do that for you right in the store. I would feel self-conscious though.

Barb said...

That is awesome that you had a 30 day guarantee! With how much you run it is important to have the right shoes.

Tara said...

I just went to Roadrunner Sports this week! I got new shoes in a different brand than I have normally used and I tell you, they are wonderful!

What a difference the right shoes can make!

Shawna B. said...

I only buy running shoes from running shoe stores. Yes, I've run in front of strangers while they analyzed my gait - didn't love it - but I am convinced this is the ONLY way to buy good running shoes. I am an Asics gal, but don't think I ever would have picked those shoes had I gone to a sporting goods store simply because they aren't the ones that jump off the shelf as far as looks go. But, they serve me well, and I am glad the folks at the running specialty store in Virginia set me up with them. New Balance is a great brand, too - I hope you will be very happy with your new kicks!
Log some miles for me! I miss running SO MUCH.