Running shoes - recomendations of what and from where please!

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27 Jan 2005
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Nr. Norwich, Norfolk
Hey all,

I've been doing daily running on a casual basis for a few years now, typically 4.85km a day. Although originally this was largely running off-road tracks, due to an increasingly busy student life, I usually do the equivalent on an exercise machine nowadays.

However, a few weeks back a friend suggested I do the Norwich Half-Marathon for charity with him, and it seemed like a great idea, as I particularly enjoy longer distance running.

So, as December is rapidly approaching, I thought I'd better change my running routine to get training, so, I'd better get some proper running shoes. :D

Previously, I had worn either standard ~£40 Nike Trainers for hard-surface running that seemed to give a comfortable running experience, or Reebok Moulded-Stud Football Boots for soft-ground in wet weather.

As I'm pretty enthusiastic about this, I thought I'd get some decent running shoes as neither the above are really suitable for running the half-marathon. Now I've read the Shoe-Buying Sticky on here, which was great advice, but I'm not sure if there are any 'running shoe shops' in Norwich (bizarrely enough?). So I thought if I'm forced to buy from a chain sports shop, are there any particular models you'd recommend?

I'm hoping to not spend the earth, and it would be advantageous if they were mildly stylish to the extent I could wear them occasionally when I didn't plan on doing a huge amount of running in my day, but ultimately being a good running shoe comes first.

Any help, advice and suggestions greatly appreciated :D

peter.
 
I'd really say don't stick to a brand, or have one in mind when entering the shop. For years I'd used Asics but one day tried a pair of Brooks that felt really right.

Also, wouldn't worry too much about looks. Those in the know will know what they are, those who don't won't care anyway!

Chain sports shops tend to lack both the facilities and staff to analyse your run correctly. Either try and find running shops, or 'sport' shops, as opposed to 'sport culture' shops, JJB etc.

May also be worth asking at your gym, or nearby ones if you dont use one, if they have anyone onsite or visiting from shoe companies. My gym has about once a month some reps turn up with some nice gear, and generally arent too stereotypically salesman like, so can give some good advice, and will have a load of stuff for you to try, even if only from one brand.

Hope thats of some help, despite being a bit of a ramble. Lastly, good luck :)
 
Asics Kayano for me. But you must get properly measured by someone who knows what they are doing otherwise say hello to injuries and long term problems.
 
http://www.sportlink.co.uk/Running

Says they are having an Free Gait Analysis Day on Sat 27th Oct. Address is Norwich (Drayton, Norwich, NR8 6RL).

Personally, I have no preference on brand or colour when I'm buying. I want the best for my body. Anyway, I probably look like a tool when running so trainer colour isn't a problem! :D
 
i go to up and running, currently using a pair of brooks Adrenaline GTS 7 but ive previously had asics and sacouny but my current pair feel the best to date.

Get your self fitted properly forget brand or looks, just get the right pair for you.
 
I've tried different shoes like Brooks and Mizuno but for the last 7 years I've only worn Reebok DMX.
They are the most comfortable shoe I've ever worn and I even bought a pair to use in normal everyday tasks.
Get to a shop who can give you an MOT on your feet and then suggest some makes/models for you to try.
I'm lucky that I live a couple of miles away from this world known shop - http://www.bournesports.com/Public/Reebok_Premier_Ultra_KFS(1)/16582.htm
 
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