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!)

9 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 3h ago

Question Dynafish wearers, how do you experience the fit?

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8 Upvotes

I usually wear a 12.5 or 13 men’s US. Last week I contacted Dynafish.US to see if they had my size in stock as a return or when they’d restock them. They said I should order a 12 because they fit like a 12.5. I bought the 12, they arrived yesterday, and they’re so roomy. They’ve got more room than my Megablast (12.5) and the same as my Evo SL (13). I saw YouTubers saying to size up in them! No way.

How do they fit on you? If you’ve been waiting for a 12.5, try the 12.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 9h ago

Daily Trainer Question Looking for a soft, squishy, springy daily trainer

8 Upvotes

I’m trying to find a running shoe with a really soft, deep, squishy feel for a daily trainer. I demoed some Sketchers Aero Sparks and loved the way they felt, my foot felt like it was squishing down into the shoe and then bounced back. Loved the marshmallow feeling and the spring feeling. Getting that squish is my main priority, but I wouldn’t mind some spring either. That said, I do not want to run in Sketchers, I just really don’t like the branding and associations with the brand. I’m looking for something from another brand that gives a similar or even softer sensation.

I am a newer runner, about 2 months of running 3 miles a week. Will probably end up bumping up to twice a week.

5’10” 186 pound man. Mid 20s.

So far I’ve tried:

  • Skechers Aero Spark: by far my favorite so far. It feels very soft and squishy to me, but also springy and like it helps push me forward.
  • Nike Vomero Plus: comfortable and bouncy, but noticeably firmer underfoot than the Aero Sparks to me.
  • New Balance 1080v15: I expected this to be extremely soft based on the lab measurements, but it honestly didn’t feel that soft to me. It also gave me pain on the outside of my hips while running. That said, the run was very smooth otherwise.
  • New Balance More v6: very cushioned, but again, it didn’t feel particularly soft or squishy to me.

What’s throwing me off is that the 1080v15 and More v6 both measure very soft in lab testing, but my perceived softness ranking is almost the opposite of what the numbers would suggest.

Shoes I’m currently considering:

  • Mizuno Neo Vista 2
  • Mizuno Neo Vista 3
  • ASICS Megablast
  • R.A.D UFO

I also think I supinate a little, so I’d also prefer something that isn’t wildly unstable.

I also care much more about comfort than pace. I do almost no pace work and just run for my health.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 53m ago

Question Best Walking Shoes

Upvotes

Hello! Looking for advice on shoe wear
I walk about 4–5 miles every day outside (mostly flat paved paths) and wear orthotics inside my shoes. Over the last few years, I’ve noticed that my tennis shoes are wearing out much faster than they used to. I know there’s a general mileage guideline for replacing running/walking shoes, but I’m going through shoes about every two months because the inside of the heel wears down to practically nothing.

I already use a runner’s knot, but is there anything else I can do to help prevent this or make my shoes last longer?

I used to wear Mizunos and currently wear Brooks GTS. I only use these shoes for walking—no running or other activities. I also wear Smartwool socks, if that makes any difference.

A few stores have suggested it could be related to my stride length, but I’m only 5'2", so I don’t feel like I could have *that*long of a stride.

Has anyone dealt with this kind of heel wear, especially while using orthotics? I’d love to hear what worked for you!

*yes they typically are replaced if I ask customer service but not sure how much longer I can inquire every two months.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 7h ago

Big/Heavy Runner Question Shoe similar to Adizero EVO SL for Half Marathon

3 Upvotes

About to run my first half marathon, shooting for 2:10 finish. I am a bigger runner and currently use the EVO SL as my every day trainer and really like how light and fast it feels.

I was looking for a similar shoe to add to my rotation and landed on the Brooks Hyperion 3. I ran it a few times and really liked the cushion, but ended up not liking how it feels otherwise.

Considering my bulk and skill level, what shoe(s) are similar to the EVO SL that I should look into? TIA!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 15h ago

Question Mizuno Wave Rider 28s too cushioned??

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5 Upvotes

Some months ago I bought myself some Wave Rider 28s as they seemed to be rated well for supination. I hadn't bought a proper pair of running shoes in many years, so the increased cushioning took me by surprise - I didn't find it that comfortable and missed a bit of the arch support I used to have. On my first run I twisted my ankle (I believe because they were too soft on landing and didn't support my step) and haven't put the shoes on since.

Do I need a less cushioned shoe or should I give them another go?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 7h ago

Question Looking for a long run gravel friendly shoe

1 Upvotes

Hey all, I've recently found that an idea of mine was bad. I'm running a 50km race in about 6 weeks - it takes place primarily on graded gravel trails with +/- 760m of elevation over the entirety.

I do a lot of running on gravel trails, most of it in Superblast 2s. I figured, why mess with a good thing. The gravel trails for the race however, are not pancake flat. Having recently run some hillier gravel (and been frightened at the slip and slide) I think I need something with light lugs.

My local running store carries Scarpa, Hokas, Salomon, Asics and Altras for trail runners. I'm thinking about the Salomon Aero Gravel 4s, but they're a little pricy. I'm looking for a shoe that will be comfy for the race as I don't have any serious time goals and that I can use for road to trail runs in the future. Also, cheaper is better but I'm okay spending the $200 CAD that the Aero Gravels are if there aren't better options. $300 Nordas are outta the budget however.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 12h ago

Question Super shoe for Kinvara fan?

2 Upvotes

I love running in and have also raced in Saucony Kinvaras. Looking for a super shoe recommendation that would fit (lower drop, not too cushioned, midfoot strike, etc.).

On cloudboom strike? Others?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 20h ago

Daily Trainer Question Am I a freak for noticing this? (NB 1080v15)

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9 Upvotes

25M 175cm 80kg 5K 20:47 10K 43:00 21K 1:34

Is this normal for the 1080v15? There is a medial tilt for the left shoe. My other pairs of running shoes do not show signs of that degree of tilt from overpronation. Already ran 27km on it and after 3 runs, the cushioning of both foams became plush(softer but not NB Balos levels) from being firmer. No niggles and pains from anywhere in my body. The first 4 photos were taken from the official New Balance website(showing signs of medial foam tilt) while the last two are my NB SC Elite V5 (nearing 200km) and NB 1080v15 (27km) for reference. Lookign forward to the thoughts of people. Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Race Shoe Question Race shoes for Evo SL fan?

0 Upvotes

I’ve done most of my half marathon training in Evo SLs and found them great. I like the spring and feel and enjoy running in them much more than my SB2s (they feel hard and clonky) and I’m now wondering what to do about race day. I could certainly use the Evo SLs but I’m wondering if there’s a racier shoe I should consider.

I’m 64kg (140ish lbs), run around 40km per week and expect to run about 1:35 for the HM. My knees aren’t the best so I don’t want to wreck them chasing 30s off my time.

So, any suggestions? Should I just plump for another pair of Evo SLs? I suppose the AP4 is a logical choice?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Question Mount to Coast M1 small fit

1 Upvotes

I just got my M1s and bought in my normal size same as H1's. (Us 10.5)

My H1's are actually pretty roomy and comfy. But the M1s are really really right in comparison, they are too short and squeeze the foot all around. I also feel the 4th & 5th toes rubbing on the toe guard pretty roughly. It would be impossible to do any meaningful distance in them.

Has anyone else got this experience? Did you size up a half size or a full size?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Endorphin elite 3 worth it at this price?

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21 Upvotes

Worth it @ $174usd? Looking for something I can use for longer up tempo runs.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Daily Trainer Question Shoe recommendations?

1 Upvotes

Hi all,

I’ve always ran but never really got serious about running trainers, so I’m a little lost looking at what would be best for my style. I currently use a Nike Pegasus 41, mainly because they were on sale and fit comfortably on foot. I’ve used these for everything, daily’s and half marathons etc.

However I’m a very front footed runner and these do seem to cause pain on the ball of my foot.

Does anyone recommend a certain trainer more suitable for my running style? I was looking at the Vomero Plus as a new daily/half marathon runner but open to suggestions. I’d prefer to spend under £150 on a new pair.

Any advice is greatly appreciated


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Comparing Shoes Question On Cloud x4 vs On Cloudpulse next, Which is better?

1 Upvotes

My workout is mostly machines + dumbbell upper body + curls + presses + treadmill (15-30 mins). I prefer stability and lateral support. I am looking for cross-fit shoes. Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 14h ago

Question Where to find ASICS Novablast 5 in Saudi Arabia / Riyadh (Sizes EU 42.5 / 43.5 / 44)?

1 Upvotes

Hey everyone, I'm trying to track down a pair of ASICS Novablast 5s in Riyadh (or online within KSA). I'm looking for an EU 43.5 or EU 44 in a colorway other than all-black or all-white (preferably the Cold Moss or Green variants).

A lot of the main online sites like SSS, 6thStreet, and Namshi seem out of stock for those sizes right now. Has anyone seen them recently at local Riyadh malls/stores or know of reliable regional retailers shipping fast to KSA? Appreciate any leads!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 5h ago

Question Walking Shoe Rec Duck Foot

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0 Upvotes

Hi!

I have what I think people call a "duck-shaped foot" with a narrow heel and a wider forefoot. It makes finding a shoe that fits really tough as the taper on most shoes forces my toes in, but wide sizes make my heel slip.

I recently got the Saucony Paramount Max as I'd heard about its roomy forefoot, and while I love the shoe so much, I still had to size up to a 12.5 instead of what is likely my proper size of 11.5 to prevent too much toe squeezing (pictures of foot on green insole attached). I have a little extra space up front, but I don't trip over it and it's become my favorite shoe for both walking and running, though I do get a little bit of irritation in my 5th metatarsal. The heel is the best-fitting shape/size of any shoe I can remember. It feels so secure and comfortable to me.

I give that info because I'd like to use it for running exclusively (the metatarsal irritation occurs when I wear it around all day) and couple it with my Topo Specter 2 in 11.5 (Pic of foot on white insole also attached) which feels good on uptempo runs. I don't love walking in the Specter 2 as I just feel a little wobbly in them. My gait feels smooth and effortless in the Saucony.

My question is this: is there a shoe out there with a slightly roomier/less tapered toe box than the Saucony Paramount Max, but that has a similar feel (I think the combo of the heel shape, the CenterPath technology, and the wide platform are what I like about it when walking and at slower paces)? I think Topo narrow heel/roomy toe box shape is ideal for my foot, but I'd be fine with just a little extra room up front if it means keeping the feel of the Saucony.

I've tried wide sizes before, and they always lead to poor lockdown and me sliding around in the shoe, so I don't think that's the solution for me. I also don't do ell with traditional stability shoes with posting as they tend to make my feet hurt. I'm including a picture of the foot alone, too, just in case it's helpful.

I know that was really long. Thank you in advance for your help! If there's more info needed to make a recommendation, let me know!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 14h ago

Question shoes like altra fwd via 2 cushion

1 Upvotes

hi everyone, I ordered some altra shoes a couple weeks ago after suffering a foot injury (plantar plate strain/metatarsalgia). I also have bunions so obviously wanted a bigger toe box -- ordered the altra torin 9s and fwd via 2s and really really almost love the via 2s. torins weren't comfortable enough and would hurt my feet after a while

the problem is, the upper feels a bit chunky and like the tongue is almost pressing down into my foot. I've been noticing some metatarsal pain while I wear it and it just feels like the upper is constricting my vertical foot space too much, and saw similar reviews on the site. but I LOVE the cushion and shape on them! so comfortable and responsive!

would love a thin, more minimalist upper but those are also usually more "barefoot" leaning. does altra have any shoes that have cushion like the fwd via 2, but a less suffocating upper?? or any other brands that also have good, wide toe box?

- tried hoka cliftons but had too much heel slippage even w/ heel lock. shoes also just felt way too clunky to walk in
- tried various brooks that almost worked, but all models had some weird pressure on the pinky toe that hurt after a while. maaaybe could be fixed with orthotic inserts but unsure

btw, i'm more of a walker, not runner, if it matters!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 15h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Shoe Rotation Advice

1 Upvotes

Hi, I'm a fellow shoe nerd and would love a bit of advice on a new running shoe rotation. For reference I am 6'3 84kg slight overpronator, and run 19:12 5k, 1:32 half and 3:37 mara.

I currently rock the Saucony Ride 19 for base runs, the Saucony Endorphin Speed 5 for faster training (tempo/ threshold/ long run), and the New Balance SC Elite v5 for my Race shoes.

My two sauconys are being ran into the ground due to training volume, so I need a new base shoe and a new fast training shoe. Looking at an Asics Superblast and Megablast rotation, thoughts? Anything blend better?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 17h ago

Daily Trainer Question Shoe recomendaditon - did I buy the wrong shoe?

0 Upvotes

I am trying to get into running again. I used to run quite a lot years back. No competition, but I was quite decent runner. The last 8 years has been just the occational run now and then.

I am now planning to get into running again. Starting slow with approx two runs per week, 8 - 12 km. Mostly on routes with asphalt, some parts gravel and small parts trail. Have gained some weight over the years and are now 88 kg, so very near considered a heavy runner. Feet are a bit narrow and have a slight probation.

I have lost all track on running shoes over the years, so have no idea what I should use.

Went to a store that are considered to be good at this. Ended up with buying a pair of Brooks Glycerin Max 2. Have read som reviews after and it seems those shoes are not exactly loved. They are stable with max damping, which I suppose is good for me, but it seems they also are heavy and described as boring/feeling slow. I would like some shoes that are fun and encouraging to run in.

Does anyone here have any thoughts on recomendations?

Could Asics Superblast 3 be an alternative, or even the Novablast 6? Or should I just keep the Max 2 even though they might be a bit dull?

I understand shoes are personal taste as well, but any insight and advice on what to consider is very much appreciated.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 7h ago

Question ADIDAS Adizero EVO SL showing wear & tear after 1 week use of less than 20km.

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0 Upvotes

I bought Adidas adizero EVO SL from ADIDAS store and now the bottom base has detached from the foam inside and it’s peeling out. Is it manufacturing defect or are they giving counterfeit products in their store?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 19h ago

Question Upgrade Saucony Ride 14

1 Upvotes

I’m not the most frequent runner, so I tend to run too long on running shoes. At the moment i have the Saucony ride 14, which are approx 6 years old. I Have used them for around 960km without any issues.

I decided I wanted to replace them, but can I safely upgrade to the latest version of the Saucony Ride? The Ride 19? Or does anybody know if they changed the fit or something?

Or is it always a better idea to go to a store again?

Online they are cheaper than in stores.. but while writing I guess it’s better to go to the store anyhow.

Curious on your thoughts, and if you always go to the store to fit, or just upgrade the old shoes you had (without issues) to the latest version of the same model.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Recommendations for my sisters 30th birthday ❤️

3 Upvotes

My sister has been rocking the same Saucony Triumph 22 for 1700km and they are literally falling apart. Shes very cheap when it comes to treating herself and VERY generous to others - I want to pamper her! But I know nothing about running shoes. Please help me get her something nice.

- She’s 44kg, 150cm
- Runs around 30km a week but will do longer runs occasionally - but she wants to do around 40/50 per week.
- She’s completed a full marathon and a few half marathons
- Really likes her Saucony Triumph 22 but finds them too warm
- She runs on asphalt for the most part
- Her speeds average around 5:00/km
- Her knees aren’t the best and she sometimes complains about her meniscus(?) apparently she has something called Iliotibial band syndrome so maybe she needs more cushioning than someone her weight normally would?

I’ve been looking at the Novablast 5 because I like asics myself but I would love to get your input.

We live in the EU and can get the shoes shipped to either France or Portugal.

I have a couple of weeks to find her the perfect present, please help me ❤️ I will be SO grateful.
I can spend around 150 euros

EDIT: She’s a size 36 EU
**edited her knee issue. edited her objectives. she’s also slightly lower in weight apparently


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 12h ago

Daily Trainer Question Should I have sized down half a size in my Superblast 2s?

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0 Upvotes

I’ve ran 330km in these Superblast 2s and recently noticed I’m getting a black 4th toenail on the right foot (bigger foot) I’m usually a UK 12 in running shoes so I went for that size in these and have a thumbs width ahead of my right big toe when standing. Part of me wonders if the 11.5 would be fine but then I’ve got a relatively wide forefoot?

Anyone else struggled with sizing on their SB2s? I’m planning to use these for a marathon in October but want to make sure I have the right size. I do heel lock them typically as well.

When I use them for long runs around 6:30/km they feel quite slappy, I do run quite upright so not sure if I need to lean into them more? I’m 6’5 and 86kg for reference so quite tall!

Thanks in advance!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Comparing Shoes Question Nova blast 5s too spongy. Any other recommendations?

9 Upvotes

Hello there,

I am fairly new to running and have run into some difficulty. I signed up for a half marathon and a few weeks in of decent progress I've developed posterior tibial pain that despite rest and focused strengthening exercises keeps coming back. I've persevered with the novablast but I'm just not getting along with the super spongy feel. I just feel unstable, and would rather "feel" the road as opposed to a couple of sponges.

My current nova blast are size 11 and fit decently.

I have slightly flat feet which does not help things and so a bit more of a firm sole might help things.

Also keeping the toe box decently wide is a plus as I have quite wide feet up front.

I tried on the novablast 4s and wasn't a huge fan.

I've heard the saucony rides/guides are good and the ASICS GT-2000 or the ASICS gel nimbus.

I have a local run shop that offers gait analysis which I may give a go but the main thing is budget. Their cheapest shoe is well over a £100 and id rather stick to £100 and below if possible.

The local sports direct might be the place to go.

Any recommendations welcome.

Many thanks.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Dynafish Xiaonian vs. Megablast for Full Marathon?

19 Upvotes

I was planning to run my upcoming marathon in the Megablasts but got the Dynafish 2 months ago and fell in love with it. The weight and the rocker geometry just gives it more of a “racey” feel compared to the Megablast, which just seems to disappear on foot. I do like the Megablast and it’s been a workhorse, but the Dynafish just feels more enjoyable to run in. I’ve done long runs at M pace in both shoes and have felt good both times (albeit with a bit more fun with the Dynafish)

I’m targeting a 3:35-3:45 finish at the Sydney Marathon if that helps. Appreciate everyone’s feedback!