Running Shoes

[kingrollo]

My son is quite into running - but is plagued by foot problems he seems better when he uses stiff soled trainers - for xmas I would like to get him some dedicated running shoes - any generic suggestions ? -

I realise perhaps he should go and see a foot specialist - but with lockdown and being away at uni - thats not easy - plus of course waking up Christmas morning to find your dad has got you a chiropody appointment for Christmas.....well you get the point !!!!!

 

[MichaelW2]

Do you have a local running shop (LRS?) that the clubs use? They often have more expertise

 

[CanucksTraveller]

Asics are firm / stiff soled generally, I've used those exclusively as I don't like a soft training shoe and prefer firm and springy. Saucony are on the stiffer side too.

 

[Sharky]

Try posting the question in Running Chat, rather than Cycle Chat

 

[Mo1959]

He would probably be better going to a dedicated running shop that maybe has one of the gait analysis pads and getting what shoes they advise if they know their stuff. Some of the modern shoes have a motion that sort of rocks the foot forward in your gait rather than it flexing so much, like the Asics Glideride. Might work for him.

As for the Running Chat forum, it always seems dead any time I look in sadly.

 

[Cathryn]

I'd echo that he should get a proper fit - it's so hard recommending shoes as they are so personal to each runner.

My favourites are Hoka Cliftons - they're very light and very cushiony to run in - if stiff-soled shoes aren't working, give these a try. I think they're fabulous - I'm on my sixth or seventh pair.

 

[Broadside]

I agree they are such a personal choice, I wouldn’t let someone else buy them for me. I’ve had £25 Decathlon trainers that were fantasticfor me, bought some more Decathlon trainers for £50 and they were agony.

I went to a proper running shop and tried all the usual suspects on the treadmill, Brooks, Hoka, Saucony etc but none of them suited. I did also try some On’s which I bought from the shop and they are like slippers for me which are brilliant. My feet look like they would need a shoe with support but in reality I find support trainers unwearable. That’s why I have to try before I buy.

 

[cougie uk]

Much trickier than cycling shoes. It'd be like your parents buying you a 'bike' without knowing what it was you wanted.

Either cash for them or vouchers if you find a really good running shop.

 

[Cirrus]

As what a few have said, would be best to get them fitted in a shop.. You could perhaps buy vouchers for a shop that does gait analysis as part of the sale, I've have used Accelerate in Sheffield for this (other specialist running shops are available)

 

[mudsticks]

Sportsshoes do free returns.

I've just ordered three pairs of trail runners to try from them

I'll probs send one pair back, keep two

Innov8 are my go to faves generally.
For everything, hiking, biking and trail running.

They have a stiffish sole, and multiple types of grip depending on the surface you're on.

But I'm trying some Scott, and Hoka, now too for a change .

I have foot shaped feet - ie not particularly unusual, but I also use 'superfeet' insoles as they stop fatigue over long distance.

Maybe you could let him pick out a few pairs to try and send back the not so good ones.


Most good running shops will do a gait analysis and give advice about trainers from there.

If your son is in a Uni City - there should be one that does that near him, once Lockdown is eased.

 

[Rhysito]

I have issues with pronation which leads to knee issues - I have started using Asics Kayano which have a stiff and supportive sole. They are not cheap but are really comfortable. That said, changing my running style (reducing lift and shortening stride) made the biggest difference.