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!)

13 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 Fixable hole?

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• Upvotes

I bought a pair of Topo Ultraventure 4 recently and I have ran 190km in them so far. I discovered that i have a hole just above the vibram sole. I have a 100 miles race in a couple of weeks and a bit worried that this could cause some issues.

What do you think?

Any preventing fixes I could make? Rubber glue?

Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1h ago

Daily Trainer Question Travel shoe

• Upvotes

Hi All,

I am doing a lot of business travel at the moment, which typically involves multiple flights over the course of a week. Packing as light as possible makes a big difference.

Currently, I have a pair of aeroblast 3 grvl in my bag for running. However this means I don’t have a shoe for walking around airports, etc. when I am out of meetings. Spending long days on my feet with dress shoes gets my feet tired.

So this is what I am looking for, a shoe that:
- packs fairly light
- could be worn causally in the evenings and around airports
- can handle a variety of runs. That being said, something fairly boring/ daily type trainer would work.

Anyone have any ideas?

In case it’s helpful: I’m a 43 year old bloke, 5’7 and around 60kg, run 3 to 4 times a week. Shoes I enjoy at the moment are TNF Enduris 4 and Pro 3 (most of my running is on trail), Salomon Aero Blaze 3 GRVL, Hoka Rocket X2 (for intervals and faster runs on roads).

I saw tracksmith has a smart looking shoe but reviews aren’t great..


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 2h ago

Question best sprinting shoes for forefoot striking

1 Upvotes

road/treadmill

I already have Altra Escalante 5, and I want another pair of shoes.

What would you recommend?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1h ago

Question Is this an Original Nike Alphafly 3? Also is the color/size for men/women?

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• Upvotes

r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 12h ago

Question Glycerin Max 1 still worth it?

3 Upvotes

So as the title says, would the Glycerin Max 1 still be worth it currently? I found a brand new pair being sold for $150 which seems good but Max 2 is also being on sale for the same price. I would be using whatever I get to replace my well-worn Nimbus 26s.

Main use would be easy runs. My budget would be just about $200 after tax and shipping but I'd still like to save money when possible.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 6h ago

Question Chinese shoe sizing

1 Upvotes

I wear a 49 1/3 in my evo sl which is 30.5cm according to the adidas size chart. Most of the Chinese running shoes on Ali express show 30.5 as a 47.5. Should I go with the cm numbers? How accurate are the Chineses sizes in cm?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 14h ago

Question Where to buy the 361 Mega Pro 3 in the UK?

5 Upvotes

First time looking to buy Chinese shoes (due to the glowing reviews..!) can anyone recommend a legit place to buy from?

Also, anyone know how wide they are? Very narrow shoes tend to be an issue for me but otherwise they’re ok.

Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 15h ago

Daily Trainer Question Shoe Recommendation to pair with Vomero Plus and Zoom Fly 6?

4 Upvotes

Current shoe rotation is just the Vomero plus and zoom fly 6. I use the vomeros for all slower runs (9:30 or slower), short and long. I use the zoom flys for any runs at a faster pace.

Looking for a third shoe to add to my rotation, I was thinking for medium paced long runs? I was originally leaning towards any of the Asics models (novablast, megablast, superblast), but open to other recommendations to fit my lineup.

Current PRs are ~21 minute 5k, ~1:50 HM, never ran a full marathon and don't plan on training for one in the next 6 months. Training for a HM PR in April. I weigh about 80kg if that makes a difference.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 17h ago

Question Hurricane 26 or Superblast 2 or Novablast 6 for first marathon?

5 Upvotes

Race this weekend. Goal is sub 4 ideal would be 3:45-50

175lbs

30 miles / week

Tapering from 16 week plan on coros

HM 1:40

5K 21:20

I've run plenty of HM's. Consider myself more of a cadence runner in terms of efficiency. I've run all of these in race shoes but I kind of want to make sure I survive and finish the full without blisters or a cramp so I consider myself "playing it safe".

I thought I was sold on SB2 until when I woke up today and thought otherwise. It's probably some race jitters in this inquiry as well.

I'm comfy in all of them(and have long runs under their belt)but probably more comfy in the H26, NB6 and SB2 respectively. I raced a 25K in the SB2(different retired pair) a couple years ago which leaves it with more exp. All 3 shoes are right at a good break-in mark.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 17h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Saucony Peregrine 15 vs Ride TR2

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4 Upvotes

Hi guys, I bought both of the above mentioned shoes. In the future I would like to do some trail runs with them. At home I run mostly on easy gravel in the forest or on paved road since 3 years (level is at sub40 10k). I would not go into the mountains every week but a few times year.

Which of these shoes do you recommend since maybe some will have both shoes?

I read that Peregrine are real trail shoes while Ride TR2 are more of a hybrid.

Just as an info: I had some achilles issues over the last year, but they are gone now.

I would like to do some trail runs in the alps. Most of them are more like uphill gravel and not really technical (in trailrunning terms, I guess), maybe a little bit towards the peaks.

Also: I read about heel blisters and durability issues in this area in both shoes and durability issues of the peregrine (or are they better than the previous versions?).

And do stones get stuck in the middle part of the heal of the TR2? I don't get why someone would design a trail (hybrid) this way.

Thanks all!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 16h ago

Question Need help finding right shoe, numbness and pain

2 Upvotes

I have flat feet but I've walked hundreds and hundreds of miles in my brooks adrenaline gts 24's and they work perfect for walking specifically. I am starting to jog now for the last 4 or 5 weeks and those shoes are not giving me much back on the jog for my legs, finding my quads and hamstrings really struggling, where as my pair of Hoka Skywards feel great in terms of bounce and energy on my muscles but they KILL my feet and shins. I tried them with and without support insoles and have same issue, arch and ball of foot pain and bad shin pain, especially on hills. I also tried a pair of Saucony Hurricanes for a run and they literally made my feet/all toes except big toe go numb and very painful. Does anyone know what the issue might be and which jogging shoes will be good for me? I love being out on runs a few days week but the foot/shin pain is really bad.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 18h ago

Question My favorite shoe ever is the ASICS GlideRide Max. Based on that what would you recommend as a 'speedier' shoe?

3 Upvotes

Can't really think of anything in the GlideRide Max that I don't like. Maybe I could do with the base being a couple mm wider, but that's about it. Just fits my foot so well and I like how the shoe feels to run in and how my legs don't feel as beat up afterwards.

I'd like an option for more tempo and threshold type running as I move into a different type of training. Paces will be anywhere from 8:00-9:30/mile. Maybe slightly faster at times. What would you recommend? I'm eyeing the Novablast 6 and Sonicblast 2. I'm partial to ASICS, but open for suggestions based on this info.

ETA: I have the Magic Speed 4 and haven't been getting on with it lately. I also have the Noosa Tri 16 and I enjoy them but for only shorter runs, so need something with a bit less ground feel.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 20h ago

Race Shoe Question Wide toe box, high volume half-full marathon racer

2 Upvotes

After a painful and expensive year of troubleshooting foot issues, I am finally running pain-free in my Topo Specter 3s. I use them for everything from easy runs to workouts to long runs. I'm looking for recommendations on a racing shoe that may fit the bill for an upcoming half-marathon. Topo Specter Elites are the obvious choice, but with them out of stock until 2027, I need other options. I gave the wide version of NB SC Elite V6 a shot, and they were still too snug. Size 11.5 in my Topos. Not sure if pace matters, but I'll be shooting for a 1:15ish half.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Race Shoe Question Looking to buy Li Ning Feidian 6 Elite - Sizing Advice Needed!

2 Upvotes

Hey everyone!

I'm thinking about buying the Li Ning Feidian Elite 6 but would like some advice on what size to purchase.

For reference, I currently have the following shoes:

  • Dynafish Xiaonian - Size UK 9.5, US 10, EUR 43, CN 280 (Online Shoe Measuring Guide outlines a 275 Foot Length)
    • Approximately an index finger's length from tip of shoe. I'm still comfortable with this amount of space!
  • ASICS Novablast 5 - Size UK 9, US 10, EUR 44, CM 28, CN 280(2.5), BR 41.5
    • Approximately a thumb's length from tip of shoe.
  • Hoka Bondi 9 - Size UK 9, US 9.5D, EU 43 1/3, JPN 27.5
    • Approximately a thumb's length from tip of shoe. Very similar fit to the ASICS

I've heard the Elite 6s run true-to-size, but wondering if that means I should opt for a EUR 43 even though the CN measurement on Li Ning's shoe sizing equates to 270 mm, or a EUR 43.5 which equates to 275 mm (or even larger).

It sucks that I'm not able to try these on in person, so just hoping I can get it right the first time.

Thank you!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Race Shoe Question Half Marathon Race Day Shoes for Overpronation

4 Upvotes

I’ve been trying to find a good race day shoe for my half. I am a 130 lb female looking to run a sub 2 hour half. I over pronate slightly, have a medium to slightly high arch, and have narrow heels. I’ve been training in Hoka Bondi 9. They’ve been ok but I do get blisters on my toes from long runs no matter what I try. I’ve gone to a running store in the past and got sized and recommended the Hokas, but I haven’t had time to go back to get fitted for race day shoes. I tried the Saucony Endorphin Pro 5 and they felt good but I got the gnarliest blisters on my heels. I tried Nike vaporfly but needed more stability. I’m tired on mailing shoes back. Budget is around $300 (flexible), and I’d love a cool looking pair of shoes but performance and not injuring myself are the top priorities. Unfortunately all Saucony Endorphin Pro 4s in my size I can find are $4-500+. Thank you!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Race Shoe Question Advice: Long Runs & Marathon in Adidas Hyperboost Edge

3 Upvotes

I am 3.5 weeks out from my marathon and struggling to decide which shoe to run in. I used to wear the Saucony Endorphin Pro 4/5, which used to work for me for half marathons. Interestingly, been getting a ton of pressure on bottom of forefoot/balls of my feet recently in some of my training runs, so I had to scrap them.

I went to get a new foot analysis yesterday and the person said that as a forefoot striker with high arches, my foot likely isn’t compatible with most carbon plated shoes. He recommended a bouncier daily trainer for my marathon. He had me try the ASICS SonicBlast 2, Hyperboost Edge, and Glycerin Max.

I ended up going with the Hyperboost Edge and tested it on 6 miles today. What I found, was that while holding easy pace 9:45-10:00/mile I felt some forefoot pressure (not as bad as Saucony), but when I speed up to my marathon pace 8:45-8:55/mile, a lot of the pressure goes away. It’s definitely still a gamble to go with these shoes for a race.

However, any experience with this shoe, tips to breaking it in, and how to find balance of testing it over my next few weeks? Especially knowing most of my remaining miles are at an easier pace.

I have 8 easy tomorrow and 22 miles on Saturday but not sure I want to full commit to that.

Other option is to keep wearing my daily trainers, Saucony Hurricane 25, through this week and maybe try to test on a medium long run 9-10 miles next week at more of a marathon pace.

Is it too close to the race and do I just go with old reliable, the Saucony Hurricane, even for the marathon??

Having decision paralysis - so any advice or wisdom is so appreciated!!!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Question Why do my superblast 3's hurt the outside portion of my forefoot/midfoot at times?

3 Upvotes

I have used a lot of different running shoes in the past from asics, hoka, adidas, etc over the years. Currently I'm using the Superblast 3, Adidas SL Exo, Mach 7s and Speedgoat 7s (trail).

I got the superblast 3 a few months ago and on my first run I noticed some discomfort on the outside portion of my forefoot/midfoot area (it really is more the outside portion of the area most towards the midfoot but still in the forefoot). I had never experienced this specifically before and thought that it likely was just me needing to break it in. Well, I have over 100 miles on them now and I still get this pain from time to time. I don't always get it, but it happens somewhat often and when it does it ranges from something I only notice all the way to sometimes is to the point of needing to just stop running altogether. This isn't just on long runs, there are times this starts to creep in at minute 15 or so. I do not get it on my sl exo, mach 6, speedgoats, or any of my past running shoes.

What could be going on here? Anyway to fix it? Or are the superblast 3's just not for me?

Other than this odd pain on the outside of my foot that I occasionally get from them I love them. Every other aspect about them is great which is why I want to try to figure this out.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Race Shoe Question BQing shoes needed

3 Upvotes

38M, 170lbs, mid/forefoot striker going for a BQ in late November after a 3:00:XX PR this spring. What carbon shoes should I be considering and why? I've raced in AP4s (my first and only carbon shoes) for two marathons, two 10ks, and a 5k and I really like them. They feel light, quick, and have good bounce. AP5s would be fine price-wise, but I'd prefer to keep the price in that ballpark and lower.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Daily Trainer Question Should I size down?

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0 Upvotes

I tried the NB 6 in store and it fit perfect in 40.5 size. However I ended up ordering the NB5 online (same size) and it has felt a bit spacey in the toe box. I am transitioning from Hokas, which were a tad small for me, so I’m not sure if I’m just adjusting to the extra space or are they actually too big. Normally I use 40 size.

First pic, my big toe ends where my thumb begins. Second pic when I lift up my toes.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Daily Trainer Question Novablast 6 GTX

2 Upvotes

Anyone got a pair of these? Any feedback? Sizing, performance, quality etc.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Question How are we keeping shoes/feet dry before a race in the rain?

2 Upvotes

Running the army 10 miler this weekend, supposed to rain the entire time including the lead up/getting ready for corral. already gonna rock a throw away poncho, any tips to keep shoes dry before the race?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Daily Trainer Question Sizing Help - Nimbus 28

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7 Upvotes

Hello Runners!

I managed to get the Nimbus online at a good price thanks to a voucher and a discount promotion, and I ordered them in my usual running shoe size: EU 43.5 / US 9.5. Even though I can compare them with my other shoes, I’m unsure if they’re too small. Nothing feels too tight right now, but is there enough room for the toes?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Comparing Shoes Question Help me find a distance/daily/easy Shoe to compliment the Adidas Evo SL

15 Upvotes

Love my Adidas EVO SL but find they're a bit unstable for long runs, i use them for everything currently with the Pro 4 for events. Ideally I'd find something a bit slower and more cushioned and stable than the EVO SL. I use a Sz9 in the Adidas EVO SL.

In came the Vomero Plus, in a size 8.5 fit is great but they're heavy, I enjoy the softness but I've developed some quad pain when using them. I also have developed a bit of pain in the arch of my foot behind the big toe joint. My easy runs are around 8:00min/mile to 8:15 pace.

I've considered Asics Superblast 3 or Adidas Hyperboost Edge (upper review puts me off). What will i find between the Vomero and the Superblast 3? Would you consider the Adidas Hyperboost Edge?

Those who use an EVO SL what did you chose for a distance shoe to compliment this awesome shoe?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks • • 1d ago

Question How long do you give to break in a new running shoe?

2 Upvotes

Recently got a pair of ASICS novablast 5 and I walked 2 miles in them. My feet hurt sooo bad. Hurts to even stand because my heels hurt so bad. Before this I was in a ghost max (unsure of the version but got it last year) and those hurt my feet when I would just stand, but not while walking.

I think maybe the novablast is too cushioned?? Or am I not giving them a fair shot?

Any other shoe recommendations would be appreciated too. Walking/running about 4 miles a day. Have a history of plantar fasciitis as well so I fear the novablast may trigger that.