Eddie what do you recommend for soles?

[tjr42px]

What shoes are you running in?

I'm looking for something to start my half marathon training in. I've used a multitude of shoes over the years, never quite finding what I'm looking for. I have very slight over pronation, average arch...nothing special. To be honest, I think I just need to be more disciplined. If I go more than 3-5 miles I tend to get some minor pain just slightly above my knee. I usually go 2-3 miles but I really could tell you if that is to ward off pain or if it's because I never need to test on more than that. I had New Balance people check out my stride and recommend a few pairs without and significant changes.

I'm looking for something light that has a decent amount of cushion. Not that you are an expert on all things running, but just curious what you're running in. I'm tempted to get a pair of Hokas but don't want to spend the money with out some quality reviews I trust beforehand.

[eddiegotsole]

Tjr,

I am a minimalist runner so my shoes of choice are very light and flexible.  Those type of shoes don't work for everyone though because you feel more of the ground impact and it will require adapting your running form to a more "mid-foot" strike.

All of that said, I do know a little bit about running shoes and I'll be happy to share my recommendations of shoes which I think are good options.

#1 - Saucony Kinvara 5.  Based on what you asked for a light shoe with a little bit of cushioning, this would be a great option.  It is a very popular shoe and promotes efficient running without being a true minimal shoe.  There may be a bit of a transition period with this shoe though as it promotes a midfoot strike due to the 4mm heel to toe ratio (traditional running shoes have 12mm ratio).  You are likely to feel it a bit in your calves so take it easy for the first several runs and rotate them in and out of your running schedule.

#2 - New Balance Fresh Foam 980.  I have not run in this shoe, however I have many friends who do and they love it.  This shoe has significantly more cushioning than the Saucony Kinvara but about the same heel to toe ratio which promotes good form.  

#3 - Brooks Pure Flow 3.  I run in a lighter more minimalist version of this shoe (the Pure Drift) but this one would cater to your needs better.  This shoe has the same 4mm drop as the above 2 shoes.  The design of the shoe does promote good form as well, but it is also designed to adapt to your running style.

I'd recommend, if possible, trying these out before you buy them, if you have a local running store which would allow you to do so!

[eddiegotsole]

Hey TJR, have you decided on new running kicks? Just curious what you went with and honestly you won't offend me one bit if you didn't pick one of my suggestions!

[tjr42px]

I haven't actually picked a pair up.  We were visiting family for a bit, then when we got home the weather has been freezing.  Not making me all that motivated to pound the pavement.  I'm leaning toward the Kinvara 5s.  Mostly because I've tried a number of different New Balances over the years and never really found the right ones...maybe the 980s would be a good fit who knows.  To be completely honest, now that I can wear any color shoe for organized workouts, I much prefer the color options of the K5s.  Lol...I know I know it's all about the ride, but when you are stuck in pure white kicks, sometimes you make a few sacrifices for style points.

[eddiegotsole]

Feb 19, 2015 21:07:56 GMT -5 tjr42px said:

I haven't actually picked a pair up.  We were visiting family for a bit, then when we got home the weather has been freezing.  Not making me all that motivated to pound the pavement.  I'm leaning toward the Kinvara 5s.  Mostly because I've tried a number of different New Balances over the years and never really found the right ones...maybe the 980s would be a good fit who knows.  To be completely honest, now that I can wear any color shoe for organized workouts, I much prefer the color options of the K5s.  Lol...I know I know it's all about the ride, but when you are stuck in pure white kicks, sometimes you make a few sacrifices for style points.

I completely feel you on this point!  I wore Kinvara's for a while and I LOVED the color options!  Red / Black, Neon Yellow / Red, Orange, Blue, Green etc. you can really find a color that fits your style!  Not to mention they are probably up there with the most comfortable shoes I've owned even just to walk around in, but definitely for running!

[tjr42px]

I went with the BPF3s. I'll let you know how it goes. I had a few gift cards and they seemed like a good fit. Couldn't give them a true test, but I bet they'll be a good fit for my needs.

I have a mock PFT in a few weeks. I might hold off really working them in as my primary shoe until after. Lol, I haven't run more than a few warm up laps since my last official test in October, so I guess what's the harm in just jumping right in?

[eddiegotsole]

Mar 1, 2015 16:16:36 GMT -5 tjr42px said:

I went with the BPF3s. I'll let you know how it goes. I had a few gift cards and they seemed like a good fit. Couldn't give them a true test, but I bet they'll be a good fit for my needs.

I have a mock PFT in a few weeks. I might hold off really working them in as my primary shoe until after. Lol, I haven't run more than a few warm up laps since my last official test in October, so I guess what's the harm in just jumping right in?

I think they will serve you well! Best of luck with the mock PFT!