What Running Shoes Shall I Wear?

One of the greatest things about running is that you don’t need an array of supplies or equipment to do it. You don’t need a court, field, diamond or rink. The reality is, you have all you need with your body. (Though it is a good idea to put on some clothes)

And since most of us won’t be running on natural surfaces like sand or soft earth, it’s also a good idea to have a pair of shoes to run in. And figuring out which pair of shoes is the best for yourself can be tough sometimes.

When I started running the first time (at age 28 as my sanity-saver after giving birth 3 times in less than 5 years) I wore whatever sneakers I had for the first few months. After a time, I realized that running was something I wanted to do long-term, so I went to a running store and was fitted with shoes that work for me.

I don’t remember which model, but I remember they were New Balance shoes. I loved those shoes and they lasted for a long time. (which was very important considering I had three little people and I was starting a business with my husband)

When I started running the second time (at age 42 after not running for 4 years due to the dang injuries) I knew my beatup body, legs and feet needed a good pair of shoes. Because everything from the structure of my feet, to my gait and my stride had changed, I experimented with various shoes during the first few years back to running.

And guess what, though I have accumulated and still wear some other running shoes, I find myself reaching for my New Balance shoes the majority of the time.

New Balance 890s is what I wore when I did
my first post-accident marathon on May 20, 2012.

This fall at a local race, I was wearing my New Balance 890s when I met a New Balance rep who graciously gave me another pair to wear for my two upcoming races… the Runner’s World Half and the New York City Marathon. I’m grateful for them and have put some training miles on them to make sure they are broke in.

So if you are asking the question many runners ask, “what shoes shall I wear?” I advise you to try out some New Balance shoes. No brand/shoe is perfect for everyone, but with their various styles/models/etc. I wouldn’t be surprised if you find one you like.

Plus, if their shoes work for my beatup body, I think they will work for many others also.

And if you are asking how you know which model you need… I have an answer for you! Go to a running store with staff that is trained and can help you find the best model for you.

For those of you in the Reading area, go to A Running Start in West Reading. Not only do they carry a range of shoes, but they will do a gait analysis to see how you run and what shoe is best for you.

For those of you in the Bethlehem area, check out Aardvark Sports Shop on Main Street.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Do you have a favorite running shoe? If so, what is it?