Running/Trail Shoes

Kido

I'm after a pair of running shoes for running round our local reservoir in the mud and wet, and my route also takes me on roads. I've only just started running outdoors so don't want to spend more than necessary, but I also want a decent pair that will support my feet as I broke my ankle last year.

I live in Bolton I was wondering about visitng the specialist running shop but I'm worried that they're just going to try and sell me something more expensive than I need.

Is going to a specialist shop my best bet, or will an ordinary high street store do just as well?

As I say, I'm a novice runner. Normally I stick to treadmills, but with "summer" upon us I've decided to run outdoors as well.

Realbairn

You definitely need to go to a proper running shop in order to get a gait analysis, this will help ensure you get the right type of shoe. Tell them your budget and they should work within that budget. If you still feel its too expensive, make an excuse and buy what you are looking for online (taking note of the shoes they recommend) A good shop will allow you a trial run in the shoes be it on a treadmill or on a run area that has been made in the shop. if going online to buy shoes use shops such as www.startfitness.co.uk , www.sportsshoes.com, www.sweatshop.co.uk. all usually have offers and are very reliable. Definitely steer clear of ordinary high street shops such as JJB, JD etc as they don't tend to have the knowledge or expertise that proper running shops have. I know most running shops have staff that are actual runners themselves.

When starting to run outdoors be prepared to do less, a lot of folk find the transition quite difficult as running outdoors is very very different to running on a treadmill.

Kido

Thanks for the advice. I'll go to the running shop tomorrow and see what I can find.
Having tried a run round the local reservoir last weekend, it is much tougher outdoors rather than the treadmill. Hopefully though it'll be worth persevering with. Fingers crossed the weather clears up a bit so I can enjoy the outdoors with my brother whilst he's here.

downhillfast

The advice above is spot on IF you are looking to buy shoes for mostly road work. If you are looking to run mainly on trails (and use trail shoes - studier with more grip) then gait analysis is not really required as your feet will rarely land the same way twice on off-road terrain.

Kido

Thanks for the advice. Went to the local running shop who were great. They knew exactly where I'd be attempting to run, and could therefore me advise me on the best trainers. They brought out lots of pairs and there was no pressure. Came out with a pair that were cheaper than I expected - even at the full RRP, so I was very happy.

Now if only it would stop raining. Hopefully tomorrow morning I'll get out and try them.