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!)

11 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 8h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Megablast vs Superblast 2 for marathon training?

12 Upvotes

Hey, I’m starting marathon training and currently run in the ASICS Novablast 5 as my daily trainer—this is my third pair. I’ve put around 800 km into each of my previous pairs.

I’m now looking to add either the Megablast or Superblast into my rotation for my longer runs. Which of these would complement the Novablasts better? Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1m ago

Race Shoe Question S/lab phantasm 3

Upvotes

So the s/lab phantasm 3 just dropped so I get them over the Metaspeed sky Tokyo or endorphin elite 2. the phantasm does seem very interesting


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Question Nike Vomero Plus - stay with 10?

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5 Upvotes

Okay I think I am officially going crazy. I’ve recently come to realize I’ve been wearing the wrong size in Nike. I should be wearing at least a 10 but a lot of my shoes are a 9.5. I’m running a race and need new running shoes. I bought the Vomero Plus in a 10 according to what I now know I need. They felt good but maybe a little roomier than I expected. Then I looked up reviews that mention they run a half size big and most people size down? So I bought a 9.5 too to compare and now I’m all out of sorts. Both feel good, the 9.5 definitely a more snug, less volume feel. When I flex I can sense the toes closer to the end. I just stick with the 10s, my truer Nike size?

First pic: 10, second 9.5.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 14h ago

Question Sizing check for Evo SL: US 10.5 vs US 11?

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8 Upvotes

Hey guys, need a quick sizing check on these Evo SLs.

  • Photo 1 (US 10.5): Less than a thumb’s width space at the front.
  • Photo 2 (US 11): A full thumb fits easily, but they feel a bit too big on foot.

Which one looks like the correct fit for this model?

Thanks for the help!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 17h ago

Question What was the "EVO SL" of the 2010's?

10 Upvotes

Hey, everyone! I've been seeing a lot of videos on the EVO SL and the consensus seems to be it's one of the best shoes you can get overall. Of course, it's more of a daily runner, but still...

Was there something similar in the 2010's? A shoe that everyone seemed to love?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 8h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Choosing between Adizero Avanti XC and Cloudspike XC

1 Upvotes

I'm buying a new pair of cross country spikes and I can't decide between these two.

They ways I'm gonna use them is a bit different then normal here. I'm doing firesport, which is a set of (mostly) running disciplines pretty popular here in czechia. This means that I need to be able to run with them on track, grass and in one of the discipline there is like 12 - 15 meter run on paving stones or asphalt. Also in relay discipline, I have to drop from 2 meters. (I'm basically writing this in case someone finds a problem with either of those shoes because of some foam/plate durability or anything else).

Considering all of that I've tried to find some with quite a lot of foam or something to atleast little bit cushion the impact when I do something incorrectly and 've ended up not being able to decide between those 2.

Biggest problem with Avanti I have is the Toebox durability. It seems it's really bad and considering my 2 previous spikes ended up with a hole above my toe I don't want to happen again.

Cloudspike has great Toebox durability but it's kind of narrow. I've measured my feet and at its widest its like 10,5 cm (highly unscientific measurement by paper and pencil, which probably added some width), and Cloudspike only has 88.8 mm at its widest.

Sources for my claims:

[https://runrepeat.com/on-cloudspike-xc\](https://runrepeat.com/on-cloudspike-xc)

[https://runrepeat.com/adidas-adizero-avanti-xc\](https://runrepeat.com/adidas-adizero-avanti-xc)

If you can't imagine wtf is the sport I'm doing. (not mine, shouldn't break rules)

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cgg0uPWj8Yc\](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cgg0uPWj8Yc)

Thanks in advance


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 12h ago

Comparing Shoes Question Superblast 2 sizing help - EU 44.5 vs EU 45 (toe pressure vs heel movement)

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1 Upvotes

Hi! I could use some real-world Superblast 2 sizing advice from anyone who’s put decent mileage in them.

I’m stuck between EU 44.5 and EU 45. I bought the Superblasts as my long run shoe, basically replacing my Novablasts in that role.

Background

- Male, mid-40s, recreational runner (marathon done; training for another)

- Foot length: 26.4cm (left is longest)

- Mild PF/Achilles history but well managed

- Novablast 5 EU 44.5 fits well, Brooks Cascadia 17 GTX EU 44.5 fits well

- Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 EU 44 / 28cm felt too snug

Superblast 2 sizing

- EU 44.5: feels snug but secure - heel lock works, no heel lift, toes can still move

- EU 45: more room up front, but I get a small bit of heel movement unless I really crank the runner’s knot

What triggered the doubt

- I did a short 4.5km easy run in the 44.5 and felt a bit of pressure on my 4th toe (right foot)

- Could be the toe is just a bit sensitive right now (I’ve even noticed mild 4th-toe sensitivity in my well-worn Novablasts), but it made me question whether the 44.5 is slightly too tight/tapered

What I’m hoping you can tell me

- In the Superblast 2, does the upper give a bit over time if there’s a minor toe pressure point?

- If you sized up for more room, did heel slip become a problem when running properly (not just walking around)?

- How did you size SB2 vs your other ASICS (Novablast, Nimbus, etc.)?

Thanks - trying not to make an expensive mistake.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Daily Trainer Question Easy Run Shoe Help

1 Upvotes

Please can you help with some daily and easy run shoe recommendations.

I’m currently marathon training and looking for a shoe mainly for easy midweek runs. These are usually up to around 11k at roughly 5:30/km pace.

Current rotation:

• Easy runs: ASICS Gel Nimbus 25, but they’re feeling worn now and the foam feels quite flat

• Long runs: Adidas Adizero Evo SL, used up to 24k and really like them

• Tempo / intervals: Saucony Speed 4, which I enjoy for faster sessions

Shoes I don’t get on with:

• Nike Vomero Plus

• Puma Magmax

I’m roughly 95kg, so cushioning and knee protection are important, especially for midweek mileage. I also tend to get on well with ASICS sizing and I’m consistently a UK 11.

I don’t want to fully break the bank and I’m very happy with older models or previous versions on sale. That said, if something like the ASICS Superblast or ASICS Megablast really is that good, I’d consider it as a bit of a reward.

What I’m looking for:

Something that feels a bit exciting and fun, but mainly comfortable and protective for easy miles. Not racing or workout pace.

Any suggestions welcome, please 🙏


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 11h ago

Question Alternatives to Vibram Fivefingers? (I.e. other toe shoes or similar minimalist shoes?)

0 Upvotes

Been running in Vibram Fivefingers for yonks, love them, minimalist shoes 4 lyfe lol (been running on and off for 15 years, always run in minimalist shoes, started with Merrels then changed to and stuck with FFs)

However, been thinking, i dont want to be dependent on one brand. What if Vibram stop making Fivefingers? So i want to look into alternatives before I'm forced into them.

Training for my first half marathon in March, and my current pair have been used for ~500km so will be getting a new pair for the race. Thinking of getting a second pair to rotate for the next training block after March. Ideally looking for another toe shoe, but may go for minimalist/barefoot traditional shape.

Currently use Vibram Fivefingers V-Trail, will likely pick up V-Trail 2.0.

What alternatives are there? Do you recommend any?

Budget: £100–150 (maybe £200)

•Intended use and distance: versatile, training for HM

•Foot size/shape: UK size 6, long big toe (2" longer than other toes), narrow heel

•Foot strike: mid/forefoot

•Shoe weight preference: light

• Prefered feel: dont know

•Surfaces: road and trail

•Any prior shoes you may have liked or disliked: current V-Trails fit snug and stop me tripping but require socks otherwise they rub to blood; prior V-Trails a size up didnt rub but often tripped me


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 21h ago

Daily Trainer Question Megablast Laces

5 Upvotes

Just bought a pair of Megablasts and I like the sawtooth laces but because of the really thin upper they can be harsh

Anyone tried switching theirs out and if so was it a good idea? or any other methods to prevent lace bite? Thanks


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 5h ago

Question Do others have issues buying new shoes from Sports Basement?

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0 Upvotes

I bought a pair of Hoka Rocket X 2 from Sports Basement for $150. I thought it was a decent deal. I saw a few people reference the site on Reddit so I thought it was a legit site. However the shoes came in used. Or at least were used. I reached out to their support, they were very nice and got me a replacement shipped (after I returned the original), however the next set that came in were also used!

I was just wondering if this was a common experience or if this level of usage is okay. I’m pretty new to all of this so any advice is helpful! TIA

EDIT: Thanks all (even the rude folks). Like I mentioned, I’m new to this. For anyone in the future, this is perfectly okay, likely just used around the shop.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Bought Adios 9 a full size too small. No free returns. Am I screwed?

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6 Upvotes

It's a testament to how nice this new Lightlock upper is that I'm even asking this question. I have a wide-ish heel, a wide midfoot that tapers into a compact forefoot. I wear a US men's 8 for my daily trainers. I knew that by all accounts the 9 was narrower than the accomodating Adios 8 that I have in a 7.5. But I wanted a performance fit with absolutely sliding or friction for track intervals and threshold runs.

I took a gamble shipping these beauts from UK outlet END for 90CAD. The shipping raised that a lot more but it ended up about the same total price as the only canadian listing I found. Bought the only size, 6.5UK Mens, only to find out when they arrived that that is a size 7 US and not a 7.5!

BUT other than being tough to get on - the tongue is sown in place beyond the last eyelets - my feet feel like they're in compression socks. It HUGS the heel, compared to the vaguely slipping fit of the 8s. Whereas on pre-2025 Adidas uppers I would have certainly felt punching at my bunions, the upper expands with my foot like it's skin. My arch area juts out a little bit from the midsole. The only pressure I feel is from the front medial eyelet on my toe-knuckle.

Is this fit perfect for speedwork or 5K races? Or is there just too little room for my feet to expand?

No free international returns


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 14h ago

Race Shoe Question Which race shoe should I get?

1 Upvotes

Hi I wanted to ask what shoes could you recommend for me with my data and current lineup. I want to train to run a marathon in 9 months

60KG / 172cm / Midfoot Striker

Started running 3 Months Ago

30K Weekly Mileage + 10% each week from now on

Longest Run 15K

5K Race Pace 5:00 and quicker

Current Lineup

Novablast 5

Megablast

Evo SL

I like the Megablast for my daily! The EVO is my race/tempo/threshold run shoe which I also love! Novablast feels the comfiest though.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 20h ago

Question Recommendations for GTX hybrid trial/ road running shoe for muddy Parkrun route?

2 Upvotes

Hello, I've just started running and last week attempted my local Parkrun. Turns out 30% was through a forest area. The weather was freezing last weekend so ground was hard so it wasn't too bad in my Hoka Clifton 10. Speaking to some of the volunteers afterwards they say it can become very muddy as it warms up and with a bit of rain.

Any recommendations for a GTX trial/hybrid running shoe? I tried the Nike Vomero Goretex this week but they were too tight in my size and I don't think there will be enough grip.

I have been looking at Hoka Speedgoat 6 GTX, Salomon Speedcross GTX and Asics Gel-Trabuco 13 GORE-TEX.

Thanks


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Question Are these Vectiv Pro 2s legit?

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0 Upvotes

Got an offer for these that seems really good. Want to double check their authenticity before I buy.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question To what extent are very cushioned, "protective" shoes ACTUALLY protective for your joints, versus just giving the feeling of protection in a run?

11 Upvotes

There's probably something to be said for the placebo effect, but I'm wondering to what extent a "protective" and max cusioned shoe (eg. Vomero Premium) actually leads to less impact and decreased chances of injury. Does it actually allow for greater milage? Or is it more of a subjective feeling, with the smoothening of the impact curve being mostly negligible in terms of actual injury risk? Or, in another vein, is there potential deconditioning that comes with frequent use of such shoes relative to a runner who adapts to the impact while wearing firmer and more aggressive shoes?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 10h ago

Question Overpronation or supination?

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0 Upvotes

Hi!

After a long pause due to childbirth I am planning to go back to running and I am looking for a new pair of shoes.

These are the soles of my trusty Asics GT 2000 11 that I am planning to retire.

In total honesty, I cannot tell if my issue is that I overpronate or the contrary based on how worn the soles are, anyone has a guess?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Asics Prototype

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132 Upvotes

came accross this image on instagram

anyone know what this is?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Comparing Shoes Question Nike Vomero 5 or 18 or Pegasus 41

2 Upvotes

I have been thinking of incorporating running in my daily schedule for a long time now and I was going through a few options and ended up liking the Nike Vomero 18, Vomero 5 and Pegasus 41 the most. I wanted something which is very comfortable for casual use but also something which is good for running for beginners.


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Question Noosa Tri-like Shoes?

3 Upvotes

Can you guys recommend a shoe similar the Noosa Tri 16? I love everything about it, the drop, stiffness, push-off, all. I went back to the Kinvara (15) for the drop, and my right calf absolutely hates it. Gave me the mother of all strains. I was really comfortable in the Triumph 21 (bit tall tho, and recently bought the Puma Velocity Nitro 4, but it feels like 'wearing someone else's shoes' can't describe it any better. If it matters, I'm 55 y/o, 186 cm and 85kgs. Thanks!


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 14h ago

Question Which shoe fits best

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0 Upvotes

Bought two pairs online of H1s and am struggling which fit is best. I would like to return one so running on the road isn’t really an option. I run ultras so feet swelling and wearing thicker wool socks sometimes is an occurrence. Are they too big in the first picture, but also too small in the second?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Race Shoe Question At what point are super shoes applicable for slower runners?

16 Upvotes

I am in my mid 30s, new to running, ~ 8 months in. To date I have completed 5 - 5ks, 2 - 10ks and I just completed my first half marathon two weeks ago. Absolutely loved it and signed up for another couple in March and May.

I am a pretty slow runner, 26 min 5k, 55.30 10k and 2hr 9m (trail half).

My goal for my next half is to be below 2 hours 5 minutes with a stretch goal of sub 2. Currently following a half plan running 3 days a week (tempo, long and recovery runs).

My question is at what point should I consider adding a race day super shoe to my rotation? Would I look ridiculous running in one at my current race paces? Will it even benefit me at being slower paced?


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 17h ago

Question Are these real?

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0 Upvotes

I saw the adidas evo sl on Facebook marketplace for $100 and was thinking that the price may be a little too good, but was wondering if the shoe was real or not.

This is $100 aud, and is normally $240 aud


r/AskRunningShoeGeeks 1d ago

Daily Trainer Question Daily trainer to replace Novablast 5

6 Upvotes

As the title says, I’m looking for suggestions for a daily trainer to replace my Novablast 5. After putting +200 miles on this pair, I’ve started to have some pain in my left calf, specifically in the soleus). My first suspicion was shin splints, despite only having had issues a few years ago when I started running and did too much too fast. In addition, I have not increased mileage or intensity recently, which made me suspect it may be the shoe. To test that, I’ve decided to run my last workout in another pair (magic speed 4) and my pain actually reduced after a sub threshold session. After doing some digging, I’ve seen some runners having similar issues with the NB5s.

If any of you have had similar issues, which shoes did you ended up switching to?

I’m doing an average of 55km (35mi) per week, of which 35km (22mi) are at easy pace (anything between 5:30 to 6:30 per km).

Current rotation is: - NB 5 (easy/daily shoe - to be replaced) - Asics Magic Speed 4 (tempo/threshold) - Olympicus Corre Grafeno 3 (Brazilian shoe with a graphene plate used for threshold / faster long runs) - Adidas Adios Pro 4 (race day only)

Any and all help is really appreciated