Runners World recently put out this great blog (http://www.runnersworld.com/running-shoes/5-common-myths-about-running-shoes) discussing the common myths of running shoes – as a podiatrist I get asked about each of these everyday! I’ve summarised the key points below:
- There is a best running shoe – Easily the most common myth about running shoes. There is “no” best” running shoe! We are all individuals, we each prefer different features in our shoes – so what I like is different to what my running partner enjoys. Not to mention that different running shoes are designed for different types of running!
- All Nikes are created equal – Another common misconception. So often you hear people say “I only run in Asics or Nike”. As a runner you need to find the style that works for you, regardless of brand preference!
- A shoe is a prescription – Over-pronator, flat footed, weak in the ankle – how often do you hear these terms thrown around by shoe stores looking to match you up to a specific style of shoes. From then on you believe that this shoe is the only style for you! The key point here – no shoe is a magic prescription, over time as aspects of your running change your shoe selection is likely to change to!
- Monogamy is a virtue – It is good thing to spread the seed when it comes to running shoes – try a few different styles on the go. Using varying shoes for different runs (speed, trail, long, etc) provides alternative interactions with the surface and a different response from your soft tissues – a positive thing.
- A shoe can make you run fast – the only way to run fast to hit the road/track/trail/pavement/concrete/sand – unless you are running you aren’t running fast!
Above all else – get out there and enjoy the run, you never know where it might lead you!