What running shoes do you recommend? [blatant vanity]

FreeRepublic ^ | 08/11/08 | Hacksaw

[Hacksaw]

OK - I've started running again (dropped a pant size too!) but here is the problem: I have a bad knee that gets inflamed if I train too hard too quickly. I have always gotten good advice here in the past, so I am wondering if there are any runners on here that can point my way to a good set of shoes that provides maximum shock protection. I am currently using Asics gels.

[tioga]

running is dangerous, some day you will need a total knee replacement... ;^)

[hole_n_one]

Knee pain is not necessarily due to the shoes..........

Knee Pain

[randomhero97]

As someone who has had work done on both knees I would suggest stay away from long distance jogging or running. Look into maybe doing high intense exercises like sprints or even something like rope skipping.

If you want to get really fancy google GPP (General Physical Prepareness) and it should give you some good excercises. You can try crossfit also.

[Natural Law]

Every foot and stride is unique. I would recommend you visit a specialty store like Fleet Feet (www.fleetfeet.com). They will assess you and make a sound recommendation based upon your physiology, fitnerss level and workout regimen.

[Quix]

Z-COILS

Z-COILS

Z-COILS

Probably with an enclosed spring heel.

Might need the spring tuned to your weight and/or type of stride/step.

Much easier on the knees and the spine.

[counterpunch]

Obama Airs. You can run 3% faster when they’re fully inflated.

[kbennkc]

Get some shoes that fit a bicycle .

[purpleraine]

Knee Pain, the Korean gymnast?

[Quix]

I’d suggest fast walking instead of running altogether.

I have genetically flawed knees . . . air pockets etc. Doc’s said a matter of time. So I’ve been taking care of them for years . . . Still by God’s mercy—no great problems.

I take the liquid joint stuff with everything loaded into it remotely healthy.

Doc even suggested that I avoid all the stairs I can avoid.

Better yet, DO NOT RUN OR WALK FAST—probably, swimming would be lots better on your knees and spine.

However, I’d still get Z-COILS just for normal walking and use. And be careful learning to walk in them. Be conscious and deliberate the first day or 3—particularly if you have a lot of stairs in your life.

Walk in them a good little bit at the store, first. Understand what you’re buying, first.

I wouldn’t trade for them. Great product.

[mt tom]

running is dangerous a mini trampoline would be much less impact

[Quix]

A bike wouldn’t jar the knees or spine as much but would flex the knees as much or more. For some knee problems, that can be as problematic, IIRC.

[04-Bravo]

I like a Brooks shoe called the “Beast.” It’s a corny name, but it’s a pretty good shoe. I use it with a lightweight sock called “Feetures.” Another corny name, but it makes a good combination.

[hole_n_one]

An Ounce of Prevention

[TheWasteLand]

a good set of shoes that provides maximum shock protection

The odds on getting hit by lightening are tiny, even when running, but if you're worried, something with a rubber sole for insulation would be best.

[Hi Heels]

I run in these....

I WANT TO PUT ON MY MY MY MY MY....

BOOGIE SHOES....

JUST TO BOOGIE WITH YOU, YEAH....

I WANT TO PUT ON MY MY MY MY MY....

BOOGIE SHOES JUST TO BOOGIE WITH YOU,UH HUH....

[hole_n_one]

I have a bad knee that gets inflamed if I train too hard too quickly.

I think you answered your own question.

[Mr Rogers]

Good grief! You’re getting a lot of bad advice!

I’ve been running for 35 years and my knees are fine. Just did an 8.5 mile hike today. I’m 50.

I like Air Pegasus. It is a cushioned shoe. Most any of the running shoes in the $70+ range are pretty good.

If you start experiencing knee or leg pain, back off running. Maybe try another shoe, or talk to some runners. Work your mileage up gradually and learn to listen to your body. You’ll know when you’ve done too much.

Don’t listen to the couch potatoes.

[conservativeharleyguy]

The best thing for you to do is find a specialty running/sports shoe store that will spend the time to fit you in the shoe that best meets your needs. If you just go to one of the big shoe outlets, you'll get people who are willing to sell you a pair of shoes, but the odds are there's no one there who knows enough about fitting to actually find you the correct shoe for your feet, goals, and style (running style, not fashion).

There are a lot of factors involved beside just the size of your foot. The height of your instep, width (not just across the ball but the heel as well, etc), Metatarsal protrusion, etc., all make a big difference.

If you really want to run, and avoid all of the dire consequences everyone else on this thread is warning you about, get professional help in finding the right shoe. It may cost you more up front, but it's well worth it in the long run.

Oh yeah, once you find the right shoes, stick with them, and be prepared to buy new ones pretty often (I've often bought 2 pairs of the same shoe when I find it and either rotate them or save one for when the other finally dies). It's not healthy to run in worn out shoes.

[Hacksaw]

As someone who has had work done on both knees I would suggest stay away from long distance jogging or running. Look into maybe doing high intense exercises like sprints or even something like rope skipping. If you want to get really fancy google GPP (General Physical Prepareness) and it should give you some good excercises. You can try crossfit also.

I also do bike - I find that I get a much better workout running. I realize that it is hell on the knees, which is why I am hoping I can get away with it if I have a really decent pair of shoes. So far, the Asics have been okay. I had a pair of Nike Air soles which were great, but I can not find a similar brand anywhere.

Anyway, thanks to everyone for the advice.