After a (long!!) break, I recently started running again. I almost immediately started having significant knee pain (in the front, lower knee), and am wondering if I need new shoes. I have fairly flat feet. I am currently wearing 1-2 year old New Balance running shoes. What are your favorite shoes for running? Any other tips for avoiding injury?
Thanks so much!
The best shoes for you will depend on your feet, your stride, and other factors. Your best bet is to go to a specialty store and get evaluated.
If there's a fit2run near you I would go there! They can help you find the best fit for you.
Congrats on jump-starting your running program! If your knee has reacted it might be from tight hamstrings/quads vs. shoes, especially if you haven't run in a while.
If your shoes are more than a year old, I would definitely start fresh.
New Balance are AWFUL for running, in my opinion.
I like:
Brooks
Saucony
Ascis
I suggest that you find a local store that caters to runners. Many offer stride/foot-strike evaluations. They put you on a treadmill and video you while running to see where your foot strikes and how you run. It's the best way to determine what shoe you need.
Brooks! And regular chiropractic care helps with the joints. Ice after running.
Go to a good running store and have them film your bare feet while you run on a treadmill. This will tell them how your feet hit the pavement and they will be able to recommend the right type of shoe.
They might cost a little more there, but you will get the right shoe for your feet and your running style.
Don't fool around with shoes. Good shoes are so important!
I agree that you need to be fitted for running shoes. Find a store in your area that specializes in this and let them fit you. They can determine what kind of arch you have, whether you pronate when you run, whether your foot is wide or narrow, etc. They can also recommend inserts if necessary. Good running shoes truly do make a difference.
