Tennis Shoe Advice?

[Jennifer D]

OK - there are probably threads on this topic - but please to indulge me :)

I'm desperately in need of new tennis shoes. [I am a small person with an astoundingly heavy tread - even with insoles I do a number on my tennis shoes! :o] I have bad knees, and my #1 workout is swimming. When NOT swimming, however, I tend to powerwalk on a treadmill, with a bit of bike and elliptical trainer thrown into the mix.

Lately my feet have been bothering me more - due I'm sure to the crappy shoes. I also think some of the knee pain I get when walking on treadmills is due to less than stellar shoes. So I'm trying to make a very wise decision on this round of shoe-purchasing - and I'm not sure what type of shoe I should get - walking, running, or cross-training.

I've always shied away from walking shoes - in part because I need a shoe with a very lightweight construction on top, and walking styles usually don't fit that mold. I also just never think of walking shoes as being that hearty - or good for any activity other than walking. But I don't know if they would be notably better for my feet, knees ,etc on the treadmill? I was once told running shoes are the better way to go - even for walking...but I can't vouch for the veracity of that claim.

I do know all about getting a shoe appropriate for your stride (pronation, suppination, etc...) I'm just really undecided as to what "Type" to go for. So if any of you workout gurus have any advice, I'd be most grateful!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry for the rambling post - it was a very very late night! :rolleyes:

[MaryH]

Don't know about cross training shoes but what you heard about run v walk shoes is the same thing I have been told. If you run (even a little bit) it is better to get running shoes because they will always work for walking (but not vice versa). The running shoes have more padding/support to absorb shock (and hopefully this will ease your foot/knee pain.)

[kirkbyky]

I also have a heavy tread, cranky knees & hips. I walk for exercise on occasion, but wanted a relatively lightweight shoe that provided good arch/foot/ankle support for activities other than walking. I went into a local shoe place, got great service & a pair of expensive :eek: shoes. I've been wearing Brooks running shoes now for 3 yrs & my feet, knees & back are thankful! I wear the Addiction 4, though I think that they may have renamed it. Everybody's feet are different, but good shoes are worth it. Really take the time to shop around--go in with the intention of walking around the store for a half hour in the shoe that your considering. If you're gonna drop $100 + on shoes, the store should let you hang out in their product for a while. Also, don't underestimate the need for good cushy socks.

Good luck,

Kyle

[aggie94]

Originally posted by kirkbyky
If you're gonna drop $100 + on shoes, the store should let you hang out in their product for a while.

Related to this, a good store will also let you return them after a wearing or two (usually on the treadmill, although some have even let me try them out on outdoor surfaces) if they don't work out.

[AzAnne]

My DS is assistant mgr. at an athletic shoe store.. I'm quoting from him.

Running shoes are going to be the best because they are the lightest weight, and made to absorb the most shock. Recommendations are in order...

1. New Balance 1220
2. Mizuno Wave Creation
3. Adidas Supernova Control
4. Nike Air Katara
5. Asics Gel Kayano
6. Saucony 3D Grid Hurricane
7. Reebok Premier Stability

Best thing to do is try each pair and see which you feel most comfortable with.

[Jennifer D]

Thanks so much for all the input everyone - and for the specific brand and model info!!

I used to only buy running shoes, but I think I got a bit lax with my purchases once the knees axed my running, and when I started swimming so much.

My shopping will go so much better now that I have a definite idea what I'm looking for!! I do have to gripe, though, that buying running shoes seems HARDER than it used to be. I was really surprised by the lack of running stores in this area. And ye olde standbys, like Foot Locker, devote way too much space anymore to "fashion" shoes (just my humble opinion). Sheesh - it's almost as aggravating as shopping for jeans! :o :D I did try a few pairs yesterday, but nothing that felt quite right. I'm hoping for success tomorrow. I'm ridiculously excited by the thought of having new shoes....a clear sign it's well past time for the current tennis shoes to hit the trash can!!!

:)

[Guest]

Try to find an independent running shoe store. We have one close by that stocks a good selection of serious running shoes. The staff takes the time to help you find a good fit and you can wear them for a 3 mile run to test them out. If they aren't right, the store will exchange them. I just bought a new pair of Brooks running shoes there a few weeks ago to replace a well worn pair. I am not a runner, but use them for walking and the cardio equipment at the health club.

[jefoster]

I agree about going to a speciality running shoes store. They can help you match your stride with your activity. I suggest you take your current shoes so they can look at soles and it help them know about your stride. Also if you do different activities you may need different shoes. I believe that if you run the treadmill you should only use running shoes. However, running offers very little stability for laeral movement.