I bought a pair of Asics Kayano 19s today – my first pair of “real” running shoes.
I started running over a year ago (never very well, but I was doing it), but I quit a few months ago, in part, because my right foot has been hurting me. That was the only exercise I was getting.
It took me a while to figure out that it was my New Balance 690s that were the problem – along with my weight. Not that they’re bad shoes. They just weren’t the right ones for me.
I spent more money than I really wanted to – and quite a bit more than I’ve ever paid for a pair of shoes. Thing is, I’ve never been able to find a really comfortable pair of shoes for exercising. This time, I decided I needed to spend a little more and get a good pair of shoes so I don’t destroy my feet.
I went to a specialty shop. Josh at On the Run here in Houston’s Clear Lake area was very helpful. He helped me determine that I needed a stability shoe (which the ones I had were not) and showed me several shoes at different price points with differing levels of stability. I picked the ones that felt the best, and we’ll see how they work out!
If you live in the Clear Lake area, I’d definitely recommend On the Run. The store is staffed with runners who are helpful and knowledgeable.
All that being said, I can tell you from first hand experience that it’s worth some extra money to buy a good pair of shoes, whether you’re running or walking. A bad pair may do you more harm than you realize.
Jud's a Loser 