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Written by Jen on Tuesday, 24 March 2009 20:01

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I have had countless customers come to me and ask me about running shoes and which ones I would recommend. I tell them all the same thing...

I have had countless customers come to me and ask me about running shoes and which ones I would recommend. I tell them all the same thing, Brooks or Asics. I then go into the different kind of shoes and how they could use the support if they are longer distance runners or the Neutral shoe if they want something soft and lightweight. About mid-way through our conversation the customer will tell me how they have always worn whatever brand they favor, regardless if it's Asics, Brooks, New Balance or Nike. If the shoe they tell me is a good shoe in my book, I tell them to stick with it. If the shoe is something that could in the long run cause them pain, I suggest something in the same brand but an all around better shoe. My point is, if you have worn the Asics 2100 series for YEARS, stick with that shoe. If it's not broke, don't fix it. You have become accustom to a certain shoe and as long as it's a good quality shoe, there is no reason to change. The shoes only improve over the years, so that shoe you wore 6 years ago, is only going to be better.Or if you are particular to a certain brand and you have been for ages, there is no reason to switch brands because you want to try something different. That could actually end up causing issues because you have adapted to the cushion and support in one shoe and throw a curve ball and get something totally different. You could also be like the older generations and once you find a shoe you like, buy a few of them, then and there so you don't have to worry about the model changing on you when you need a new shoe. You'll just have some stocked away in your closet!

By Anonymous posted on 2009-04-07 03:51:54

change is good sometimes 4 running shoes and some models actually get worse as
the models get newer

By ShoeGoddessJen posted on 2009-04-23 00:45:28

That is true, but the brand can stay the same. So if you are used to Asics,
stick with it. You might have to change shoes, but the overall fit of the brand
should be consistent.

By jim posted on 2009-04-29 19:24:35

I'm confused. Why do you start by recommending Brooks or Asics. Aren't there
other brands that may work better for some runners?

By Linda posted on 2009-05-12 15:39:24

Actually, Jim, it's not so much the "Brand" of shoe but the composition
of the shoe and foot that matters. I also work for Sport Chalet on a part time
basis. From Asics, Brooks, Adidas, Nike, to New Balance....etc..etc...each
makes a great running/walking shoe. The answer to a "proper fitting
shoe" lyes in the composition of every individuals foot. The biomechanics
of the feet are not the same. When running or walking, the gait pattern of each
foot will not strike alike. Before recommending a running shoe to any customer
I start by measuring the customers foot, assessing the composition of their
feet, as well as check for any(if any)biomechanic imbalaces (pronation,
supination, fallen arches, bunions etc.) in their walking/running gait. Than
and only than will I recommend a running shoe that will compliment or help to
correct any imbalaces in their walking/running gait. Improper foot mechanics or
foo...

By ShoeGoddessJen posted on 2009-05-02 18:37:20

Linda has a great point, we fit to everyone individual feet and what would work
best for them. I was stating that if a person is used to wearing a brand for
years and years and it works perfect for them, then to keep going. I've noticed
New Balance runners will generally always be New Balance runners and thats
great! The same goes for every brand, those loyal to a certain brand always have
a tendency to lean towards that because it works for them :)