What should I look for when finding the right kind of shoes for running?

Last night was the first time in forever that I ran for any length of time. I felt extremely exhilerated (sp?) after I was done. It took me a little while to run a mile (17.11min) but it felt good just the same. I want to continue running and lower the time it takes me to run a mile but today I found myself with sore shins.





Before last night I have been a walker....walking anywhere from 3-5 miles nearly everyday I work. (I%26#039;m a respiratory therapist and am all over the hospital to see patients) I also walk when I%26#039;m not at work but it%26#039;s not as far only because the walking I do at work is stop and go...if that makes any sense.





The shoes I have for walking are great however, I don%26#039;t think they are good for running because of the pain I incurred.





Is there a big difference in running and walking shoes? If so what are they?





Should I invest the money into a good pair of running shoes?





Any advice would be helpful.





Thanks!

What should I look for when finding the right kind of shoes for running?
I started running in October. I bought New Balance shoes because my husband is a runner and he had read that this brand is rated as the best running shoes for amateurs. I have foot problems (i.e. I hate shoes...they all make my feet hurt to some extent). I estimate I have run over 50 times since then...I run 1.75 miles every other day at least. I have only timed myself once, but I ran my route in less than 16 minutes, so I figure I probably run a mile in less than 9 minutes easily. I only wear the shoes when I run and they feel really good when I wear them. They were about $70. I am now running over 2 miles and will start running every day in a few weeks...I%26#039;ve signed up to run in a triathlon at the end of March with a few of my girlfriends, so I need to increase my speed! Good luck!
Reply:I have been running for 8 years now. Though I am biased towards Nike as a brand, I would recommend you to go to a running-specific store, like Fleet Feet in Carrboro, NC. They can help you find the right shoe because people buy shoes that aren%26#039;t necessarily right for their feet, but more comfortable or fashionable. But after you get the correct shoes or even if you haven%26#039;t, I would go to any major athletics store and ask the sales associates because they are getting paid to know the products they are selling. Good luck!!!





http://www.fleetfeetsports.com/
Reply:Yes there is a difference between the shoes





and yes pay the money for good running shoes that support your arches
Reply:Go to a sports store and really try them on and feel for comfort. Nike shocks are the greatest.
Reply:Fit and comfort is the most inportant. when u try them on walk around the store with the string tied. u will get an idea if its the right shoe 4 u
Reply:I don%26#039;t know what the shoe manufacturers say but this is what my podiatrist told me. The sole should be more rigid in a running shoe and have a wide profile. Less flex (twist) from side to side means less chance of a sprain if you land on a pebble or something else that could roll under you. Another reason for the rigid sole is if you wear orthotics it hold them in place. No point in having them if they are moving around in your shoe and not supporting your foot where they should be.
Reply:You need to go to a specialty or elite running store. If you don%26#039;t know where to find one, go to runnersworld.com and you can search one out. A running store will have trained associates who can evaluate you and help you choose the best shoes.



scooter