I read an article a couple months ago about how it’s best to have several different pairs of running shoes. As the thinking went, each inpidual shoe affects your foot strike, gait, muscle use, etc. in subtly different ways. Therefore, if you’re on a shoe cycle, you’re less likely to suffer injuries from overuse.
I don’t know how much hard scientific data there is to back that theory, but I know I don’t want any more overuse injuries, so I’m trying it!
The difference this time: I’m not going to store to be fitted.
See, I read another article in Runner’s World stating that some studies show that your level of comfort in an inpidual shoe can indicate a good choice, even over someone watching your stride and making recommendations. So I’ve been branching out and making some purchases on my own.
First up is my consistent love, the Brooks Ravenna (right). I’ve strayed before, but I vow now to keep it in my rotation forever. It has brought me back from many a poor sneaker decision.
Next, the Brooks Ghost (left). I got an email that it was on sale and it promised a lot of cushion, so I took a chance. And boy howdy, does it deliver on that cushion – this baby is soooooft. Which is nice! But doesn’t make me feel speedy. When this pair wears out I’ll likely investigate other options.
Finally, the wild card: the Under Armour Sonic Hovrs. I don’t see UA bandied about much in discussions of running shoes. But I have a friend on the inside – my buddy A works for UA, and when he told me a special company meeting was convened just to announce their new running shoes, I decided to give it a go.
AND WE HAVE A WINNER! These sleek, sexy sneaks have less cushion than the Ghosts but enough to keep me from feeling like I’m slamming my joints around, plus the delightful bounce I enjoy from the Ravenna.
They’re labeled neutral, but for my undecided feet (one neutral, one stability) I’ve been having great results. I used them to run my recent 14 miler and they were faaaaabulous. Love!
One note: they’ve got a sizing quiz thingee to help you select a size based on what you wear in other sneaker brands. I wear an 8 in Brooks and was told to get a 7.5 in the UA. This was a lie; I could use the extra half size. Oh well; I’ll know next time!
That’s my current shoe rotation! Do you use multiple kinds of shoes? What should I try next instead of the Ghosts?
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Funny this comes up now. Sadly, due to recent events, I find myself embarrassed to be running in a certain Seattle based brand these days. I've wanted to try UA, but they unfortunately used a certain obnoxious football qb's wife as one of their "models" and once again I find myself nauseous at their choice of said obnoxious (and extremely unhealthy looking) public figures. What's a girl to do when her choice of shoe becomes limited by her nausea of companies who make pitiful choices in representation?
Hey, I do really like the Brooks Ravennas! And I just read an article about some new Hokas that are supposed to have a ton of cushion. I've never used Hokas but that sounds promising?