Not a Deadline: New Shoes

I got my very first pair of professionally fitted running shoes! My mom took me to The Runner's Forum in Avon, Indiana. I was looking for the right running shoe, and she was looking for walking shoes. We each had one employee assisting us. The first thing I had to do was take my flip flops off, put socks on, roll my pants' legs up and walk down the runway. (They literally have a section of the store with different flooring that they call the runway. I love it!) While I walked, the employee watched how my feet were striking the ground. He then asked me to do a light jog up and down the runway (which is good because we all know that I am not a fast runner at this point in my journey) to see how my feet were striking the ground while running. The helpful employee then went to the back to find me some shoes.

Now keep in mind, I already generally wear an 11 shoe so I was worried that I would have to get a 12. I had been doing my research on running shoes and found out that many runners will buy shoes a size larger because of swelling or to avoid blisters. The store did not have larger sizes in stock, but it turned out that I didn't need them anyway. The employee (I wish I had gotten his name now) was so nice and told me that the first time I ran in the shoes, if they felt too snug, to bring them back and he would order me the larger size.

I tried on three different pairs of shoes and finally found the ones that had the support I needed while still feeling very natural. The employee also talked to me about running socks. He asked if I always ran in cotton socks, and I told him I did. He suggested I try a pair of running socks, and honestly, I thought he was just trying to sell me some expensive pair of socks. I went ahead and got a pair. He did tell me that since my birthday is coming up that I would also be getting an e-mail with a coupon for a free pair of socks. Well, I love FREE!

Before I left the store, I asked the man about how often I needed to replace my running shoes. I specifically asked about mileage. He said to listen to my body, especially my knees, and if they begin hurting it is probably time to get new shoes. He said that most pairs of running shoes last for approximately six months. He also told me that I would get an e-mail from The Runner's Forum in six months to remind me that my shoes may need replaced and a $10 off coupon for my next pair. Sweet!

I had a chance to test run my shoes and socks the next morning, and they felt amazing! I could really tell a difference after running. I guess those running socks are a good investment and not just a reason to drop $10 on a pair of overly priced socks. I may actually have to go and buy some more!

Want to see my new shoes?