TRIED AND TRUE: RUNNING SHOES

MY CURRENT SHOE ROTATION AND WHY

OVERVIEW:

Tried and True is a series I have put together to share what I tested and use daily.

This can be clothing, gear, supplements, apps, and more.

KEY NOTE: I have a career in real estate investment, and fitness/mental health is a passion of mine. I will only give guidance on what I use daily, regardless of whether I work with them or not. I want to be transparent. Not everything I use I work with.

Let’s dive in:

Benefits of Good Running Shoes:

1. Injury Prevention:
   Good running shoes provide proper cushioning and arch support, reducing impact on joints, especially knees, ankles, hips, and lower back.

2. Improved Performance:
   Shoes designed for your gait and foot shape help improve running efficiency, allowing you to run longer or faster with less effort.

3. Comfort:
   Proper fit and breathable materials prevent blisters, hot spots, and toenail issues (which I always have, but that’s because my right foot is 1 full size bigger than my left foot. If anyone wants to trade a right size 10 for an 11 let me know ;)).

4. Support & Stability:
   They guide your foot through a proper motion path, correcting overpronation or supination if necessary.

5. Shock Absorption:
   Midsole cushioning absorbs the repetitive impact of each stride, protecting muscles and tendons.

How Often Should You Change Running Shoes?

• Every 300–500 miles (480–800 km) is the general rule. I tend to lean more towards 250 miles.

• For most runners, that’s every 4 to 6 months, depending on:

  • Your weight (heavier runners = faster breakdown)

  • Running surface (trail = more durable, concrete/asphalt = quicker wear)

  • Running style (heel-strikers may wear shoes faster)

• Signs you need new shoes:

  • Outsole tread is worn down

  • Midsole feels flat or compressed

  • New aches/pains in knees, shins, or feet

  • Shoes no longer feel as comfortable

Tip:
Rotate between 2 pairs of shoes to extend their lifespan and reduce injury risk.

Now, what shoes do I use and why?

EASY RUN SHOE

This is the slow pace, building volume at a conversational pace. Most people will fall into this category.

1. NEW BALANCE 1080s

If you’re looking for a super comfortable running shoe, the New Balance 1080 is honestly one of the best out there. It’s got this really soft cushioning that makes long runs feel way easier on your joints, but it’s still light enough if you want to pick up the pace. The fit is super comfortable—breathable up top and snug around the heel so it doesn’t slip. Plus, the bottom has this nice curved shape that helps you roll through each step smoothly. If you’re running a few times a week or training for something longer, it’s the kind of shoe that just makes running feel better overall.

LINK TO PURCHASE - $165

2. ASICS NOVABLAST 5

If you want a running shoe that feels super bouncy and fun, the ASICS Novablast 5 is a solid choice. It’s got this lightweight foam that gives you a bit of a trampoline effect with every step—seriously, it makes running feel way more energetic. Even though it’s soft underfoot, it’s not squishy, so you still get some nice pop when you push off. The fit is snug but breathable, and they improved the stability on this version so it doesn’t feel wobbly like older models. If you want something that makes everyday runs feel lighter and more fun, this is the one I’d recommend.

LINK TO PURCHASE - $140