Do I need new running shoes?

Question

I have had my running shoes for about 6 months and i love them (they cured my shin splints!!). I have recently been running longer distances and I have been getting blisters on the inside arch on both of my feet and i have started getting a little bit of back pain (I'm assuming from pounding). Would new shoes help? Would I need shoes made for running longer distances?
P.S. I am running in Asics now.

Answer 1

you should get new shoes about every 500 miles, so 6 months is about the limit on them. blisters and back pain are a definite sign thta these have gone too far.

Asics are great. Theres no specific "long distance" shoe, just wear what feels comfortable to you. It sounds like this last pair worked, so stick with that or something similar.

Answer 2

Yes, you should replace your shoes if you are beginning to experience problems. But before you run out and buy new ones, try to assess your foot structure. Certain types of feet require different types of functionality from the shoes. For example, if you have high arch feet, you need lots of cushion. Some people need rear-foot stability. SO, assess your feet (get to a podiatrist or sports-medicine doctor) and then search for the kinds of shoes that work best for your feet.

I have high arches and have run successfully in Asics & Saucony shoes.

Shin splints are caused by muscle imbalance. Running is great for the back of legs, but not much for the front muscles. So to do away with the shin splints, lie face down in bed hanging your toes off the end. Pull your toes upward against the resistance of the mattress. Repeat in sets as a way to strenghten your shin muslces.

Good Luck

Answer 3

You need to get good running socks and those should stop the blistering. Also 6 months is a long time for a running shoe so you probably need new shoes. If you really like them search the web and see if you can find that same shoe. I would search for them myself but there are alot of different types of asics running shoes.

Answer 4

There are so many running shoes on the market these days. Most shoes will last about 500 miles +/- depending on the quality of the shoe. It sounds like you need a pair of new running shoes.

I would also buy at least two pair of running shoes so you can rotate through them. This will allow your feet to get used to the shoe. Make sure you get fitted for shoes to make sure they are not too tight. This may be what's causing the blisters, although a worn paor of shoes will do the same.

A great pair of running shoes are the best thing to help prevent injuries.

Answer 5

Running shoes should generally be replaced every 300-500 miles, depending on the shoes and the person. That usually translates to about 3-5 months for active runners, longer for less active ones. Your back pain may be arising because it's time to get new shoes.

You should try to adjust your running form so that your feet are not pounding on the ground. Running is tough as it is, there's no reason to make it more difficult on yourself. Also, running should be relaxed, where your upper body is straight, but not tense. Being too rigid often causes strain on your back that could lead to back pain.

As for your blisters, it may be that your shoes are too tight.
Basically, blisters occur because of friction between your feet and your shoes. When you start getting to longer distances, your feet swell quite a bit by the end of your runs, and this may be the source of your blisters. For choosing the size of your shoes, the basic rule of thumb is that there should be approximately a half-inch of space between the front of the shoe and your longest toe. You may also wish to try running with slightly looser laces.

You can also apply petroleum jelly to your arches beforehand to reduce friction. Personally, I like to use the Body Glide lubricant, but Vaseline is just as good.

Finally, you wouldn't believe how hard it is for some people to find shoes that work for them. Since you had success with the ones you have, you should definitely get similar ones next time as well.

Good luck with your running!

Answer 6

Hmm... I'm in high school cross-country, and it has been recommended that we get two pairs of shoes for every 6 month period. Definitely pay a bit for support. superfeet is really good even though it costs like half a shoe. I'm sure that your asics are already running shoes, so you should be fine. For blisters, make sure to cover them and apply medication.

Answer 7

Get and use more than one pair of shoes. If you are going to run seriously you need to use more than just one pair. This will allow you to rotate shoes. It will keep you from getting used to just one pair and when they wear out having to get used to a new pair. Because you create wear patterns in your shoes, which will affect your stance. It will also allow the pair to dry out if you get wet. Your back pain may be from the shoes or the lack of cushioning or simply an imbalance in muscles. You need to do abdominal work to keep yourself balanced.

Answer 8

running shoes are like tires. they add mileage so after a while they lose their function. try Asics or Brooks, they are great shoes for longer distances. get new shoes pronto before you hurt yourself. superfeet insoles are fantastic!!!

Answer 9

i would like to recommend getting misunos because they are what i use and i find them to be really comfortable. i use them for cross country and track and to answer your question, you do need new shoes, just as everyone else said, running shoes are only good for up to 300 to 500 miles.