A race is coming up where a good portion of the run will be on sand, I believe. What running she would you use for this? Would a change make sense?
Do not go for spikes. They will cut up up the sand more and give you less footing. I would just use your regular road training shoes. Either that or waffles.
Do you run barefoot very often? Nothing is faster in sand than going barefoot.
I’ve seen race rules which prohibit barefoot running in the sand.
I’ve seen race rules which prohibit barefoot running in the sand.
Please tell me you are kidding?! Prohibiting people from running without shoes? Ignorance is ugly.
Was it a big race?
Do you run barefoot very often? Nothing is faster in sand than going barefoot.
Well… I would say the oposite. If you run barefoot your “platform” will be smaller so you will “dig” more into the sand. With the running shoe, you have a bigger one and that should help, I guess…
George Costanza’s training shoes come to mind. The ones with the huge sole
It depends on what you mean by “often”. If by "often–if you mean “never”, then, yes, I often run barefoot. 
It is probably good training for ankle strength to run barefoot in the sand, but I have though that it might lead to injury if I did not start out a little at a time. But I am ignorant about these things.
I don’t do a lot of running on sand so I don’t have much expertise. However, it seems to me that just as important as traction and whatnot is keeping the sand out of your shoes so you don’t get totally cut up.
I just ordered a sample of the New Balance 1100 for the store. It features a neoprene cuff that surrounds your ankle, and is supposed to have a very flexible sole. Could be an interesting combo for running in sand or snow. I’ll let everyone know when I get them.
Lee Silverman
JackRabbit Sports
Park Slope, Brooklyn
Soft sand or compacted sand? I used to run in the sand alot when I was playing beach volleyball and barefoot is by far the best way to go in soft sand. If it is compacted, shoes will be fine. If you are worried about blisters from going barefoot just get a pair of aqua socks or something.
I’ve played a ton of competitive beach volleyball as well & agree barefoot is best. However if you are in a running race & need to run on pavement some of the time you’ll need to wear shoes. Also if you aren’t used to running barefoot in sand you’ll chew the soles of your feet apart. I would wear racing flats, the lighter the better. No need for cushioning because the sand provides too much cushioning already.
Also a tip for keeping fast in the sand - the higher the cadence, the better. If you slog along with big strides, you’ll sink on every step & tire quickly. Run on your toes & keep a fast cadence & you’ll blow by people.