I’m currently using the same shoes for training and racing, but I want to try a more specific racing shoe and want some advices. For now, I’m on the Asics GT-2140. What racing shoes are similar in terms of build-up? 2140-users, what racing shoes are you using?
/CE
Check out the shoe fetcher on www.roadrunnersports.com. You plug in your gender, wt, arch type, etc. and it will provide suggestions.
I have been using the K-Swiss K-onas. They are really light and comfy. I use them for all hard runs and interval work. I never use them on the trail
DS trainers
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I went from 2140 to Saucony Fastwitch 3 and will never go back. Put on the 2140’s now and they feel like bricks on my feet
I’m on the Fastwitch 3 as well but I’ve come from the Muzino Elixer which is similar to the DS Trainer…which is a lighter version of the 2140.
I know…TMI
jaretj
i an guessing you have wide feet and need stability? I do and I race on the new balance 904. it’s kind of like a flat. At least as close as you can get for wide feet. Although I have read if you cannot do 40 minutes or under in a 10k you should not be wearing flats. I cant do 40 or under but damn I am trying.
DS trainers or Addidas Adizero Mana (better for racing) - BTW - I used to run in the 2140’s as well.
Newtons - Newtons - Newtons. I made the switch and do not think that I will ever go back.
I did talk to the K-Swiss guy at IML this past weekend and their shoes did look nice.
But I forgot, did I say that I run in Newtons? Peace…
Brooks ST4.
Unfortunately this is a answer you have to find out for yourself. Each persons needs and tastes are very different. Unless you are running sub 6 pace or faster a pure race flat is not needed. Try a light performance trainer such as The Mizuno Elixir, Mizuno Precision, DS Trainer etc. You are the only judge of what will work. Each of the shoes suggested are good shoes but ultimately you need to figure out what your needs are and pick a shoe yourself. A performance trainer will give you support but still be light enough to race.
I’ve got to recommend you go to a local running store that can analyze your gate and your feet. Everyone has different feet and different running styles so one shoe that fits your friend probably won’t fit you too. I am in no way the fastest guy out there, but I only run in flats because I am all about saving weight. Why run in a shoe that is 12oz when you can run in a shoe thats 5.5oz (Nike Lunaracer+). Also, running in flats, while it is a huge change on your first run, makes your feet stronger and more durable.
I use two different shoes right now, just swap them out at random. The Saucony A3 and the Nike Lunaracer+. I use the Saucony’s for runs under 8 miles and the Nike’s for anything over 8.
I see here some references on pace to base your decision whether to run in flats. Never heard that before. You always hear something new here.
There are several articles here on slowtwitch written by running experts reviewing different types of shoes. They also do cover who is a candidate suitable for racing flats.
Primarily article and many others point to several factors:
weight
arch type, pronation
biomechanics, running form/gait
Keep in mind that an average elite runner weighs anywhere from 125-140lbs and that an average racing flat weighs about 7-8oz vs your 2140 about 12oz. Less weight means less “rubber” between your foot and the surface.(less impact protection)
You are best served by visiting your local running shop having your gait looked at and take a recommendation.
Now, judging by your current shoe choice, providing no issues with them, you tend to be a slight to moderate overpronator. There are several performance stability trainers (9-10oz) or racing flats to look at and try.
Performance trainers:
Asics DS …13, 14. 15 whatever number they are at
Mizuno Elixir 4
Zoot Ultra Tempo + 2.0
There are other good trainers from Saucony, Avia or Brooks just don’t know them on top of my head.
As far as racing flats, some choices could be:
Mizuno Musha
Saucony Fastwitch 3
Adidas Adizero Mana
All 3 above have some level of stability but minimal.
Newtons are great shoes but are out my bang for the buck price range. All 3 racing flats can be bought at runningwarehouse.com relatively reasonably, my Fastwitch was $44. Keep in mind that these shoes last 100-200mi, unlike your 2140 that can be effective anywhere around 400mi.
While as indicated above, faster runners tend to enjoy more benefits in terms of time savings vs slower runners wearing flats, that is not the only reason to run in them.
If you properly rotate flats into your routine, due to their design, they seem to promote more natural gait and help in developing a proper foot strike if adequate drills are implemented. Caution should be exercised to rotate them in gradually, than do some faster workouts, starting with strides, later progressing to some threshold and track work.
As your A race approaches I would use them during the long runs too if you are going to race them in HIM. For IM distance, I still read articles that point that us, mortals should be running in a little more substantial shoes.
I am no expert on running, nor am I a coach. I could be wrong here, but I tried to summarize a few sources that I read. Like you, I am getting ready to rotate Fastwitch 3 into my fall running. I am 155lbs, slight overpronator, MOP runner (19:30 5k, 1:35 1/2), using Mizuno Inspire 4 as a daily shoe, but racing in Zoot Tempo +2.0.
Thank you for a really good answer, I got some things to consider and from the earlier posts, there are shoes to study further on.
/CE
Actually got that refrence out of a British tri magazine " Triathlete World" Aug 2009. Article actually sez. If you cant break 1:30 for a half mary or 40 minutes in a 10k to stay away from racers (flats). But as I said I run in the New balance 904’s. But I do train in the 2140’s and race in occasionally. I do agree that the Flats make your feet stronger as you use them more. Which I need too.
Well, lucky me, I’m qualified for racing shoes.
/CE
I am working on it. At least Jack Daniels running guide base on my 5k times say’s I can.