I trained all last year and did IMMoo in the Nike Air Max 360. At the time I got them, I was carrying more weight and was a serious heel striker, so, I needed the extra cushioning. My mechanics are much better now and I am quite a bit lighter, so, I am looking for an alternative shoe that provides good padding, but, is lighter. I know this is highly subjective, but, any ideas?
Also, do you use different shoes for different types of runs? For example, I am considering sticking with the Air Max 360 for my long runs and going with a lighter shoe (which I will eventually race in) for my shorter runs and speed work. Anyone do this? Any issues with switching shoes/manufacturers?
Try the Nike Zoom Vomero as alternative to the 360.
I use the 360, Nike Zoom Miler, Zoom Elite and Pegasus for training. I use the Miler for Long runs, tempo runs and IM racing. The others for easy running. The 360 is one of my favorite easy run shoes, mostly because it won’t really wear out.
I use the Nike Zoom Katana Cage Racer for 1/2 IM and shorter racing distances.
The answer is yes. Most shoe manufacturers now have separate categories for shoes based on what the intended use is and/or what your foot type is. You can try a performance shoe for speedwork, or you can use a racing shoe. The performance shoe (9-10 oz) has more cushion than a racing shoe (5-8 oz) and is therefore usually heavier, but not so heavy as a training shoe (~13 oz or more).
I use the 360’s now, and really like them. Why? Forefoot Air cushioning, no EVA, carbon rubber sole, no doodads trying to steer my foot in the wrong direction. Haven’t found all of that in any other shoe. So I can’t make any recommendations there. I use my Nike Waffle Racers and Puma H-Streets for various short-distance speedier stuff, and treadmill work.
I use the 360’s now, and really like them. Why? Forefoot Air cushioning, no EVA, carbon rubber sole, no doodads trying to steer my foot in the wrong direction. Haven’t found all of that in any other shoe. So I can’t make any recommendations there. I use my Nike Waffle Racers and Puma H-Streets for various short-distance speedier stuff, and treadmill work.
I understand and agree with what you are saying about nothing “tyring to steer my foot.” I tried the Asics Kayano, but, felt it was trying to manipulate my foot movement too much. But, why do you like the absence of EVA? Is it b/c you feel more freedom of movement in the foot?
I like the 360 for the long stuff, but, when I am doing speed work or just a 2-4 mile transition run, feels a little “lunky” at times.
I use the Nike Zoom Hayward for both training and racing. It’s very neutral, well cushioned but also very light. I weigh 155lbs and find it perfect for my size.
EVA takes compresion set too fast. Urethane, though heavier, lasts MUCH longer. With the full air and the carbon sole, the absence of EVA will help the shoe stay “new” longer.
Regarding switching shoes and manufacturers, I’ve always heard this is a good idea. Different manufacturers construct and fit their shoes differently, so using multiple types helps reduce repetitive use syndromes. That’s the theory, at least. I use the Air Max 360 for long runs and the Fila Flow Redemption for speed work. Seems to work nicely.
Also, are you sure you want a lot of padding for your race shoe? You’ll have a fair amount of parasitic energy loss that way.
I had heard the theory about switching manufacturers to avoid repetitive use injuries. I was curious as to whether anyone else subscribed to that theory.
Regarding the race shoes, no, I do not want a ton of cushioning for my race shoes. That is why I am looking into a lighter weight shoe for my short transition runs and speed work. My theory is that this would allow me to get used to wearing racing flats or other light shoes for the shorter distance.