If there's one bit of running kit that really matters, it's those bits of moulded polyeurethane on your feet. So this week we've picked out three niggling shoe queries from the Gear forum. Lend us your thoughts...Q1: The washing machine conundrum

baby! – cher wingroveTaking the long view...25 years minimum. After finally getting them through university, I can now afford a pair of running shoes again! – slow motionAny questions?Got a new poser or problem that you want RW members to answer

This week, one RW member discovers the trouble with tootsies..."I recently changed my running shoes for a much roomier pair. However, two of my toes (next to the big toe on each foot) get numb each time I run, and the nails are getting blacker

and slide it into your backpack. I do leave a pair of shoes under my desk. – Craig LlewellynRoll up your work clothes in a backpackI keep a suit and work shoes in the office. When I want to run in, I run eight miles to the station with my shirt rolled up

on changing to a midfoot strike using the ChiRunning book. I'm now far less prone to injuries, and I'm running in lighter shoes with less support. My running seems to flow better, and I'm working with my body rather than against it. It's still a work

things you could think of getting are tribars (£40+), number belt (£3+), bike computer (£10+), clipless pedals (£30+) and bike shoes (£40+). Clipless pedals and bike shoes and/or tribars are probably the most cost-efficiant upgrades; I'd recommend

Taffia, tongue firmly in cheek. (I hope.) "Can I wear tennis shoes? Will a 'garmin' work and help me run? Oh and can I pay on the day?" Eternal Plodder tries to assist: "I have heard on the grapevine that a few people are thinking about it, is that any

Get the right shoes and remember to stretchIf you've got the right shoes for your feet and gait, I'd say that the calf and shin problem will subside once your body gets used to running. Just make sure you're doing plenty of stretches after your sessions

get out via the A19 from the Tyne Tunnel or York Avenue in Jarrow, and the left-hand side of Leam Lane is open all day. Here's a map.EEyin: If you're at the tail end, put blue disposable shoe covers on before the gel station around nine miles, or you

of exercises you can do at home without any special equipment, and a lot more that you can do if you invest in a gym ball and some dumb-bells. But the best form of running-specific core training is probably to put on a pair of fell-shoes and gallop up and down