Autumn 04 Shoe Guide

hi. i have recently become more of a serious runner and have a couple races lined up. the big one being london marathon but also a half marathon in october. i need to buy a new pair of shoes but have no idea where to start. can anyone suggest a shop in london??
thanks
Posted: 06/08/2004 at 11:26

There's the marathon store in WC2? I haven't used them but I have asked a couple of questions and people have come back with good reports of them.
Posted: 06/08/2004 at 11:34

Jason.

There really are no "good" and "bad" shoes as such. Its just that certain people suit different shoes.

My advice would be to go to a reputable running shop and get yourself sorted with a proper pair of shoes. You're lucky living in London in that respect.

Be prepared to spend £60-£80 (depending on your weight-"big guy" shoes tend to be a bit pricier).

A good starting point would be to look at Asics and Saucony the favourite shoes of the majority of road runners I would imagine, certainly based on the runners on this forum. Dont be too sniffy of so-called "lifestyle" brands either. Nike, Adidas and Reebok all do reputable running shoes. Also dont be put off by brands you've may never have heard of before; Brooks and Etonics for example.

Try to get to run in them before you buy. You feel a bit of a plank running up and down outside a shop but it's vital so if the facility is there use it and really judge the shoe.

Dont be persuaded to buy "this years must have". They are often upgrades and savings can be made by buying last year's model which were after all last years "must haves"

Running shoes have been excellent products for years now and whereas there are now no wrong 'uns, it is important that the shoes you choose is appropriate for you. The wrong choice now could lead to injuries and disillusionment. So take your time and make sure you're 100% happy with your choice before you buy.

Good luck
Good luck
Posted: 06/08/2004 at 11:42

JR,

Although I live and work in Cheshire I frequently have to travel to London with my job. A while ago I found a really good running shop near St.Paul's Cathedral called London City Runner. They have a wide range of Trainers are are pretty helpful. It is on Ludgate Circus, if I remember correctly.
Posted: 06/08/2004 at 21:24

Two shops:-

"Run and Become" in Victora

42 Palmer Street Victoria
Tel 0207 222 1314

http://www.runandbecome.com/

And Max Sports, Twickenham - the husband and wife team seem to know their stuff.
Posted: 12/08/2004 at 06:10