Shoes & Sensibility

"You've been contemplating on buying that for six months now." D. says. I never imagined how selecting a pair of running shoes would be as complex as the conundrums of characters in Jane Austen novels. 

I've utilized the shoe finders, compared and constrated specifications, studying the so-called science. After having determined what suits me best, I window-shopped what's available in local stores. I tested what I selected and took a foot arc and video gait test. As a final, pathetic gesture, I posted in Facebook.

I’m a slight overpronator (still weighs within BMI) who’s looking to switch to a minimalist shoe, along the lines of Saucony Kinvara 2 or Brooks Pure Project (Cadence) line. I’ve been running recreationally for a few years (40-80km a month, 2:10 21km PR) on shoes with a lot of “dynamic support” and cushioning, particularly Nike’s Lunar Glides. I’ve been pretty used to a soft landing.

Did anyone of you folks make this switch to minimalist and come off injury-free? Does it really help in developing a more natural gait and midfoot strike? I’m deciding if I should settle with something safe for my profile, such as the Saucony Guide 5.


My joruney within a jorney, my history in running shoes:

So I bought the first pair that keeps my slightly overpronating, low-arc feet within 4mm from the ground, with considerable support and stability. It would be good transition shoe. The box of the Brooks Pure Project, Pure Cadence line promised that these shoes will be the "megaphone for the roar of your run. A connect- with-the-ground and hug-every-turn joy ride for the senses. These shoes are an ultra-light, anatomically fit tribute to the freedom you feel on the run... put them on and run happy." 

Running is my metpahor made physical, and that's my favorite thing about running.  I didn't even read what I quoted in the box until bought the pair, but I knew I would have felt whatever they said and more, no matter what pair I wore. I've reviewed the supposed science and the literature's an inspiring bonus.

It's pricey, but I also bought at the right time and got the pair on a 10% discount with a 3-month installment. I would have had around 150 km on it before it gets fully paid. Perhaps to compensate for the time I've lost in the choosing.

So I say again, or paraphrase Nietzsche as I've had before, I no longer run on worn soles.