re: tOfficial Running Shoe Thread

I didn't want to start a new thread so figured I would post in here, hopefully not a hijack.

Background:

Wore Brooks for around 5 years, then Hokas for 2 years, then switched to Altra Lone Peaks last fall.

Liked the Brooks in general, loved the Hokas except the shite tread and midsoles going flat too quickly. Altras would be a perfect fit (zero blisters, tread like super glue) except for one thing.

Since I switched I have had soreness in my heels, arches, and balls of both feet. Initially I wrote it off as "zero drop break in" but the soreness has persisted for 6+ months now.

It is worse when I run on rocky terrain (80% of the time) vs road/groomed trails. Usually pain doesn't set in until several hours after run. Last Sunday at about mile 5 into a 12 miler the pain kicked in so bad that I had to walk/shuffle/cuss the rest of the way.

I have been in an almost permanent state of low grade soreness on the heels/arches mostly since switching shoes. Worse when getting up after sitting or laying down.

A brief google diagnosis leads me to think I may have plantar fasciitis. Or maybe the Lone Peaks just lack the proper cushion for rocky desert terrain.

Can anyone diagnosis my pain and/or recommend a good trail shoe (wide toe box, great tread preferred). Don't really have a preference for zero drop one way or the other. Loved the cloud like cushion of Hokas but they just wore out too fast and tended to lead to knee/Achilles pain.

Thanks for any help.

Pig P

when you say tread are you wanted sticky grip for technical trail or tread durability? If grip from what I've read I don't think the sketchers BRM mention are a good option. Not sure if they even have a rock plate. The Brooks catamount from what the shoe rep told me last week they are basically a race day shoe for fast trails. Putting them on they feel like a road shoe. I'm struggling to find a trail shoe that feels more road-ish but can still be cushioned enough to go long distance (50+ miles). everything is mega-ultra-uber cushion with zero ground feel. Reading good things about Adidas Terrex Speed Ultra. More road feel with good grip and enough cushion to hit 50K if not too technically. Even though I hate their laces may have to give the New Salomon Ultra glide a look but they aren't out until July. Also give La Sportiva a glance.

Shoe-xpert credentials - Slightly older than BRM, can't run close to a 17 min 5k and run trails when I have to which is now since I'm registered for Superior 100 in Sept.

Nike trail..... love hate relationship. 2 weeks ago I threw out my wildhorse 5 after running a muddy 50k. I put 500ish miles on them overall. they have decent rock plate and toe bumper and fairly easy to run in as long as its dry. get that tread wet and good luck. No clue how the current model 6&7 are with the new upper but the tread didn't change. If I see a pair for $50 i'd pick them up again knowing they are good for dry packed dirt trails and can handle some pavement too.

I know several on here really like the Saucony Endorphin line so if you are looking for trail shoes this might be your solution. Out some time in July?

LINK

I picked up a pair of Adidas Terrex Speed Ultras so once I have a few miles in them I'll report back. Back Country had them 25% off.

This was timely. Came here looking for a good break in routine to transition from my 4 drop shoes to Altras. Getting the same heel pains as you described and occasionally a numb foot. I’ve found that doing calf raises and Achilles stretch are helping. Just wondering how long this process takes?

Every time I’ve tried to change shoe drop, I’ve blown something up.


ETA: Currently running in my Altras one day a week on my light day of 4-5 miles.

4mm to 0 shouldn’t be that big of a transition. Honestly, you might be best suited for a slight raise in the heel. I love Altras, but they probably are t best for everyone. No point in trying to force it if you are happy with you 4mm drops.

The Fuel Cell TC and RC Elite are a mainstay in my rotation. I tried the Rebel 2's but ended up with the Clifton 7 for every day shoes because I just liked the feel better.

New Balance FF and FC is as close to ZoomX as you can get. As much as I enjoy my Saucony E Speed, I hated the Shift as the every day shoe.

I found the Rebel V2 very soft but responsive. I found them softer than the speeds but that is probably due to the plate in the speeds. I think they are closer to the Invincible than the Speeds.