I started running about 2 months ago and I think I might have worn out my first pair of shoes (which I've had for about a year). Yesterday I went to a shoe store (not a running store) and got a good deal on a pair of New Balance 708's, which looked normal to me but were marked as trail shoes. I only do about 5% of my running on trails or grass, with the rest a mix of road, sidewalk, and track, and I'm currently running 20-25 miles a week.
Is there much difference between trail shoes and other running shoes? Should these shoes be fine with normal running?
the only difference is that trail shoes have deeper tread to help you get better grip on the trails. Sometimes trail shoes have a different type of upper that is made out of tougher mesh, which trys to prevents water and mud getting into your shoes.
Depends on what you mean by "bad."
Not sure what your goals are, but for most of us non-elites, the primary goal is to find shoes that fit the best at the least cost.
IMO, since you are just getting started, I would go to a professional running store to get fitted for the right type of shoe. They can tell you if you over/under-pronate, look at your arches, etc.
Then with that information you can look for great deals. When I got started 5 years ago, I did that first. Then would buy the same model online (since most shoe stores stop carrying them the following season) for great discounts. Unfortunately, I can no longer find them, and had to get the newer model--which causes some hotspots.
However, if you lucked out and can run in these trail shoes without blisters, hotspots, arch pain. Then stick with what you got.
I'd also advise that you keep up with a milage log so you know when its time to get a new pair.
Since running shoes are the only real cost to this sport, I am cautious to go too cheap (ala Wal-mart Tennis shoes) or too long (300-400 miles).
MapMyRun.com,
MapMyRide.com,
MapMyWalk.com,
MapMyHike.com,
MapMyFitness.com,
&
MapMyTri.com
