I just went to a running store to purchase a pair of shoes to get ready for the upcoming track season; this is my first time running track and I am a little overwhelmed. That being said, how do I know which shoes will be the best fit and help me perform to the best of my ability?

Thanks!
Kelly

Kelly,

Glad to hear you're getting ready for track season, and hopefully I can help you find the best shoe to purchase.

First thing to think about when purchasing a new pair of shoes is the event you plan to compete in: Are you a long distance runner or a sprinter?

If you're a sprinter, you'll probably run anything from the 100m to 400m. And while Nike makes some shoes for the 60m and 100m with a rigid spike plate that runs the length of the shoes, I would recommend you wear something like the Zoom Rival S V, which has a "sprinter" spike plate under your forefoot but is a bit more flexible in the mid-foot. If you’re a true 400m/800m runner, I'd suggest purchasing the Zoom Rival M D, as it's bit more event specific.

Now if you're a distance runner you've got plenty to choose from, but if one shoe fits better than another you're decision is easy. The Zoom W3 is a great choice in my mind, because it highlights Nike commitment to women's running. The original Zoom W was the first performance shoe (i.e. spike) that took into account a woman's body and the fact that the Q angle at the knee causes a slightly different foot strike; therefore, the Zoom W has the outside heal shaved down to account for this. While sporting this shoe, you can run anything from the 3200m to a leg of the 4x400m.

If you’re a distance runner and want another pair of shoes, I suggest purchasing a racing flat that you can use for some threshold workouts and for summer cross country workouts. Having a faster pair of shoes that you can run on every surface is nice to have and you'll feel fast when you put them on.

Best of luck with your track season Kelly, and thanks for the question!

Jay Johnson

*Coach Jay's advice is provided as general training information. Use at your own risk. Always consult with your own heath care provider for questions relating to your specific training and nutrition.

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