Running on Clouds

During my first training run with the LA Roadrunners, I had pain in my knee and hip. My pace leader Dave took a look at my 8-month old sport shoes from Costco and strongly advised I get some proper new running shoes. What, me, go shopping? For shoes, no less. Oh, ok, twist my arm...

Now, I'll admit that stepping into a shoe store makes my heart skip to a happy beat. Everyone from Jimmy Choo to Steve Madden is on my bff list when it comes to uncomfortable footware. Six-inch heels? Sure! (as long as they're platform soles) Squeeze my toes to a point in red patent leather? You bet. I'll beg you for more. Hmm... maybe my knee and hip pains had less to do with running than going out in those torture devices...

Top To Top is my new favorite store. Sure, its not filled with $400 blouses and snooty wafer thin salesgirls who peer down their nose when they see a 39-year old, slightly overweight and certainly-not-rich woman walking through the door, but I love it anyway. To be honest, I love it MORE. Waaaaay more.

The sales people are runners. They know what it feels like to pound the pavement and hobble around the next morning. And, they understand the drive to work toward a marathon. They get it. They've been there.

The fellow helping me was thorough and informative. He measured the length and width of foot, the height of my arch, he had me walk barefoot and run on a treadmill, all the while making calculations of my perfect running shoe.

After trying on several pairs which fit his analysis of my running needs, I settled on IGS Duomax. They are cute enough - though not the adorable white /silver / green ones I had hoped would be my ideal fit. However, when I put them on, my arch is supported, my soles don't "pronate" (turn inward), and I feel like I'm running on clouds.

They cost about $90 retail, and with the LA Roadrunner's 10% discount, I can tell you, it was the best "Benjamin" I've spent in a while. My knee and hip pain subsided, and now all that hurts is my pride when I huff and puff and turn red-faced after only 3 or so miles. But, I know that with the right footware, I will be able to run many, many more in the weeks to come...