New to running

[goldfinch]

Some of the Brooks "pure" line and some of the Nike more-minimal shoes seem to have more cushion than a lot of minimal shoes. Though if you have a narrow heel the Nikes may not work (they eat my socks).

I recommend going to a local running store and taking their advice. But - I also recommend doing some research on things such as the "wet footprint test" before you go in. Because LOTS of shoe stores depend on that as a test of what shoe you should wear, and that test is pretty much BS. I overpronate (badly) with one foot, but it has nothing to do with a standing footprint test. It has to do with the fact that my ankle bends inward when standing normally, and how my foot moves while I am actually running. You can have high arches and still overpronate as you pass through your foot in a running stride - you can have flat feet standing still but have a neutral gait while running - etc. If they have a treadmill where they can record your running stride they may be able to provide you with better information. Also, if they don't encourage this anyway, run around inside the store in every pair of shoes you try on (so dress comfortably!).

Also, when you go in, bring the shoes that you have been running in. They will have a wear pattern from your current stride. Sometimes that doesn't tell much of anything, but sometimes it can have valuable clues about what your feet do as you run.

Interesting!

My shoes are seriously worn on the outside of the heel, which I understand is a sign of supination.

[jessmarimba]

Interesting!

My shoes are seriously worn on the outside of the heel, which I understand is a sign of supination.

It usually is - but an overpronator can also wear the outside of the heel, before rolling inwards across the arch to the inner forefoot. (Not doubting your self-analysis, just giving you more info)

I'm only throwing all of this at you because even at the best shoe stores you can get some sales people with really limited knowledge. If you end up with a guy with neutral feet who's superfast and races nothing longer than a 5K, you may have to ask a lot of questions to get what you need! Same as buying a bike - if you feel like you're being pressured or they aren't listening to you, leave and go somewhere else. And if anything feels slightly weird with a shoe, it can be magnified as you continue running. Mention it to the salesperson and get their opinion.

(How much more can I overanalyze this for you? Haha)

[goldfinch]

Jess, I really appreciate your comments. Now I have to find a store!