RUNNERS: How many pair of running shoes do you have at one time?

[deadken]

I've been running for over a decade. But, I only keep one good set of running shoes at a time. Once I get a new set, my old pair become my 'regular' sneakers. I've been toying with the idea of owning more than one pair of good running shoes and changing things up either based on the distance I'm going, rotating so I don't use the same pair 2 days in a row (I run 6 days a week), or if I'm going for speed.

I figured that I'd ask here:

1) What other runners do?
2) Why?
3) How it works out for them?
4) Do you own more than 1 pair of the same brand / model shoe? Or do you have different brands and/or different models (of the same brand)?
5) How often do you switch between shoes and what is the main reason?

I think I should point out that for the last few months (6+?) I've typically have been running over 20 miles per week (sometimes over 30MPW). I'm mostly injury free for all of my years running so I really don't want or need to fix what isn't broken. But, I'm looking to learn what works for others and maybe alternate shoes every other day to allow them to 'recover' (I don't wear my running shoes for anything except running).

I've been a big fan of Brooks Dyad series for a long time. They just fit and work great for me. The downside is that they are heavy. IIRC, a running website shows that a Dyad 7, size 9 (the standard size they used to compare weights) weighs 12.5 ounces each. I'm wondering if I can get a similar fit and support while shaving a few ounces.

 

[pauldun170]

I currently have 2 but its not intentional

Have a set of Vibrams. Haven't run in them in awhile but I do use them on occasion.
Have one pair (pair A) that seemed great at first but my knees would hurt after running any real distance in them. So they sat in the closet.
My last pair (pair B), which were cheapo sneakers but were AWESOME are now to worn for running and now serve as "working on the yard sneakers"
My newest pair (pair C) turned out to be a huge dissapointment. If I run in them I end up pulling a calf muscle.


So now I'm back to using Pair A. Still testing them out and have only used them on one short run so far (3 miles)

Running schedule varies but generally 2m-4m short runs (2-3x week) and 5m-13m long runs once a week. All streets with decent hill sections

 

[blackdogdeek]

When I used to run more often, I would buy two pairs of the same shoe and alternate them to allow time for the cushioning to return to its maximal potential. I used to find that the cushioning wasn't as good when I would wear the same shoe on consecutive days. I used to exclusively wear Asics with the gel in the heel and forefoot.

It's quite possible it was all in my head, of course. But, even so, I felt better during my runs. I also think both pairs lasted longer than they would have if I had worn one pair everyday and then bought a new pair and worn it everyday.

 

[RagingBITCH]

Just to say upfront, I run for Brooks in their Fanatics program, so am biased towards them but know more than the average runner does about their lineup of shoes. I say stick with the brand if it works for you. No point in trying a different one if you like theirs. Again, some of that is bias, but it was my first running shoe 7 years ago and has been my goto.

The Dyad is a big cushioned neutral shoe, with little to no pronation control. The other corresponding neutral shoes are the Ghost and Glycerin. Ghost is their "base" model, Glycerin is a bit more plush albeit more expensive. Both have slight pronation control for mid level arches, which shouldn't be an issue. They are both about 2oz lighter and are the "goto" shoe for long distance and training. If you want to go lighter, the Launch is also a fantastic shoe at around the 9oz mark.

I don't know if you are using orthotics or not but I think either of those 3 shoes would be fine for you. If you are worried, go to your local running store and try them on vs going the cheaper route and buying online without getting to walk around in them. Some guys use the Launch as their daily trainer but it's supposed to be replaced sooner (250-300 miles vs the Ghost at around 450-500). I have a pair of Launch that I used for quicker runs like track/tempo.

As for your other questions:

1) What other runners do?
A: Depends on the runner and their budget. In the end, you pay the same amount, but some people prefer to have their wallet hit once every few months than a huge up-front bill.

In the end, if you run 1000 miles in 6 months, you are going to wear out two pairs of shoes, period. It doesn't matter if you stick with one pair or rotate through two pair - you are going to go through two pair, period. It's just personal preference. I've always been in the camp of one pair for each type of run, so I have my Adrenalines for long runs, Racer ST5 for tempo/track/racing, and as of the last 8 or so months, the Launch for speed or even some easy runs.

As a FYI, Adrenaline and ST5 are more in the support category for moderate pronators, whereas the Launch is a neutral shoe. Part of my physical therapy in trying to be a better runner and working on strengthening up my overall form and muscles. I do have a pair of Trances that I was using for my long runs (it's the upscale model of the Adrenaline) but it's just too much shoe/bulky/cushiony...never run in it.

2) Why?
A: Kind of already answered above.

3) How it works out for them?
A: Kind of already answered above.

4) Do you own more than 1 pair of the same brand / model shoe? Or do you have different brands and/or different models (of the same brand)?
A: See above

5) How often do you switch between shoes and what is the main reason?
A: See above, it's more on workout type than anything else

 

[ControlD]

I personally have two pairs of shoes at a time and rotate them every other run. As mentioned above I had read somewhere that it helps to give shoes time to rest to let the cushioning bounce back. I can't say if that is really true or not. Right now I have the same model of shoes for both sets (New Balance 880). I find it is easier to find something I like and then buy two pairs before the shoe company decides to make radical changes or jump the price $40 a pair (looking at my previous goto shoes, the Brooks Glycerin).

Somewhat off-topic, but when it comes time to get replacement shoes if you like the model you are currently in oftentimes those same "now old and replaced" models can be found for half price or less on the 'net, so you can get two pairs for the price of one.

 

[xaeniac]

I have 3 pairs of shoes, but was trying different items to find the perfect item.

 

[deadken]

Thanks for the replies. I kinda figured that I'd get different responses and reasons from different people. I'm glad to learn what others do and how it works out for them.

As I said, I've been running for over a decade, so I have a pretty good idea of what works for me. Since I've been pretty much injury free, I'm in no rush to change things up. So, I figured I ask around before buying another pair or two of running shoes.

As it stands, I'm thinking of getting a lighter pair (likely the same brand 'Brooks') to use for races (5k's + 10k's). I'm also considering getting another pair of the same model running shoes I have to alternate. I'll just need to make more room to store all of these shoes!

 

[nickbits]

I only have one active pair and replace them once a year (about 500 miles). I also have a pair of trail shoes that don't get much use since I don't get many trail runs in.

 

[RagingBITCH]

I personally have two pairs of shoes at a time and rotate them every other run. As mentioned above I had read somewhere that it helps to give shoes time to rest to let the cushioning bounce back. I can't say if that is really true or not. Right now I have the same model of shoes for both sets (New Balance 880). I find it is easier to find something I like and then buy two pairs before the shoe company decides to make radical changes or jump the price $40 a pair (looking at my previous goto shoes, the Brooks Glycerin).

Somewhat off-topic, but when it comes time to get replacement shoes if you like the model you are currently in oftentimes those same "now old and replaced" models can be found for half price or less on the 'net, so you can get two pairs for the price of one.

I can debunk the cushion rest myth. My Brooks rep (our Guru in the DFW area) has said it should take at most an hour or two for the cushion to return to normal. May be different for other brands, but the DNA gel doesn't have memory (along with the other cushioning) in Brooks shoes.

Aside from that, one big thing that may impact their perception of "woah this has more cushioning/feels better" is a lot of people will do two things: 1) not start shoes off at the same time. IE, one shoe already has 100 miles in it before they start the second, etc. 2) Not keeping track of mileage per shoe. I log my mileage daily in an Excel spreadsheet that tracks and accumulates miles per shoe. I know exactly what I'm putting in my shoes in a daily basis. People might track "I started my Adrenaline 13-1 pair on June 1, and my Adrenaline 13-2 pair on May 15th" and estimate the amount of mileage they put in each shoe. If you rotate them on a regular basis, you may get significantly more mileage or wear and tear in one shoe vs the other, esp if it's always your long run shoe or always your hard intensity shoe.

Also something to consider is your own weight and running surface. A heavier runner who only runs on pavement will wear out their shoe faster than someone running on a treadmill, someone who is a lighter runner, etc.

Again, I do run for Brooks so I am biased towards their shoes, but if one can honestly tell the difference in cushioning b/t using it day after day and giving it a day of rest, then that shoe manufacturer is subpar and you need to find a different brand of shoe. The quality of the materials is probably junk at best, and how fast it breaks down overall will be faster than other brands.

 

[VoteQuimby]

I have two pairs of Saucony shoes (Kinvara 3 & Kinvara TR2). I typically get a new pair once a year, however this is my first year with trail shoes. I run three days a week and try to split it between trail and road.

 

[IHateMyJob2004]

One. And when they wear out, I toss em and replace em.

 

[deadken]

Thanks again for the information guys. A special thanks to RagingBITCH for such detailed information and specifics. The fact that your information was about Brooks (which happen to work well for me), was wonderful.

Yesterday I did a local MADD event with my daughter (a neighbors daughter was killed by a drunk driver about 2 years ago). We did ran / walked the coarse and ended up going around a second time after we finished the first lap and my daughter was ready for more.

Since the event was near my local running store, I stopped off and bought another pair of shoes. I ended up buying the Brooks Ghost 7. They seem to have a bit more room in the toe area (box?) and they just feel different. But, since my last two pairs have been the same Dyad 7's (and before that a pair of Dyad 6), I'm guessing that I just need to get used to them. I took them out for a 2mile break in run yesterday. Today I'm going to start off in them for a long run (shooting for over 13 miles as a last long run before a half marathon in 2 weeks). I should get a good idea of them after today (I have 2 weeks to return them).

I am considering a really lightweight pair for just 5k / 10k races. But, at this point I don't think I really have a need for those. As the race season progresses, If I consistently just barely miss out on a top place finish, I might just buy a third pair of shoes!

 

[darkxshade]

I'm a running shoe whore... I have various colors and accents of the same shoes just so I can run in style.

So that said, I have have about 8-10 at any given time, right now:
3 pairs of Merrells
3 pairs of Sauconys
1 Vibram FF
1 Reebok
2 Nikes

I don't actually run with all of them, some I use exclusively for walking. They are mostly minimalist shoes.

 

[ControlD]

I have been wondering recently if perhaps there might be some benefit of running in more than one type of shoe as opposed to having multiple pairs of the same shoe. I think perhaps using something more minimal for short runs and something more cushioned for long runs might "change things up" for the legs so I don't fall into bad habits that are being masked by whatever shoe I am wearing.

 

[norseamd]

are there any negative consequences of stronger sidewalls for running shoes

 

[dave-the-runner]

I buy 3 every year... you need to alternate the support I think so your feet dont get used to it and become dependent thats what I heard anyway.

 

[ControlD]

I buy 3 every year... you need to alternate the support I think so your feet dont get used to it and become dependent thats what I heard anyway.

The cynical part of me thinks that information came directly from the shoe companies ... "How can we increase our profits this year? I got it! Tell runners they need to alternate shoes. Genius!"

 

[Balzac04]

One. And when they wear out, I toss em and replace em.

Same here. I have one pair of Asic Gel-Contend that I use every time I run. They are the cheapest shoe that doesn't cause knee/back pain for me. They usually last me from 5-6 months before I must replace them. I keep them on my amazon wishlist and if the price drops, I will go ahead and buy a pair, because I know I will need them eventually. But, I only have one active pair at a time.

 

[deadken]

One. And when they wear out, I toss em and replace em.

Same here. I have one pair of Asic Gel-Contend that I use every time I run. They are the cheapest shoe that doesn't cause knee/back pain for me. ...

It's interesting to see the varied answers. Perhaps I should have asked each person to include how many Miles Per Week they run. I used to do over 20MPW, but now I'm hitting over 30 MPW pretty often. So, it's really nice to have one pair for my morning 2mile 'loop' and then a different pair for when I run a 5k race or do a distance run after work.

Personally, I don't skimp on running shoes. I'm in this for the long term and considering that it doesn't really cost that much, I'm happy paying for quality (meaning that running is a fairly inexpensive sport).

I'm happy with having two pairs of shoes. I switch up on occasion and now tailor what shoe I'm going to use for what. Long distance practice run? Dyad 7's. Race or sprint run? Ghost 7's.

I *might* end up buying a third pair at some point, but for right now I'm happy having 2 pairs.

 

[QueBert]

1 pair of Nike+ 1 pair of Nike Cross Trainers and 1 pair of Adidas Adipure toe shoes. Each gives me a different feel running so I like to switch up, no real scientific reason.

 

[Megatomic]

I keep three pairs of shoes active.

1. Trail shoes - currently Brooks Pure Grit
2. Fast road shoes - currently Saucony Grid Virrata (these also double as trail shoes)
3. Cushy road shoes - currently Hoka One One Bondi 3

 

[tenthumbs]

Two pair. One for Trail (Saucony) , one for road (NB).

 

[Imported]

I have one pair, but I do want to get a trail pair. On and off runner so I don't see the need for many more.

My fiancée runs 15-20 miles a week and has 4 pairs of Nike Air Max+. Only buys them on sale, so sometimes needs to get more than one if it's a color she really likes.

 

[Wuzup101]

I have at least a half a dozen pairs of sneakers (okay it's actually higher than that... probably like 9). Most are Inov-8's with 1-2 pairs of brooks for good measure. That being said, I have 2 pairs (same model) that I run in (and alternate). I have a black pair that I generally wear to work / around and at least 3-4 other pairs that I wear to work occasionally, or to the gym, or out, etc... I also have at least 1 (if not more) pairs that haven't actually been worn yet. I'm a bit of a shoe whore - but I know what I like and I buy them when I find them drastically discounted (often through the clymb or other similar sites).