After an evaluation by the therapist and a running analysis, it was determined that when I started to get tired my ankles would start to roll inward (overpronation). I also had a bad habit of heel striking. My heels would slam to the ground first and would absorb most of the impact. I was wearing heavy padded shoes and really didn't notice how much of a heel slammer I was until I was video taped and played back to me. In addition while receiving therapy it was noted that I have tight hips. Combine all that together and you get a tight IT band and that leads to pain in the knee.
One of the things I was advised to do was to change my running form to land more on my forefoot. I remember hearing about Newton Running shoes and immediately began my research. Newton shoes are designed to help you become more of a forefoot runner. How?
Put on your running shoes and run across your driveway for a couple minutes. Now take your shoes and socks off and run across the driveway. Do you notice anything different? Are you taking huge strides while slamming your heels down first? No. You are most likely taking smaller strides and landing on the mid foot first? This is a more natural running form. This is the way Newton shoes guide you.
No, these are not the barefoot shoes you think they are. They are still supported and have padding in them just not nearly as much as some other models. In addition, the shoes have lugs on the bottom that force you to land in that spot first. I won't get fancy with all the terminology but basically they force you to think. They force you to become a better runner. You feel the lugs hit the ground first and they correct you. You are reminded to shorten and quicken your stride. You can read all about it on their website Newton Running.
I had a chance to try out Newton's new model called the Fate. After emailing what type of runner I was with a company representative, it was determined that the Fates would be ideal for someone like me. The Fates are designed with P.O.P (Point Of Power) 2 lugs. P.O.P. 2 refers to the height of the lugs on the bottom of the shoe. P.O.P 2 is a more gradual or medium height. It isn't as pronounced as some of the other models of Newton shoes. So what did I think? I love these shoes. I have been running in them for about 6 weeks now. It was an adjustment to get used to the first couple of weeks. The website guides you with how to break them in. Basically a little at a time is ideal. You may get sore calves. That is because you are really working your calves. The plus side? Hello calf muscles! I was stoked to get calf compliments by more than one person those first couple weeks.
These shoes are really lightweight. I don't get any soreness after long runs and my feet don't ache or have hot spots when I take them off. They are very roomy. I have wide feet and was worried about the toe box being narrow. But when they arrived and I put them on, I was amazed at how comfortable they were. I did size up a half a size (as I always do in running shoes). They color is also pretty sweet too. Every time I wear them I can't help but sing the "Fancy" song in my head. Just kidding! But I do get a lot of compliments on the color and style.
Is there anything I don't like? The price. At $129.00 bucks that seems a little steep for this mom. But to be honest I will pay that if it means I can run pain free. Let's just say my doctors appointments and physical therapy sessions cost much more than the shoes.
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| I'm so fancy. (Ok not really but my kids think I am in this funny picture). |
Disclosure: A benefit to keeping a blog about training for triathlons is a chance to receive various products to use and review for my readers. These products are often provided for free or at a significant discount to me. I don't receive additional compensation and I'm not under obligation to provide a positive review of the product. My opinions on the product are entirely my own. Some of the products I review may work for me, but they may not work for you.