Get to Stompin'

This post has a theme song! Click here for some background music. Then you'll want to add this song to your workout playlist and thank me later.

I wouldn't call myself someone who is obsessed with shoes, but after reading this post you may not believe me. I don't understand buying shoes that you will never wear, but I do own a pair of shoes that are still in the box and have been waiting for over a year to be worn.

Brooks Launch

These are the shoes I will train for my marathon in. The Brooks Launch 3 are a lightweight running shoe. I buy my shoes a half size larger than I normally wear to give my toes plenty of space and prevent blisters or my toenails hitting the end of my shoe. I love lightweight running shoes. It feels like you have nothing on your feet. I don't want to drag a heavy shoe up a hill with me.

The Runner's Hub in Clarksville, TN

Support local and you can be awesome too!

I purchase most of my running shoes at The Runners Hub, a local running store here in Clarksville, TN. While you are there you can get a gait analysis (free if you buy shoes or $15). You will run for a minute on a treadmill while they video your feet. Then they will check to see if you turn your feet out or in when you run (underpronation or overpronation) and can tell you if you need more supportive shoes. Having the correct support can prevent injuries like knee and hip pain or tendinitis. Here is a breakdown of pronation from Runner's World if you would like to learn more.

The Runner's Hub also hosts a group run every Thursday and has info on running events in the local area. Check out their website for more information.

"I need two pair!" I bought a pair of trail running shoes during The Runner's Hub after Christmas sale. I was feeling a little snobby about wearing my road running shoes out on the trails, especially one day when it was muddy. Of course I bought a pair of Brooks because they are amazing.

Brooks Caldera Trail-Running Shoes

These shoes are specifically built for trail running due to the knobby outsole that provides more traction than a road running shoe. They are also pretty lightweight and have extremely comfortable cushioning. Apparently you can also secure gaiters to your shoes with an integrated gaiter tab. I don't own gaiters, but if I take these out in the snow I might have to get some and try them out.

Hope you enjoyed listening to Nelly. His song always makes me smile and I really thought it was crazy until I saw a documentary on Netflix called Sneakerheadz. Wait, I still think it's crazy, but the documentary was interesting. Here is the trailer: