Andy Sullivan: Against the Grain
I might’ve made a mistake. I know it’s hard to believe. I’m a pretty hardcore regimented runner. I run an hour on the treadmil five days a week. When I started running, I had an old pair of white New Balance that I used. After those wore out, I had a brief run with Sketchers Go Run. They might’ve been called Go Run but they were not for running. They made my toe bleed so they were eliminated in short order.
I think I went back to my old New Balance and just put a new sole in. Eventually, the soles and shoes got in such bad shape that I needed to go on the hunt once again. This time, I was introduced to Brooks running shoes. Being that these were specifically made for running, it was a no-brainer.
They lasted quite a while. I noticed the other day, however, that one shoe was starting to come apart. I went on the hunt for a new pair. I went straight to the Brooks website. I should’ve just chosen a pair right then and ordered. I didn’t. Instead, I mulled over the decision. I went to Bowling Green one day and thought, “I wonder if anyone up here would have Brooks running shoes”? Dick’s Sporting Goods had them, so that’s where I went.
They had several pair. The issue was, I had Brooks Ghost 10 previously. They did not have any Ghost selection. They did, however, have the Adrenaline series. I tried those on and walked around in them. I also jogged in place. They felt good to me so I chose them. Never mind the soles you run on looked totally different. I disregarded that and got them.
The next day was my inaugural run in my new shoes. The first few minutes felt a little weird. I told myself they started to feel a little better. Lots of red flags that I chose not to see, right? Hey, I needed new running shoes. Instead of doing the logical thing, I bought on a whim. Here’s a tip: don’t do that. My left ankle still hurts.
There you have it: my running shoe cautionary tale. It’s not just running. This could go for anything. Always stick with what you know. As far as a temporary remedy? I’m going to take a pair of Nike’s down to run in. I can’t run in ankle breakers.