Runners - what are the best running shoes for training

[LaurenG]

I'm thinking about a 26.2 mile run (ok marathon) in May so I want to get started with the training. I was totally inspired by a friend running a 100 miler in April. So where do I start with shoes?

edited: 26.2 not 26.3

[JonLP24]

1. I like Asics myself

When it comes to getting running shoes be sure to get the right width for your foot, not only shoe size. It can be very uncomfortable running with the wrong shoe.

[LaurenG]

5. I am a little worried about the comfort but figure I'll have a few months to find the right shoe if

my first pair aren't quite right. I read an opinion on the best shoes for running and they included Asics.
The #1 was Brooks Adrenaline GTS 9 #2 Asics Gel-Kayano Series and #3 was Air Zoom Structure.

Thank you for the advice, I appreciate it very much.

[Phentex]

2. Go to a running store and get fitted...

if you have one that does this. They will put you on a treadmill and see how you run. They also have machines that see where you put pressure and they can measure you for a good fit. Then you just have to try on a bunch until you feel what works for you.

[LaurenG]

3. We do have a store like that here,

in fact they have training classes too. I'll do that and see if I can educate myself at the same time.

edit: To say Thank you!

[HipChick]

4. Five Fingers running shoes

http://www.vibramfivefingers.com/

[LaurenG]

6. Woah - I've never even heard of those before.

They look really comfortable. Thanks!

[Phentex]

7. My son has those and loves them...

I tried them on. They are comfortable but my feet are wide and I feel like they drew more attention than I like! Vanity, yes...

[bikebloke]

13. Barefoot Running

Until last weekend running orienteering, I hadn't run in years due to a couple leg injuries that took time to mend. Luckily, it didn't prevent me from riding a bike. Anyway, when I should have been paying attention to the map, I was experimenting running as if I was barefoot (originally done indoors on a carpet, then replicated) and normal running. What a difference in impact when not landing on the heel.

I read about it in a book called Born to Run by Christopher McDougall

Also, here's a video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jrnj-7YKZE

[HopeHoops]

8. Dr. Scholl's clogs.

Sorry, it was the most ridiculous answer I could come up with.

[LaurenG]

9. That was good.!

Ouch!

[HopeHoops]

10. My mom had them in the early 70's - DAMN they looked uncomfortable!

Ugly, too.

[LaurenG]

11. Shoes: Now conveniently sold in pairs.

Zappos is funny.

http://www.zappos.com/shoes

[lovemydog]

12. adidas

I like the durability and style. I'd wear New Balance because they're made in USA but they don't fit my feet best.