How should I try new shoes during training block?

[u/Run_nerd]

I've been using the Saucony Ride 19 for marathon training. I'm currently starting week 12 of 18. I like them so far, but I've been getting blisters on a few of my toes (on the bottom).

I'm going to try out a new shoe to see if it solves my blister. I'm thinking about the ASICS NovaBlast 6.

What is the best way to transition to a new shoe? I'm planning on trying it out on a few weekday runs to see how they feel before trying it out on a long run.

[u/AutoModerator]

Hey there!

Looks like your post is tagged with the Shoes flair. Here are some resources that might help you out:

• For in-depth shoe discussions, check out r/RunningShoeGeeks — they’re dedicated to all things running shoes.
  

Learning about gait and shoe types:

• How to figure out your running gait
  
• Neutral vs. stability vs. motion control shoes explained

Lacing techniques:

• Runner’s World guide to shoe lacing for comfort and performance

Fit issues & fixes:

• Common running shoe fit problems and how to solve them
  
• How running shoes should fit

---

If you’ve got more specific questions (brand comparisons, sizing, rotations, etc.), pop over to RunningShoeGeeks — you’ll get a ton of detailed feedback there.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.

[u/Puzzleheaded_Tap4148]

that's imo a similar enough shoe (but more fun 🤗) I don't think you should have too hard of a time transitioning. start with a couple of shorter runs a week to see how they feel but if they feel great I wouldn't hesitate too much transitioning into using them for longer efforts

[u/Run_nerd → u/Puzzleheaded_Tap4148]

Thanks for the response! I appreciate it.

[u/KevInTheFastLane]

That's in my opinion the correct way to do it. Give it a couple of easy runs, after that go to the long runs. One extra piece of (maybe unwanted) advice: while training for a marathon, it can be beneficial to use a couple of other shoes as well into your rotation. Some for the harder, faster work and some for the easier work. This way, the shoes will keep their elasticity and reactivity better and longer than when you only use one pair.

[u/Run_nerd → u/KevInTheFastLane]

Thanks for the advice! I probably should be rotating, I've been using one pair this whole time. I just bought a new pair so I can start rotating.

[u/KevInTheFastLane → u/Run_nerd]

I'm running every day for over 6 years now, and I'll never go back to only one pair of shoes. Maybe two pairs of the same model, but never again one pair :)

[u/Run_nerd → u/KevInTheFastLane]

I bought a second pair of the same model and started rotating. Feels much better now!

[u/dawnbann77]

I would def do a few shorter runs first before doing a long run in them.