Does anyone buy their running shoes/trainers online?

I need a new pair of Asics (preferred brand for a terrible runner) and are sick of paying threw the roof at sports shops.

Thanks
Vanessa

The only issue you can really run into is that they don't fit right. Depending on your gait, you may need specialist fit assistance that you can get from a running shoe shop. Once you're knowledgeable in your needs, there isn't really any reason you shouldn't buy online. I know avid runners who have bought the same brand and style of shoe for years and years and years, and therefore don't need to go into a shop to try them on.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/12/2017 08:11AM by Jenna.

Yes, you really need to know your size, but there is always an element of risk which you have to weigh up against the savings.

Ive bought the same shoes a number of times now the Asics GT200 that were fitted at a shoe science shop. The first pair cost me $260, the second pair about 6 months later was spotted by my sister for $99 as they were deemed last years stock. That really got me thinking that the top price is more about the style and latest colour ( and paying for the shop/wages) rather the shoe.

Im not fussed by the colour at all - I just want to feel comfortable running/walking.

Something else I was told by a shop assistance in reference to the shoes being discounted was that they "expire" - it turns out over time they will and features wont be at their optimum capability however Im not an athlete and running 5km makes me really happy so online it is.

Any recommended sites for discounted last season shoes?


Vanessa

I have only ever bought shoes online from Amazon.

Thanks Plates, Ill check it out.
Vanessa

Our NZ fat feet are hard to please when it comes to internet shopping. Running shoes are hard to find with the width that many of us have from going bare feet.

I really thought that if you had wide feet, you are better off buying overseas, since they offer sizes in both length and width - I have never see that here, but when I order I have to be careful to look at the size number and the letter that it is appended with when selecting the size.

I find New Balance are the best fit for my fat feet which have become a size larger since my big toe went wonky. Nobody has fatter feet than I do.

Vanessa have you tried the Asics outlet shop in Onehunga Mall?
Also Smiths Shoes seem to have regular sales and good discounts.
Like you I know the style and size of Asics that suit me best and periodically google to see if I can find them at a good price.

I paid $179 from Smiths about 1 year ago. I did find the price a stretch, but did value being able to try them on etc. A lot of clothes and shoes have actually come down in price over the years, but running shoes seem to be right up there.

I wonder if you get the same size and fit if you buy online? Do they make the same sports shoe and configure it to different markets? Wider fit for certain markets, narrow for others - 1/2 sizes for some countries.

Like when you buy Havaiana jandels, they always seem a strange in between size? One size is too big, the next size down too small

So my question is - do the manufacturers make the same show for the entire world? or customise slightly for each country or continent?

I can't answer you for certain, but in my experience, I've received the expected size and fit buying from the US as I would buy here. I think if you stick with US and UK, you'll probably be safe. Brands I've bought have been Puma (not running shoes), Doc Martens, Nike, Skechers, Vans, Dansko and Merrell.

Thanks guys, I think I might take a trip out to Onehunga this weekend, I havent been successful online yet probably due to having a really common size - lots of BIG and SMALL sizes.

Vanessa

PS Amazon UK doesnt seem to deliver to NZ?

On Amazon UK not shipping - it'll depend on the item and the seller. Often items on Amazon (and .uk) are sold from third parties through Amazon's website, and they'll have their own shipping limitations. One way around that is to always check the "other sellers" section on the right, and add the item to your cart from there, then check the shipping. Sometimes you pay just a few dollars more and end up with an item that the cheapest seller won't send this far. Some items are restricted from coming here by import agreements (such as Lego) and there isn't an easy way around those unless you have a friend in the country who can send it.

there are freight fowarders as well such as youshop.

My husband has had success with sports gear from Wiggle.

I also buy Asics and usually on sale at Smiths....often the style on the way out...

ON SALE NOW ASICS - Dress smart $125 (Tuesday this week)
I just bought the GT2000 and GT3000 - good colours too.

Worth the trip

Vanessa