New running shoes – a real thrill, and it never gets old. Honestly, I don’t know much about running shoes myself; my wife’s the expert here. Once again, she gifted me a new pair that has me excited to hit the trails.
I’ve shared some thoughts about my past experiences with running shoes in a post called “Running Shoes.” That piece focused on cushioning – something every runner eventually notices. Over time, the cushioning gradually wears down, and it happens so slowly you hardly notice it – until the day you put on new shoes and suddenly feel the difference. That’s exactly what happened to me yesterday.
First test run
The “Aha!” moment hit the second I laced up. That first step in the new shoes felt springy and light – an incredible feeling. Just walking around the house, I could tell that every step would feel cushioned and effortless again. I realized I should probably be swapping out my old shoes more often to keep that fresh feeling underfoot. It’s clear now that this new pair came just in time.
Perfect running shoe?
These new shoes are the Asics GT-1000 13. I’ve never cared too much about brands; what matters most to me is how comfortable and natural they feel. A lot of runners swear by one brand or style and get into deep discussions about which shoe is the “best.” But I tend to stay out of those debates because I believe there’s no single shoe that’s right for everyone. Every runner has a different stride, foot shape, and unique needs. Finding the right shoe is such a personal discovery – and yesterday, I found mine.
First run with the new shoes
Later that evening, I took them out for a test run with the running group – an hour in my new GT-1000s. What can I say? They were perfect. No slipping, no pressure points, and a smooth roll with every step. These shoes fit just right. I’m looking forward to seeing how they perform over longer distances, but the first run was an absolute success.
Switching shoes like this has reminded me that new running shoes are more than just gear. They’re motivation, joy, and a refreshed feeling with every step. I’m excited to see what new routes and distances we’ll tackle together.