Running shoes

[Swearwolf]

I've recently started running, doing a c25k-type course with the local running club. Quickly realised that my trainers, which have lasted years in the gym, have lost all their bounce, and have ordered a new pair.

My question is - is it ok for my big toe to be touching the top of the shoe or will this give me blisters? I ordered the same size as my old ones (3.5 when I usually wear a 3) and while the old ones didn't touch my toes at all, the new ones are narrower I think as my big toe is touching the top fabric. Is this ok or should I send them back?

I usually go a half size up in running trainers. Feet stretch out quite a bit when running.

Well, it might or might not give you blisters - just as your toenail might or might not wear through the upper.

Can you exchange for another half-size bigger? I've been a full size up for all my running shoes (except one pair of trail shoes which are just a half size up)

Oh yes, I absolutely can send back and get a half size up. I just wasn't sure if I needed to! Maybe it's the style too, I might order a couple of pairs to try. Thanks!

You might risk the dreaded black toenail if they are touching. I lost a few toenails when I bought small shoes although I was doing a lot of distance at that point.

I'd swap them if you can and get to a decent running shop to try some on.

My running shoes are a full size up. I don’t get blister with smaller ones but my toes start to go numb. I know you may not want to spend heaps on running trainers at this stage but as someone who started out as a bit of a reluctant runner a decent well fitted pair makes all the difference and actually makes running easier.
I would go somewhere and get fitted and your run looked at in a treadmill try in a few styles and then look online for bargains of the type that fitted. I was surprised at how many pairs I discarded when trying on before settling on a pair.

I would highly, highly recommend you go to a running shop and get them to assess your gait and recommend the right shoe.

Different brands suit different shapes better - 3.5 may be right for your foot length but you could need a shoe with a wider fit or roomier toe box.

My feet are only seem happy in Nikes, for example, due to width and my running mechanics.

You can always see what fits best at the shop and then look online for last year's model - should save a decent amount against this year's by doing that.

Good luck, enjoy your running :)

Send them back, then go to an actual running shop and get properly fitted for proper running shoes that suit your foot and your style of running.

yy knock. I always fit Nike and Saucony (worth the painful price now I'm getting older).

Same as above - my feet are only happy in Nike, and so have worked my way through all of their ‘Downshifters’ over the years. Find a style that works for you by trying on a lot. Sports Direct have lots of running trainers.
If you buy running socks, these are often thicker and so wouldn’t fit well if your big toe is already touching the upper.

Thanks everyone - I think I knew i was going to have to send them back, but was doubting myself! Not being a runner yet (have been running about 3 miles at a time, but a mixture of walking and running rather than running solidly) I wasn't sure if it meant it was a bad fit or if this is a normal way for trainers to feel. I definitely don't want to lose my toenails!