7 replies to this topic

[stats-freak]

I recently heard someone say that racing flats were better for speed training than normal runners. Does anyone agree/disagree? Would anyone recommend racing flats over normal runners for a pronator? :unsure:

[Ralph Wiggum]

Yes

Do a search on 'racing flats' and you'll find the answer to any questions you have on the topic.

As for "are they worth it?" it depends how much you value PB's...

[Sarge]

I bought a pair last year. I wouldn't run over a half marathon in them and wouldn't train in them. Due to the fact that the brand that I bought don't have the support of a training shoe.

I feel that I am ready to race when I put them on and the lack of weight gives me the feeling of speed when I run.

Due to the fact that I don't do long runs in them and that I don't race long distances I can justify the expense of buying these specialised shoes.

[ads]

As a one word response I'd say "yes", but there are so many variables besides the "pronation" you mention. Weight (yours, not the shoes), are you an orthotic wearer? your aims and the distances you intend to use them over are all factors (plus others I'm sure I missed).

Most manufacturers have a stable flat which in many cases could pass as a lightweight trainer (Adidas Supernova Comp.). They also all now have lightweight, stable trainers which are ideal for speedwork and depending on above factors, suitable for racing. The latter may be a better 'value' purchase as far as getting use from them goes.

Like Sarge said, you feel fast when putting on flats, but whether that's enough is up to you.

[wombatface]

stats-freak, if you are intending to race in racing flats I'd recommend practising in them when you do 'speed training'.

There are some notorious pronators who wear racing flats and get away with it. If you use orthotics make sure they fit in the racing flat you are intending to buy. Some flats are more stable than others.

Generally, lightness=speed. That's why my 1500m - 5000m PB's were run barefoot. These days I have a dodgy achilles which limits my barefoot running. I wear a 'light training shoe' for speedwork, distance running and racing. (w)

[Little K]

i try do my speed sessions in them, and always race with them, including 42km. i'm a big fan. if they were longer lasting, i'd run full-time in them.

[Mal O]

Yeah, flats definately are faster for speed training, however I was always carfeul on how much I used them in training sessions.

If you use them too much in training, you can negate the advantages of using them in races a little. I always found that if I'd mainly used my regular trainers for my long runs & most of my speed sessions, putting on your racers on race day felt like you were running on air ! i guess it is really a type of weight training. get your legs used to running fast carrying around the slightly heavier shoes & they will fly when you wear the light ones.

Of course there were times when wearing racers for a speed session can give you that huge shot of confidance as you set a PB for a session leading up to big race too. That can be just as valuable !

cheers

[RunDave]

Has anyone tried the loco racing flats? What did you think? How did they compare to other brands of flats?