By Sarah Turner
MONTEVALLO, Ala. — So, you want to get into running, but you’re not sure where to start. Don’t stress, the University of Montevallo’s men’s and women’s cross country team has got you covered.
Running is a great way to stay fit, and it’s incredibly easy to get started and a habit that can be sustained for a long time, once built up. The running community is valuable to all those involved, according to many members of the team.
“I don’t think I could do it if I didn’t have a team,” says junior Abby Snyder.
The team practices six days a week, putting in between 40-80 miles a week, depending on the person. They also compete at the NCAA Division II level in the Gulf South Conference, running against other regional schools.
Additionally, many members of the Montevallo cross country team are employees of the Trak Shack, a running store with many locations throughout central Alabama. They regularly help customers find a perfect fit for a new running shoe, which means their running knowledge expands to more than just their own experience with shoes.
Because they spend a lot of time on the go and on their feet, they have a good grasp on what shoes work best for those just getting started in the sport. Here, they’ve given a few recommendations on what shoes they think are the most suited for beginning runners, in no particular order.
1. Asics GT 2000
Asics as a brand has a reputation of being a “dad shoe,” but their shoes are highly praised by members of the running community. The GT 2000 is one of the most versatile shoes on the market, and was mentioned by multiple members of the team. “I think that the GT 2000 is like a good shoe in general,” says junior Bill Archer. “People like to walk in it, but people also like to run in it.”
The GT 2000s can be used for all aspects of your life outside of running, and can become a pair of shoes to wear for daily activities as well. “It’s got a good cushion, it’s got that gel padding in it, and it’s very popular too,” Archer said. The Asics website details a light feel and a smooth heel-to-toe transition.
2. Saucony Endorphin Speed
Saucony shoes aren’t an initial thought for many beginner runners, as they aren’t a brand that’s as widely known. However, the Endorphin Speed has a lot of bounce, while still having plenty of support and material in the sole.
“It’s nice and lightweight,” says Associate Head Coach Julia Marquardt, “and if you’re not doing too much mileage, it’s great-good cushion, nice soft feel.”
3. Asics Gel Cumulus
Another Asics shoe making the list, the Gel Cumulus is a really great baseline shoe. It’s not doing too much, but it’s also not doing too little. “It’s just a middle of the line shoe,” says senior Ana Watters, “Pretty good cushion, but not super thick. It’s a great shoe.” As a beginner, one would want a shoe that provided just enough support.
Pretty good cushion, but not super thick. It’s a great shoe.
Ana Watters
Lighter shoes are geared more towards faster, tempo-style workouts, which wouldn’t be involved in the training plan of a beginner. Heavier shoes are geared towards longer runs or for people who need a significant amount of support. This shoe is right in between which makes it a great standard option.
4. Brooks Launch
Many members of the team said they got their start running in the Launch. It’s pretty lightweight and is built specifically for lower mileage runners. “They’re neutral. They have good cushioning in the bottom, and they’re very light,” says junior Olivia Blackmon, “I like those. That was my first shoe.”
5. Nike Pegasus
Nike is a brand that is associated with running, and the Pegasus is one of the best baseline shoes from the company. It has a sleek, flashy design and is very responsive no matter what terrain it is used on.
“It’s got the best cushioning, the best upper, and good price for the shoe it is,” says junior Mateo Lopez-Hernandez. The Pegasus is also updated with new features every year based on feedback from customers and professional runners, which makes it one of the most up-to-date shoes on the market.
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