training in flats

bump

You may get more miles out of a racing shoe because you should be running more efficiently. These things are individual, but I have at least 250 miles on my Tiger Paws and they are as good as new - literally no wear. Be gradual and do not neglect your stretching. My legs feel better with less shoe, which I attribute to less of a pronounced heel impact (compared to regular trainers). Flats are not magic (no pun intended). Take care of your legs no matter which shoes you wear.

I ran lots of mileage in my Asics, they were my current flat when making the transition. I went from the DS Trainers to the Magic Racers. Really nice shoe, can't go sockless in them tho :(. Now I wouldn't go with that shoe, as it does have a pretty solid heel and the midsole is all structured and has that nasty plastic plate in it, but when I was getting to minimalism...man did they rule.

I recently started back running after an injury layoff of 3 months. I decided to switch from Structure Triax/Kantara with orthotics to minimal shoes and no orthotics. I have only been running a couple of days per week and am running the original Air Streaks. So far, I have to say it is a smashing success as my legs have not ached like they did in the other shoes. My legs have felt perfectly fine so far. I would say they feel the best they ever have. Time will tell if this minimal stuff works. My form feels much better and I just plain feel quicker and more effecient.

I'm glad you are having a positive experience. Just remember that any changes must be gradual - just like we wouldn't increase our mileage from 15 to 100 (or at least it is higher risk).

That is the beautiful thing about coming back from an injury and long layoff, you have to build up gradually anyhow, might as well try this too. I am using the original Nike Streak from early 90's (had two pairs of them in perfect shape yet). Would the Marathoner be a comparable shoe that is out today?

Just be careful. If your used to built up heels, you may use the heel as a crutch and switching to flats without working on landing correctly may cause injuries. Make sure your mid/forefoot landing.

If your careful and do it properly, the benifits are massive.

80miles a week in zoom air streak and flying.

I'm not sure which streak you are wearing, but I feel the zoom marathoner is more of a trainer anyway. It is very stable, semi-straight lasted, and the heel height is better (lower) than most trainers, but not ultra low. I would consider them one of the best training shoes Nike currently offers (even though they are bit firm for me).

what are some low heeled flats that you can get fairly cheap right now? i want a pair of the streak XC's but can't find a pair in 11.5 :( and am looking for another options that is of comparable value and price

How about Tiger Paws? Or Wave Revolvers? I'm not sure... I guess it requires a little searching.

I have a brand new pair of Streak XCs size 11.5 that are too small for me and have never been run in. I'd be willing to sell them, drop me an email if you are interested.