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Lighter Means Faster

Many of the runners whom we deal with want to be able to run a little faster. One of the ways of gaining a little more speed is to wear a lighter shoe. Lightweight trainers are in a category of shoes two to three ounces lighter than a regular training shoe. These lightweight trainers are used for faster paced runs, races and walking.

Runners that weigh less and have an efficient stride can use lighter shoes for everyday training. The lightweight trainer is generally purchased as a second shoe to be used in conjunction with a regular trainer. These light trainers come in the same classifications as the regular trainer; they are made in neutral models and stability models and should be purchased to match your foot type. Many walkers like these lightweight trainers because they give a performance feel while they are walking. The fact that these shoes are lighter also cuts down on the durability. The average life of a lightweight trainer is about 200 to 400 miles or four to five months depending on the frequency of use.

Most major running shoe companies make at least one model of light weight trainers. Some of the popular models from each respective company are: Asics DS Trainer (stability) and Asics Speedstar (neutral), Mizuno Precision (neutral) and Mizuno Elixir (stability), Brooks Burn and Nike Zoom Elite (stability) and Hayward (neutral). The prices of these shoes are generally $80 to $100.

There is another category of lighter shoes which are called racing flats. These shoes are very light and come in weights from about 5 ounces on up to about 9. These shoes are designed to run fast and are generally only used for track workouts and races up to a 15k. The fit on racing flats tend to be a little tighter than a regular trainer because you put the shoe on for races and take them off immediately after the race. The reason these shoes are so light is because they have no support features in them so they should be used sparingly, usually for races only. Racing shoes have a short life and generally last about 200 miles at best. Some of the models by their respective companies are; Asics Gel-Magic Racer, Gel-DS Racer and the Gel-Hyper Speed, Brooks Racer ST and T4 Racer, Mizuno Wave Idaten and Wave Revolver, Nike Air Zoom Kantana Racer and Zoom Streak XC. The prices on the shoes range from $65 to $100.

Enjoy the weight of these shoes and hopefully they will help you set a personal best in your next race. Support the local road race of your choice by attending and doing your best. You will be a better runner for it.