[Phaedrus49er]

Originally Posted by UltraMarathonerWannabee

My running shoes are for running only. I first started running with two pairs of Brooks Radius. I bought them online without trying them on and I never had any problems. I bought a new pair and the arches were different and then I couldn't wear them anymore. So, I went to a running store and had a pair of Saucony Omni 6s pro-fitted after watching how I run. I continuous shin splints for 150 miles on those. After spending $90 or more on shoes each time, I decided to try a cheaper pair: Mizunos Wave 10s which are neutral. Currently, I use the Mizunos to run and the Sauconys to weight train and the elliptical.

I start having the behind the knee problem when I increase my mileage over 20 miles. I do follow the 10% rule. The most miles I have put into one week is about 35 miles and the pain got too unbearable. I would like to get up to 50-60. I am currently around 20 miles. Between the TNT program and the NROL program, I have been working out my legs for about a month now. I think I will give it another month before increasing the mileage.

All the shoes you mention have some substantial build-up and support systems, all of which actually work against your natural biomechanics. IMHO, you're moving in the right direction but still deal with significant cushioning. With the money you've spent on shoes so far, it wouldn't be out of the question to buy some racing flats for running and some minimally-supportive sneakers for the gym (Chuck Taylors, wrestling shoes, Adidas Sambas, etc). This is a decent--if long--article for consideration. In my own experience, as I've moved to flatter, less supportive shoes, my own injury issues have disappeared, for all intents and purposes.