Get fitted. It's worth it to not fudge up your feet/ankles/knees/hips/back.

[quote=maddbrewer]I was just wondering how important is it to have good running shoes? Is it worth going to a running store and getting fitted? Or are shoes from off the shelves at the local sports shop fine? [/quote]

Very. Yes. No.

You will survive a 5k in most shoes.

The more mileage you run the more important the proper shoe fit is.

Good luck!! ;-)

[quote=beads1985]You will survive a 5k in most shoes.

The more mileage you run the more important the proper shoe fit is.

Good luck!! ;-)[/quote]
I would agree---but anything more than that get fitted.

Good shoes, fitted but go to a running or tri specific store. Many of the big sports stores hire young kids (which is good) but many have limited knowledge. Once had a kid try to sell my wife court shoes as running shoes. Sad thing is that she took his advice over mine, she still doen't run.

Even for a 5K, get fitted at an actual running store. Makes a world of difference. Now, you can do a sprint tri on any old junker bike - but spend the $ on some decent shoes.

[quote=beads1985]You will survive a 5k in most shoes...[/quote]

In isolation, yes. But the repeated pounding from training, even for a shorter distance race, warrants properly-fitted shoes. Go to a real running store the first time; once you find shoes that work for you, look for bargains on those the next time.

Either run in no shoes or get thy self to a store and get good shoes. I am telling you that I suffered through years of not having proper shoe fit and subsequent issues with ankles, knees, and even hips to some extent.

I would have to agree with fastdog5. Yes you can run a 5k in shoes off the shelf but with the training its better to have properly fitted shoes. Also, having the right shoes will help prevent knees, ankles, hips and back from being hurt. And you many not know if you are a pronator or supronater and with the right shoes that will make a difference.

Shoes are VERY important. The shoes at the local bargain store are usually not very good and "last years model." This may seem like its not a big deal but the shoes soles are made out of a material called EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate). This material breaks down over time and that is why it is important to get "new" shoes that are the right fit for you. Most good/reputable running stores will have the new models of shoes and usually be able to fit you into the best shoe for YOU.

I say yes and no to this one. I have been properly fitted and bought a pair at the local runners store. The shoes are ok but they are not perfect for me. Now I was told but the runner shop that my foot type and the way I run I can pretty much wear anything. I found a pair of asics frantic 2 at the department store that I love, makes me feel fast and works great for me. So I would suggest going to a store to get fitted but that does not mean that the 130 dollar shoe they sell you will be bettter for "you" than the 50 dollar one at the department store. Just sayn

Get fitted, but if you can go to 2 different stores and talk to someone who works there for at least 3 years. This is because even in the spealty stores they do hire new people that sometimes do not know anything and just sell you stuff like at department stores.

Just don't buy the more expensive one, usually there are others. After, if you understand what the fitter has told you, or if you buy the same shoes, you can buy them online for a better price.

I think it is important to get fitted at least the first couple times before you really know what to look for in feel, etc. I still often have someone with experience watch me run in a pair of new shoes before I buy them.

However, please don't go use the local running store to get fitted and helped, and then go buy the same shoes online because they are cheaper. I think that is a rip-off to the local business, and wastes their time. The shoes cost more there because of the service. If they don't have the right shoe for you, or aren't helpful, by all means, leave. But please don't use them for their knowledge while planning to go elsewhere.