Is it bad to train in Nike Frees all the time?

I had nike free 4.0 and I used to train with them for everything. (I'm a runner) I used to run long distance with them, I did workouts with them, the only exception is that I didn't race with them. My point is, is it bad to use the Free as your only running shoe? I am reading in a magazine that it should be used to strengthen leg muscles 20 minutes or so a week but it doesn't say anything about using it as your only option. Any suggestions?





And if you think that is a bad idea, can you give me suggestions as to which shoe you recommend? (I have a normal arch and I prefer soft,smooth, light, and fast shoes)

Is it bad to train in Nike Frees all the time?
Actually the Nike Free isn't meant as a sprinter shoe, it isn't meant for anyone specific type of runner. It is designed as a training tool for the runner wanting to strengthen their lower legs and feet, so it isn't meant to be used as an everyday running shoe. The way it works is that Nike laser cut deeper flex grooves in the mid-sole to allow for more flexing of the shoe and foot. This movement is to simulate barefoot movement without the added impact of the foot directly with hard surfaces and without the more extreme movement of the foot actually barefoot. They do this so that we can build up to becoming more able to be barefoot, thats why the Free 5.0 first came out. The idea is when the feet become stronger, to then move down to the Free 4.0 or 4.5, which will allow even more flexing.





As for using them all the time, I wouldn't recommend it. Very few people including a few World Class athletes can do so. It is a training aid, it won't provide the impact protection you truly need, which will probably lead to injuries and reduced running(distance wise). Also, close 80% of people need some sort of stability when running or walking and the Free doesn't provide any. I have worked for a running specialty store for just over 5 years and wouldn't recommend it. Visit your local running specialty shop and can properly fitted if you have never been.





If you like lightweight, soft shoes, try the Asics DS Trainer 12, the Brooks Axiom 2, or the Nike Span Triax + 4. All amazing shoes.
Reply:awesome awesome awesome. the nike free's are a must for a distance runner. i use the 7.0's on half of my running. but here's the thing; on your off road, distance, rough days, use the nike free's. they help so much, because its like training barefoot. it gives you so much more foot strenght. bad news, though, is that you cant run in them 24/7. you'll get stress fractures, runners knee, any injury imaginable, really. because all that pounding on your feet is just bad. what i do, is alternate. about half and half. my speed days are on coushined running shoes. my distance road days are on coushined running shoes. any time i run off road, cement, concrete, is when my feet need to train with instability. the nike free's do just that. anytime you run on a flat surface, you have to run with coushined running shoes. i reccomend new balance, and in particular, the new balance 902. i dont care if you are dirt poor, you had better rethink digging in a dumpster and find yourself a pair of running shoes.
Reply:i have a pair of nike frees, and after about two weeks i couldnt wear them. they gave the worst case of shin splints i had ever had. i bought a pair of the new balance n-durance 8505's and i love em. best shoe i think i've ever had



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