Shoe Testing

I was selected to test/review running shoes for the next Runner's World shoe guide. For real! I'm totally serious. A facebook/local running friend posted the information and I sent an e-mail immediately. I received a response immediately and it was kinda that simple. All I had to do was fill out a form, sign a waiver, and drive 40 minutes north to Runner's High in Metuchen to get fitted.

I'm not a shopper. I don't get much gratification out of "retail therapy" and in fact, my disdain for shopping (yeah even when it's not my dime!)disturbs me enough to occasionally question my estrogen level. I don't mind buying things I need. But when it comes to having to browse, assess, select and (oh heaven forbid) try on, I'm done after one or two fittings. The fact that I'm short but not quite in the "petite" category doesn't help. The fact that my feet are not wide enough for wide width shoes, but usually too wide for regular with shoes doesn't help. The fact that my calves rarely fit into boots that zip up also doesn't help. And the fact that my waist is so small, but I have a big butt and thick thighs doesn't help either.

But it's not all about my aesthetics: I struggle in any realm where there are too many options to select from for purchase. The grocery store. An ice cream parlor. A restaurant that has a 10 page menu. Photo packages for my kids' school or sports pictures. Jewelry shopping is out of the question. I let Priceline choose my hotels. It goes on...

The shoe guy gave me three options: Asics Gel Noosa, a new running shoe by K-Swiss, and these:

The Asics were really calling my name, but I impulsively chose the Merrell Barefoot shoes. I have been through several pairs of Asics. I already know I love the brand and that my body gets along well with them. And those colors! And bungee laces! And they glow in the dark!!! I run in bright pink Asics Speedstar 5's right now. It would be great to kick it up a notch with these attention whore running shoes. My daily wardrobe is so plain that I enjoy a bit of shock value in my running wear. I like to be the "no way will I let someone wearing THAT pass me in a run" runner... But I can't choose running shoes based on color and style. That's against the runner code, or something...

Honestly, I have wanted to try a minimalist shoe, but didn't quite want to make the investment just in case they weren't right for me. So how could I not accept a pair for free?

I haven't run in them yet, but the more I research and think about it, the more I believe this was the best selection. I HATE shoes. I feel trapped and confined in them. I never ever wear shoes at home and I struggle during a long visit in a friend's or family member's home where shoe wearing seems almost required. The shoe guy suggested that I wear them for a day or two to get used to them before I run in them. They feel like slippers. Perfect. These are supposed to be worn without socks. I have run in knee high tube socks for a better part of this year. What on earth will I use to keep my legs and ankles warm? PANTS??? Oh, I didn't get into my distaste for clothing too. I enjoy clothing that keeps me warm when I'm cold, but otherwise, my feelings for clothing and shoes are one in the same. I feel bound and limited in clothing. I don't desire to cause a sensation and prance around naked for the sake of comfort, but I'd be content in a world where I could wear underwear and an worn out comfortable tank top everywhere I go... The fact that I have to make a conscious effort not to wear the same clothes to work every day annoys me.

Anyway, I'm getting ready to get ready for my first run in minimalist shoes. And no, I'm not going to run the marathon in them, duh...