Shoe stores:
A few words about running/racing
shoes: Depending on how much you
want to spend,you can get by for as little as $30 on sale or as much as
$200.
Most importantly, get a
good pair of training shoes with good impact absorption and arch
support
if the foot needs
it. I strongly recommend that you buy your shoes at a reputable
running store,
such as MetroSport in the Oaks (across from De Anza) or Ryan's
Sport Shop (Homestead
& Lafayette near SC University) or Runners Factory in Los Gatos
or Athletic Performance also in Los Gatos, especially if you do not
have
much experience with
running shoes. These stores have knowledgeable staff that will
help you find the
right shoe for you and let you try it out before you buy. If you
know your fit, good deals can be purchased on the internet. I have had
good luck with Eastbay.com, Roadrunnersports.com, or Final-Score.com
over the years. The shoe
may also double
as a racing flat but will be heavier than if you were to buy a
separate racing shoe.
A good training flat will cost up to $100 but all of the stores
will give you a 10-20% discount if you tell them you run for
Cupertino
High School. Make
sure the fit is comfy with a bit of toe room. A racing flat
-distance runners only- will be
many
ounces lighter and
make you feel like you're flying when you put them on, but it's
also another $80 or so.
Spikes are required for sprinting, jumping and hurdling. The price
range you should pay is $20 (on sale) to about $80. Your choice.
I prefer to race in shoes that I do not train
in.
I strongly recommend
that you obtain a new pair of training shoes every year or running
season,
because the shoes
will breakdown over time and continued use will lead to
injuries.
Also, Spenco inner
sole inserts are recommended to help with shin splint type
problems,
especially if you
have them now.