Running shoes

Also, as per the "Instructions to Candidate offered Admission" on the Candidate Portal:

You must also bring one pair of good quality running shoes. These shoes should be designed specifically for running with maximum shock absorption and a balance of motion control and cushioning characteristics. These shoes should not be of the “cross training” variety. They should have a sturdy heel counter, elevated heel, and cushioned mid-sole. It is imperative that these shoes are comfortable and “broken in,” because you will be running three to five times per week up to three miles at a time. You will also take a physical fitness test during the first week of training.
 
Turns out, you can wear them. However, this is for the academic year, not Beast. I would still stick with normal running shoes for Beast and if you really love those that much just bring them for A-Day.

Also, please read:

The Vibram FiveFingers (VFF) shoe is becoming more popular for athletic activities of all kinds. Lately some cadets have used the VFFs without socks, and as such are out of APFU/IPFU uniform standards. The more this happens, the more likely the VFFs will be banned entirely at this institution, and none of us want that.

If you're looking for Injinji socks to wear with your Vibrams check www.backcountry.com (many other stores are out of them). The redemption code for a military discount gets you a pair for $8.10. Code: 49H-1-XMHKE.

General questions concerning Vibram FiveFingers may be sent directly to MAJ Borovicka at joseph.borovicka@usma.edu
 
Quick question America's Finest, for my shoes, would you suggest track running shoes, or cross country running shoes?

USMAalltheway
 
I think they are really silly looking, but my son bought some when he was home last weekend and he thinks they are great. He says there are a number of cadets with them, but no way are they acceptable for Beast.
 
I always hear good comments about track shoes. I have not gotten a pair yet but they look good and I have many recommendations for it.

I would think cross country shoes would be good since they're built for running on a lengthy distance of ground. I know nothing about cross country.
Track shoes seem questionable. I have no idea if track shoes are only good for the rubberized/tar tracks or if you could use them on normal ground. I also have no clue if you can have the spikes in them or not. The only advice I can give is make sure to buy distance track shoes, not the sprinters shoes. Sprinters shoes are elevated in the heel and are aggressive for sprinters.


I wouldn't bring anything out of the ordinary for Beast though.
 
I'm confused. I run track and XC. There is no difference between the training shoes for track or XC or for any distance.

You do not want to get spikes/flats. Your feet will either bleed or get bad blisters and if you run a significant distance you're probably going to mess up your knees.

If there is any doubt about your shoes I would honestly just go to a running store and ask them to fit you in a pair of trainers.
 
Quick question America's Finest, for my shoes, would you suggest track running shoes, or cross country running shoes?

USMAalltheway

If you mean track shoes as in light weight shoes (which are designed to make you run faster) I would suggest cross country or trainer running shoes. These provide cushioning for your feet, which is essential for distances compared to track shoes. Track shoes provide limited cushioning and won't be appropriate for beast in my opinion. I also agree with BAJohnson to go to a local running store for recommendations.
 
Quick question America's Finest, for my shoes, would you suggest track running shoes, or cross country running shoes?

USMAalltheway

I would suggest cross country shoes since you will mostly be doing long distance running on the road during Beast. Get some nice insoles too.
 
I'm with momof2cadets and beatnavy--hahaha those might feel great but no way on earth should you wear those. They go WAY beyond sticking out--like Planet of the Apes from the ankle down. Ask the people advising you to wear these to check them out first before you take their advice. I guess you could take a pair of white/gray running shoes, cut the soles out, and put them over the vibrams (just kidding)
 
My recommendation would be a pair of Asics 2150's. I have been a cross country and distance track runner for 4 years and the Asics brand has yet to fail me. They are very durable, and the support/cushioning they offer to your forefoot, arch, and heel are reputable amongst distance runners. However, it is a matter of preference and the relative structure of your foot. A good running store will be able to tell you what type of shoe is right for you.
 
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