Orthotics

only orthotics for my work shoes...need arch. 

my shoe store guy told me to shy away from orthotics in my running shoes (if that is what your asking)  they should have shoes for most ranges of feet types from flat to arched...occasionaly one may need to mod them with orthotics BUT basically i got the jist of not to mess with a good pair of running shoes.

"

BT - Is it necessary for someone having foot problems to get orthotics?

Cassano - Our feelings, and the feelings of our local podiatrists, are that you do not need an orthotic if you are in appropriate footwear.  There are some rare circumstances where there is some mechanical issue that cannot be controlled by footwear, but that’s usually pretty rare.  Otherwise, orthotic wear outside of your running shoes – for every day – is appropriate. "

http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/Michael%20Pate/Michael%20Pate.htm

dont get me wrong....orthotics for everday life can be very necessary...i would not be walking without them.

Actually, my problem isn't so much flat feet or high-arched feet.  I have bunions and I'm actually pushing off from the side of my great toe instead of the tip.  My podiatrist checked the wear pattern of my shoes (he's also an ironman, so I'd like to think he knows the sports issues).   Anyway, he said it won't really matter what shoe I get, I will continue to get these big honking blisters on the medial side of my foot because of the bunions and the way my stride is, but the orthotics will help straighten out my foot to keep it to a minimum (the only other alternative is bunion surgery, which ain't gonna happen any time soon).  I've never really been a fan of orthotics, but I can't keep getting this blisters every time I run more than 1/2 hour.  Keeping a positive note, when the blisters are half healed and not so puffy, the kids like to slosh the old around under the skin!  The things a mom endures for her children!

Sharon

Well, I just got my new orthotics today.  The doc said it will take a little while to get used to them and I should break them in slowly.  UGGHH!  The family and I are going away on vacation soon and that will probably be the best time to work them in, when I'm not feeling so pressured to do my workouts. 

Sharon