Sponsored by VKTRY. All training advice and product reviews are my own.
If you’re like me, you’re torn. You have your favorite make/model of shoe that you know works for you. They feel good, keep you healthy and fit your stride. (See my video on how to pick the best running shoe for you.)
On some runs, however, you want the performance of a super shoe. That’s where a new insole from VKTRY comes in.
The Benefits of VKTRY Insoles
A key component of super shoes is a plate (often made of carbon fiber) in the midsole of the shoe. The carbon plate provides more energy return and thus you run faster with less effort. With VKTRY, you can now add the carbon plate to any running shoe simply by changing the insole.
Testing VKTRY Insoles in Training
In my testing, I find VKTRY may be the best of both worlds. On my easy run days, I get to use my tried and true shoes that cost a fraction of super shoes (and last much longer). But, when it’s time for a specialty workout like a tempo run or speed workout, I slip in the VKTRY insoles and voila, I get extra performance.
This rhythm of training is working for me as I don’t like running in carbon-plated shoes everyday. (I worry the stiffness of the carbon plate may cause detraining of the foot muscles.) Plus, now any shoe in my rotation can instantly behave more like a super shoe.
Importantly, I also reduce the “training miles” on my racing super shoes. I use my race shoes on goal pace workouts but VKTRY insoles on the other workouts, thus extending the time before I have to invest in another pair of super shoes.
Shoe technology is advancing fast and VKTRY may have created a perfect solution for runners like me. I’ll keep you posted as I continue to test them and if you use VKTRY, let me know what you think.
Pros
- Get to use your favorite running shoes
- Cost a fraction of a super shoe
- Can be used in any training/racing shoe
- Keeps your feet strong and mobile
Cons
- Missing the foam of super shoes
- Cost of another pair of regular training shoes
Learn more about the benefits of VKTRY insoles and test them out.
Written By Greg McMillan
Called “one of the best and smartest distance running coaches in America” by Runner’s World’s Amby Burfoot, Greg McMillan is renowned for his ability to combine the science of endurance performance with the art of real-world coaching. While getting his graduate degree in Exercise Science he created the ever-popular McMillan Running Calculator – called “The Best Running Calculator” by Outside Magazine. A National Champion runner himself, Greg coaches runners from beginners to Boston Qualifiers (15,000+ and counting!) to Olympians.
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