I Love You Shoes, I Hate You Shoes

I've been reading up on running form, technique and shoe technology now that I'm running a good amount. My current running shoes are on their way out so I needed to find some kind of replacement. I'm trying improve my running form to more of a forefoot strike. It is supposed to decrease the impact force caused by running compared to heel striking. If you are interested in knowing more check out this Harvard Study.

I can't bring myself to buy a pair of Vibram Fivefingers.  They just look ridiculous and I'm pretty attached to wearing socks.  Not to mention that I can't justify spending double what I would normally spend on shoes to feel like I'm not wearing shoes at all.  So I started checking out other minimalist footwear.  I ran across a lot of different options that claim to promote forefoot striking.  They ranged in price and fashion.  I'm going to keep a long story short and say that I decided on a pair of racing flats.  The Saucony Shay XC 2!

Saucony Shay XC 2

I'm very bipolar about these shoes.  First, I love them!  I can still heel strike in them, but it is much more natural and encouraged to forefoot strike.  They fit more like socks than shoes and they are super light.  They cost close to what I would pay for a normal pair of running shoes.  I don't think I need to mention that they also look awesome!  On the other hand, I hate these shoes!  The first time I wore them I couldn't walk without my calves screaming in pain for a full week.  The second time I had the same results for about four days.  Is it ever going to get better?!  Hopefully these are improving my form, but the process is so painful!