Running needs very little gear, but good shoes make a big difference to comfort. The best shoe is simply the one that feels right on your feet.
What matters most
- Comfort. Research consistently suggests that choosing the shoe that feels most comfortable is a good way to pick. If it pinches, rubs or feels wrong in the shop, it won't get better.
- Fit. Leave about a thumb's width of space in front of your longest toe; feet swell in the heat and on long runs. The heel shouldn't slip.
- Purpose. Road shoes for pavement, trail shoes (grippier outsole, more protection) for Son Tra, Da Lat or Sa Pa trails.
Cushioning and support
- Neutral, cushioned shoes suit most runners
- Stability shoes have features to guide the foot; some runners with a lot of inward roll find them more comfortable
- Carbon-plated "super shoes" are designed for racing and fast sessions; they're not needed for everyday training
Tips for buying in Vietnam
- Try shoes on in the afternoon or after a run, when your feet are largest
- Bring the socks you run in
- Ask to jog a few steps in the store
- Beware of very cheap "brand-name" shoes from unofficial sellers, as fakes are common. Buy from official brand stores or reputable running shops
How long do shoes last?
Roughly 500–800 km. Replace them when the cushioning feels flat, the outsole is worn through, or new aches appear. Many runners rotate two pairs.
Other gear worth having
Technical (non-cotton) shirts and shorts, anti-chafe balm, a cap, sunglasses, and a handheld bottle or hydration belt for longer runs in the heat.