About Me

My Story: From Confused Beginner to Your Running Shoe Guide

​Hi, I’m Reid Pace, and if you’ve ever felt completely lost in a running shoe store, you’ve come to the right place.

I’m not a professional athlete, a certified coach, or a sports scientist. I’m a passionate running enthusiast who believes that starting your running journey should be exciting, not overwhelming.

From Confused Beginner to Your Running Shoe Guide
Why This Site Exists bestrunpicks

Why This Site Exists

A few years ago, I was exactly where you might be now. I wanted to start running, walked into a store, and was hit with a wall of terms like ‘pronation’, ‘heel-to-toe drop’, and ‘energy return’. I just wanted a comfortable shoe that wouldn’t hurt my knees!

So, I started doing my own deep-dive research—not just for myself, but for friends who kept asking me the same questions. I created spreadsheets, compared specs, and translated all the marketing jargon into plain English. Those simple notes I kept to help my friends find their first perfect pair eventually grew into what you see today: bestrunpicks.com.

What You’ll Find Here: My Simple Promise

My goal is to be the clear, honest, and friendly guide I wish I had when I started. Here on the site, you’ll find:

  • Simple Guides: Easy-to-understand explanations of the basics, from figuring out your foot type at home to what all those shoe terms actually mean.
  • Honest Analysis: In-depth breakdowns of popular shoe models, focusing on what truly matters for a beginner. I’ll always tell you who a shoe is great for, and who should probably look for something else.
  • Confidence: My ultimate goal is to give you the confidence to choose a pair of shoes that makes you fall in love with running.

An Important Note: What I’m Not

It’s also important to be clear about what I’m not. I do not provide medical advice. If you have an injury or a health concern, your first stop should always be a doctor or a qualified physical therapist. My advice comes from the perspective of a dedicated researcher and fellow runner, aimed solely at helping you understand the products on the market.

This journey is better together. Whether you’re getting ready for your first 5k or just a light jog around the block, I’m cheering for you. If you have questions or just want to share your progress, feel free to get in touch!
Happy running,
Reid Pace

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