What is the Best Running Shoe for Navy SEAL Training?

We get this question once a month so we wanted to post up this article to help you in your decision.

The best answer is the running shoe that fits your foot well. You could pick out the most expensive shoes only to find that they run narrow and your feet are as wide as a water ski.

Watch the video below as a BUD/S Medical Physical Therapist explains proper running shoe selection, what to look for, and how to get fitted for new shoes. Improper fitting shoes could ruin your chances for success during BUD/S training. Never underestimate this often overlooked area of gear selection.

Video – Running Shoes for BUDS training

Check out the Under Armour Men’s Chetco II Trail Running Shoes

Question: Should I run in boots for military training? According to the SEAL/SWCC website “Run training should be performed in appropriate running shoes, not boots.” I agree completely.

You want to make sure you get a new shoe before you start any long distance training. Don’t grab those old worn out Chuck Taylors out of the back of the closet and go run 10 miles – your feet and shins will stress out.

Pick out a good shoe with cushioning and run around the store to make sure they fit well.

Question: What is a book that tells the real deal about BUDS and how to make it through?

Check out the book Breaking BUD/S: How Regular Guys Can Become Navy SEALs.

It gives a good insight into what happens in BUDS and how you can train to make it through and succeed.

UK Gear 1200 mile Test on Running Shoe with Stew Smith

Check out the UK Gear XC-09 Cross-Country Running Shoe @ Amazon.com

We like to walk or do a quick 5 minute mobility warmup before a run. Don’t just break out into a full sprint or you will be paying for it later.

After a run let your body slowly cool down and do the same with another 5 minute mobility cool down.

Video – How to pick the best running shoes

Questions from our readers.

Question: What is the best running shoe for Special Forces training? We like the Under Armour Men’s Chetco II trail running shoes.

Question: What is a good trail running shoe? Check out this article on the best trail running shoes 2012.

Question: What are good socks to reduce blisters?
I received a pair of the PROSOK Bamboo Socks socks the other day and have worn them multiple times while out rucking/backpacking, running, CrossFit, mountain biking and doing yard work.

I love the feel of these socks and am putting them on again today to hit it up again.

I will be buying another pair and using them on my next GoRuck event.

Question: Do you put any body glide on your feet to help reduce blisters?

Yes; we like Bodyglide to reduce friction on your skin. This stuff works great if your into keeping your feet in good shape on a hike or long endurance event.

You may also want to try out Trail Toes: Phenomenal Ultra-Extreme, Anti-Friction Foot and Body Cream.

We know of several athletes using Trail toes on long endurance events like GORUCK and are having no blisters at all.

Trail Toes review by JSharp: I’m excited about this product! I’ve been Ultrarunning since January 2008 and have primarily used Body Glide to keep from chafing between my legs and to help prevent blisters on my feet. This product is superior to Body Glide in every respect. The packaging allows you to take some out and put in Ziploc bags so you can put those in your drop bags! Trail Toes doesn’t breakdown as readily in super wet conditions like multiple water crossings or in very humid climates such as South Texas. I was afforded an opportunity to beta test this product at The Bear 100 Endurance Run this past September 2013! It worked great. Being a former weightlifter with bigger than average thighs, I experienced no chafing after 33 hours of running. The best part of Trail Toes is this is a family owned business with a focus on customer service and product excellence! You could use this product not only for Ultrarunning, but Obstacle Course Racing (Spartan Beast/Ultra Beast), Go Ruck Challenges, Marathons, or literally any activity that requires chafing protection. This is now my go-to product not only for races but everyday training runs, track work, and treadmill work. Don’t leave home with out this stuff!!!!

Question: Coach, Do you have any advice on getting rid of shin splints? I am trying to deal with them without derailing my training. Currently streching my calves alot foamrolling, icing, and using a lacross ball on my feet but I can’t seem to get them to feel any better. Trevor

Answer: Check out the video below and tips above as they can help you.