Hi Ashley,
I was just at the Running Room to buy my 2nd pair of shoes and no sales   But I did spend the $$ and bought the shoes anyway....I'm hoping to avoid having so many blisters this year too!

My friend told me she tried the soaking in tea thing before she did the walk a couple of years ago and it helped, I think I'll give it a try too.

 I don't want to lose toenails either!

there is a Running Room outlet that has last years models, I can't remember where it is, but I think it's in the west end of Toronto. If you call one of the stores they can help. You don't need the latest greatest models of any shoe, you need a shoe that is right for your foot. Make sure when looking for new runners, that you get fitted by a person who knows what they're talking about. Make sure you let them know what you're doing, as training for 60k is more than a true walking shoe is supposed to support. Most people are better is a running shoe than a walking shoe because of the distances and support needed as well as cushioning. There are lots of places to get deals on runners if you know what kind you're looking for that would be best for your feet, so get your assessment first.

As important as the runner is, I can't stress enough how important the socks are. you MUST have wicking/technical socks that you can get at a running store. Some people prefer thin ones, some thicker ones. I know for me, I only wear Thorlo, yes, they are more expensive but they have more "cushioning" in them as they are thicker, and they work for me. You need to find what works for you. Be prepared to spend a little more for these socks, they will be worth it. They need to be what is called double-layered, wicking, technical socks.

keep in mind for any apparel, shirts, pants, shorts, undergarments, socks...
COTTON IS ROTTEN
you will regret wearing it as the body doesn't respond to it when it gets wet from rain or perspiration. You need to have a synthetic fabric that pulls the moisture away.

Also invest in a tube of Body Glide, no need to get the one with sunscreen because trust me, where you put this,,,well...let's just say, the sun isn't shining!!
I put it all over my feet, chest, my waist (where my tights sit) under my arms so that they don't chaffe, and between my legs

Hope that helps
Randy
www.thinkpinkdirect.com

Here's the link for info on the Running Room outlet store. It appears they're have a blow-out sale....!

http://www.pricenetwork.ca/deal/Running_Room_Outlet_Store_Blowout_Sale_5000_pairs_of_shoes_on_clearance-216527.html

I agree that you don't need the latest, greatest model out there.... I want the pair of shoes that I wore 3 years ago, that I didn't even wear special socks with, and had not blisters!! Had I known the shoes would have been that good, and that I couldn't find anything like them after that, I would have bought 3 or 4 pairs all at once. It would have been worth it to spend that much money all at once to have those great shoes again. :)