I'm done with surgery and after nearly 5 years I can go out running again. After a few runs (4) I decided it's worth buying good shoes again.
So there they are! The best I could find for myself : Last year's saucony shoes in a 'boring' bright white color.
It was so gradual I only noticed my suffering after it was gone. My daughter later explained they noticed it, especially the like 6 months before it really showed and a clear conclusion was drawn.
True, there are many different guidelines on when and how to start. I fully agreed with my surgeon for she just said "It's not an exact science, only do what feels right for you "
whatever feels good
That's the only way!! But for hiking boots and running shoes quadruple so. I'm extra weird ..... Long ago I decided on a pair of shoes, and they got me a fresh box from the back. I took off my shoes again, opened the box and tried them. They where close to being insulted. But ... if I have not felt their fit, they ain't going home with me.