Second toes black nail

by Yiorgos
(Athens, Greece)

I would appreciate any idea or tip(s) so as to overcome second toe black nails on my right and left foot under certain circumstances.
Given the following:
Foot length: 28cm  I buy shoes at 29.5cm (size US 11.5 usually),
Weight: 92Kg (approx.),
Protective toe caps used for both toes,
Running socks used (Adidas, New Balance, Mizuno, Nike).

The problem arises when running over 15Km (9,3miles) and not with all running shoes!!!
I have noticed that shoes with a high flexibility factor (not stiff) in the longitudinal and torsional axis are better for me. I have run a Marathon and a Half-Marathon with no problem at all when I used i.e. Adidas Solarboost (Model: B96286, which is really very flexible in the forefoot). In contrary, using Hoka Clifton 8 even when running 15Km will end up with a second toe nail pain in either foot.
In addition, Brooks Ghost 14 although they are quite flexible I have run two half-marathons (road races) of which the first ended up with black nails in second toes while the second didn’t!!!
Is there any idea to overcome this problem?

Further info/sources:
https://runrepeat.com/guides/flexible-vs-stiff-running-shoes
https://runrepeat.com/guides/soft-vs-firm-running-shoes

Comments for Second toes black nail

Click here to add your own comments

A few suggestions
by: Jackie

Yiorgos, black toenails can be such a nuisance and unfortunately you seem to be prone to them, particularly with your second toe. I have a few suggestions which may help you.
1 - you could buy slightly bigger shoes, even though you are already wearing a larger size.
2 - wear shoes with a wider toe box
3 - try wearing toe socks, such as Injinji or Vibram. They separate the toes and thus protect them more.
4 - try changing your running form to a midfoot landing. As your feet will then land on the forefoot, they will not slide forward in your shoes.
5 - consider switching to minimalist (barefoot running) shoes. They are the most flexible and they have a wide toe box. There is a transition period, but worth it for many reasons IMHO.
PS: I have not had a black toenail since I switched to BF running over 11 years ago.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and add your own comments! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Black toenails comments.



FTC Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying  purchases.
Learn more.

Oura Ring 4 - Gold - Size 7 - Smart Ring - Size First with Oura Ring 4 Sizing Kit - Sleep Tracking Wearable - Heart Rate - Fitness Tracker - Up to 8 Days of Battery Life
Oura Ring 4 - Gold - Size 7 - Smart Ring - Size First with Oura Ring 4 Sizing Kit - Sleep Tracking Wearable - Heart Rate - Fitness Tracker - Up to 8 Days of Battery Life
REVALI Running Vest, USA Original Patent, Zip Reflective Running Vests with 500ml Hydration Bottle, Adjustable Waistband & Breathable Material, Chest Pack Gear Phone Holder for Running, Men & Women
REVALI Running Vest, USA Original Patent, Zip Reflective Running Vests with 500ml Hydration Bottle, Adjustable Waistband & Breathable Material, Chest Pack Gear Phone Holder for Running, Men & Women
Rymora Leg Compression Sleeve, Calf Support Sleeves Legs Pain Relief for Men and Women, Comfortable and Secure Footless Socks for Fitness, Running, and Shin Splints – Black, Medium (One Pair)26%
Rymora Leg Compression Sleeve, Calf Support Sleeves Legs Pain Relief for Men and Women, Comfortable and Secure Footless Socks for Fitness, Running, and Shin Splints – Black, Medium (One Pair)
$19.99

NEW FEATURE - DISQUS COMMENTS!

Be the first to comment.
Login using Facebook, Twitter, Google or Disqus.

Loading Comments
#disqus_thread { min-height: 200px; }

Recent Articles

RSS

  1. Are you ready for waterproof running shoes?

    Feb 26, 25 12:30 PM

    Running on a snowy trail in the winter sunshine

    Do you run in cold, wet and slippery conditions during the winter? Waterproof running shoes may be just what you have been looking for to keep you safe and your feet dry.

    Read More

  2. The Buteyko Breathing Method Can Improve Our Running Performance and Our Health!

    Feb 14, 25 11:54 AM

    Young woman running easily and effortlessly

    The Buteyko Breathing Method is perfect for anyone wanting to improve their running performance, boost overall fitness, live a healthier lifestyle, reduce stress, achieve easier weight management, an…

    Read More

  3. Make 2025 the Year you Break Free from Injuries for Good!

    Jan 07, 25 08:20 AM

    Young woman running easily and happy in nature

    Activate your natural ability to run injury-free with our "Exclusive Online Feldenkrais® Running Course"...

    Read More

  4. Even runners are not immune to the dangers of sitting too long during the day!

    Jan 03, 25 11:46 AM

    Cartoon man slouching in chair at office desk

    The start of a new year is the perfect time to formulate new habits and new ways to reduce physical inactivity. Prolonged sitting due to having a sedentary job and/or an ever-increasing digital lifes…

    Read More

  5. Everything You Need To Build An Online Business! - Solo Build It!

    Dec 29, 24 12:40 PM

    Read More

  6. A Holistic View of Your Health and Fitness With Oura®!

    Dec 16, 24 07:43 AM

    Oura Smart Ring for Health and Fitness

    This revolutionary Smart Ring uses the latest technology to discreetly track sleep patterns, fitness activities, stress, heart rate, women’s health and more... #ad #smartring

    Read More

  7. Happy to be Running on the Beach Again!

    Dec 13, 24 10:37 AM

    Female runner looking happy on a sandy beach sunny morning

    I am so happy to be running on the beach again! Click below to find out where...

    Read More

  8. Learn How to Run With the Whole Body in Just 30 Days!

    Nov 13, 24 09:30 AM

    Strong female runner running with good form and posture on a running track

    This book has drastically changed how I run. It has shown me what it feels like to run using the whole body efficiently. My body no longer hurts after running.

    Read More

  9. I highly recommend the #PRPocket

    Nov 02, 24 11:13 AM

    Young female runner happy with phone holder

    "I have tried several belts and armbands to carry my phone and nothing worked for me. The belts kept moving while running and the armbands were too big for my arms. I decided to try the #PRPocket as…

    Read More

  10. All runners need to know about this book!

    Oct 31, 24 11:29 AM

    Thank you for this article! What an important message you share that many runners may not be aware of in “Running with the Whole Body.” Jack Heggie’s

    Read More