Hi Emma

have you tried men's shoes? Same brand/design (I run in ASICS Gel-Kyano), but buy the men's ones not the womens - the footbox (wear the front of your foot/toes go) is wider. Sorted my ever-so-fractionally not-so-you'd-really-notice squishing of the foot and any related pain out a treat. The only drawback is the colours aren't as exciting, but that's bearable compared to pain!

I used to get numb toes when on the cross trainer (although not running), but would wear the same trainers.  As I was wearing the same shoes I wouldn't necessarily think it'll be because your shoes are too tight. I read something on this before, but I can't for the life of me remember what the article said! (sorry not much help) but might be worth googling it to see what other responses there are...

Thank you for your replies. I have had my gait analysed a number of times all but one have said i was neutral. I have run in Mizuno, Addidas and Ascis's all with the same result. Also have tried On Clouds once but they even worse.

There has always been the normal recommended thumb thickness at the toe end. I do have reasonably wide feet but dont think that they all have been too narrow or anything like that. 

Have you had your gait analysed, and your running shoes purchased to suit ?

I must admit, numb toes sounds to me like the toes are getting bashed into the end of the shoe, so that would make it either shoe size/shape, or gait. 

every time i run i get numb toes, i have asked my physio who said it was my sciatic nerve getting pinched in the ball of my foot but my sports massage lady 9who is a runner too) says thats rubbish and its my shoes are too small. the only problem with this idea is i have had various shoes and it has always been there to some degree. i also try to make sure my shoes are not tied too tightly as ive read this can cause a problem but to no avail!

I am overweight by more than 2 stone and nearly mid 40s in case that makes any difference. i do also have sciatic problems and have had on & off since i was 16.

Can anyone here shed a bit more light on it? and suggest a solution maybe