1) I have a pair of New Balance running shoes, I think the "model" is something like "470"--been using them about 7 months now
2) I would NOT recommend these shoes, based on the fact that it took WEEKS to "break them in"--had to go through various blisters, rubbing, random discomfort, etc....I don't think you should have to go through all that with athletic shoes, even at the very beginning. Also, one of the shoelace holders (not an actual hole, but one of those tab-things that you thread the lace through) broke not too long after I'd gotten them. NOT impressed with the quality on that front!
3) I've only worn Nikes, Adidas, and Skechers in the past (before my current NB pair). Haven't had trouble with any of those. Am wondering....has anyone ever had a pair of Ryka shoes? I know it's a brand just for women, and I'm curious about it. I'm ready to try something new!
I've never been a Nike fan for ethical reasons, but I got a great pair of Adidas' for XMas and I LOVE them. Really comfortable. Fairly reasonable (though I did get them on sale). They've got breathable cloth and air filters on the bottom to keep your feet cool (therefore, they aren't great for running outside if there are puddles). Here's an address to the shoes:
I wear Asics and love, love, love them. I only use them for treadmill and road running, and incidental cross training.
If you are planning to use the shoes primarily for running, I would highly recommend going to a specialized running shoe store and getting your feet properly measured and looked at. They will recommend shoes based on the type of running you do, your typical mileage, and the way your feet hit the ground. I used to have trouble finding good shoes, but now I know a brand and a specific line within the brand that work for me.
Sadly, right now I'm just using cheapo Target sneakers. I know its not good but I don't do any running or very much hard walking so its ok for now. When the weather gets nicer I would like to invest in a good pair of shoes so thanks for posting this!
Being cheap and not sure how committed I would be to exercise, I got a pair of inexpensive shoes at payless. I don't even know what brand they are. I don't use them often since my primary forms of exercise are pilates and bellydancing and I go barefoot for both. I do wear them for bike rides and walking and they seem fine. When it warms up a little, I'm going to give jogging a try so we'll see how they do then.
Right now I'm using Nike Air Terra Sebec and I love them. I have had Saucony in the past and they were great as well. I just ordered a pair of adidas online and I'll let you know how they turn out.
Adidas. I love them. They have great arch support and are very lite. I also do mostly running on a treadmill. I actually need new ones, but I love the ones I have
Tonic - I just saw your website. How fun! We must have some strange things in common because I grew up in Hillsboro, Oregon (very close to Banks) and have cousins that grew up in Bellingham
Star - Wow.. it sure is a small world! I really miss Oregon. I've been to Hillsboro a lot.. mostly driving through or visiting friends. Its grown a lot. I can't wait to move back to Oregon.. but gotta get my fiance to finish his PHD
Athletic Shoe POLL!!!
