Sport Today

Sorry it took so long to post this summary.  To refresh your memory, my
original post read as follows:

I got several responses, which appear below.  The recommendations given were
Avia 2050 (2), Adidas Marathon Trainer (mostly for its durability and low
price), Asics (no particular model specified), and New Balance 995/996(the
successor to the 995).  I am a bit surprised no one posted about any of
the new models of 89.  Some of them, like the Avia 2090 and the heavier-
duty Nikes seem to have been designed with larger runners in mind.  I am
still undecided (which is good, since I don't have the bucks right now
anyway), but I am leaning toward Avia.  I would like to have any comments on
the current batch of new technology running shoes out there (ASIC Gel-Lyte,
Avia ARC, Adidas Torsion, Brooks hydro-flow, Reebok Hexalite, to name a few).
I have already (perhaps prematurely, but I can't afford to take expensive
chances) ruled out the Brooks hydroflow shoes for a year or two, even though
their system should be the most effective shock absorbtion method yet devised
for shoes (in case you think that is not true, check out the mechanism of
shock absorbtion used on your car).  Unfortunately, they seem to be having
some manufacturing problems with them.

I might also add that ALL of the recommendations that I got included a warning
not to use shoe-goo to extend the life of my shoes, because by the time the
outsole is worn out, the midsole is also worn out.  This may be true of EVA-
based midsoles, but not necessarily those made of other more durable materials.
I kept a couple of pair of Nike Columbias (the original AIR shoe) alive with
Shoe-Goo for nearly 1000 miles of running with very little effect on their
midsole cushioning.  This is because their midsoles were made of polyurethane
rather than a crushable material such as EVA.  I have been known to wear
through the outsole of a pair of shoes in as little as two weeks (at 5
miles or less a day), so I have little choice but to examine such options.
Since I have never had a running injury, I think I can say that I am probably
being cautious enough, at least for me.  I wouldn't recommend this for a
runner with a history of injuries, however.

If I were to buy a pair of shoes today, I would probably go with Avia
2050's.  Since I am not, I am going to investigate a bit more, and probably
go someplace to try on a few different shoes, since I have strangely
shaped feet (very wide forefoot and narrow heel, with fairly high arches).
Thanks for all the help.

        -- Fred

Hit return to read the recommendations given...

I'm 6'3" and weigh 200 lbs and I've tried many, *many* different
brands of shoes.  I like best the AVIA 2050 for durability and
support.  It also is the one recommended by my podiatrist.
________________________________________________________________________

Being a heavy runner myself, (225 lbs) I find that only Avia shoes stand
up to the pounding I inflict upon them. Personally I recommend the 2050
model- An extremely supportive and well constructed shoe. It isn't as
cushony as say, a Nike air, but the stiff heel support it gives me offers
great stability, which is really what I need. I've had no shin splints
or joint injuries with Avia, which is more than I can say for other brands.
The 2010 model(a bit lighter construction, a bit less expensive,) will do in
a pinch if the 2050 is unavailable
________________________________________________________________________

I've been running for seven years or so, with weight fluctuating
between 235 and 205.  I've found that (for me) it's much better if
I don't hit on the heels at all (I run 9-10 minute miles, usually
four miles [dirt/chips path], often six or seven on the weekends
[sidewalk, but along beach]).  Took a while to build up my ankles
and such, but I've not had any trouble with knees or lower back.
I used a lot of types of Asics shoes, from the Extenders (cheap)
to some of the Gel lines, but they were a bit short in the toe.  
I'm currently using Nike Airliners.  The *big* advice is: when the
shoe starts to wear out, retire it, don't patch it.  More than
likely the arch will be shot, and if you spend much time in shoes
without sufficient arch support, you might wind up with falling
arches (which feels like you're running on broken glass, forever).
When my weight is down, I can use orthodic supports in my shoes or
use new shoes, but when my weight is up, I wind up using Naprosyn
(and suffering a bit).  Take care of those feet.
________________________________________________________________________

I have had very good experience with Adidas Marathon Trainers.  I am not as
heavy as you (180-185) but I am very *** shoes.  (A heavy runner is anyone
over 140!).  These shoes were recommended by Steven Roy who I saw for IT
tendonitis.  He told me they would hold up under my weight fairly well and
they do.  No matter what you do you will go thru shoes fast.  When you need to
use shoo-goo toss 'em in the trash or you'll risk injury.  Another thing I like
about Marathon Trainers is the cost, about 35-45 bucks mail order.  Hope this
helps, good luck.
________________________________________________________________________

I am a former high school track star (many years ago!) , Last June 1'st
I tipped the scales at 229+, and decided to rid myself of my belly through
running and dieting, I'm now down to 205 (this is a different story though).

My shoes of choice, which have held togather very well are:
NEW BALANCE 995s
I am on my second pair.  When I was sub 200 I had 660s, I have had the
995s since I have been 200+ (almost four years).  They are very durable,
STABLE shoes.  After
another month of running I am going to replace my current pair (two years
old) with a pair of 996s (The 995 is no longer made).
My advice is check a pair out in the store, and you will notice that the
heal stability on these shoes is excellent, nothing comes close in my
opinion.  They are pricey at 100+ retail, but you can get them mail order
for alot less.  I have bought most of my shoes from OKUN Bros, and have
been very happy with their service (call 800 info for #).
I personally would avoid Nikes at all costs.  They are for very light
runners, even their heavy duty shoes( and you cann't get the air shoes
mail order).

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