Monday, February 9, 2009

Current Shoes / Insoles

Saucony Hurricane 10 (Green/Silver) *****
Superfeet (Green) ****

- This combination completely solved my severe shin splints. After receiving advise that the Hurricanes might be a little than foot required support wise; I tried a few other shoes. These are unmatched so far in terms of overall performance. The Superfeet insoles add a nice amount of stability with added arch support. My only complaint is that they stain socks and squeak after a few weeks use. Still, these are great and those minor drawbacks are nothing if they help prevent injuries.

Brooks Cascadia II (Toad Green/Red) ***1/2
Superfeet (Green) ****

- I bought these for an exceptional price (45.00) and had read that they were a reliable choice for a moderate trail shoe. The shoes are looks-wise some of the most original and vibrant trail shoes I've seen. Unfortunately, they're not so hot performance wise. The problem is their flat base. Most trails have rugged terrain that require some flexibility for maneuvering over rocks, mounds etc. The Cascadias are completely flat. It's also a very unresponsive shoe. It seems like their design is geared toward smoother trails. My next trail shoe will need more of a contoured fit and shape for rugged off road endeavors.

Brooks Ghost (White, Carbon, Cajun) RATING PENDING

- Buying shoes for their appearance is not smart, but I couldn't help it with these. They have to be some of the nicest looking shoes on the market. I branched out to Brooks and Asics just to get a wider spectrum of choice in the world of running footwear and so far these are my favorite looking shoes. I just received them today and upon trying them out there's no doubt it my mind that I would be swifter wearing them. They're light and smooth with a sprung toe which makes you feel like accelerating. I just hope they don't keel my shins. I'm hoping to use them for a upcoming 10k but I doubt they'll overtake the Hurricanes in terms of performance.